Artificial cricket wicket installation in Essex

Overview

Our client wanted a back garden cricket wicket for their son that would combine a consistent bounce with a low-maintenance surface that could be used in – and could withstand – all weathers. The original lawn was damaged and had become unsuitable for the existing matting due to heavy use and practice sessions, as well as the impact of the British weather. As a result, it became increasingly difficult to play on.

We supplied our T10 Artificial Grass Wicket and Interplay 5mm Shockpad to help our client’s son improve his game.

The problem

The lawn needed to be suitable for cricket practice in all weathers, which wasn’t possible with the natural lawn. As well as this, the existing matt was laid on an uneven surface, resulting in inconsistent bounce and difficult play.

The solution

With all-weather play as the goal, we supplied our T10 Artificial Grass Wicket with the Interplay 5mm Shockpad. This created a free-draining, ultra-durable surface with a consistent bounce. Professionally installed by our sister company Artificial Lawn Company.

The method

Installing a cricket wicket involves a slightly different process from standard installation methods, and includes a number of steps:

The area is marked out and the levels assessed.
Excavation to approximately 100-150mm (depending on the soil type).
Installation of a 100mm x 50mm pressure-treated timber frame, which is set to accurate levels. You can use composite timbers as well if preferred.
Fill the frame with MOT type one, levelling accurately and compacting with a wacker plate, until we’re about 40mm from the top of the frame.
Fill the remaining 40mm with 6mm to dust limestone, accurately levelling and wetting prior to compacting.
Rake to remove ridges or imperfections before laying the cricket underlay, tacking it lightly into place with galvanised nails that are driven into the stone base.
Cover the timber frame with artificial grass. Tack one end with galvanised flat-head nails and gently stretch the other end while nailing up the sides to prevent creases or ripples.
Mark out the play creases using masking tape and white spray paint.

We have more tips and tricks in our DIY guide – give us a call to find out more.

The result

Our client was left with the ideal back garden cricket wicket that’s suitable for practice in all weathers. The natural lawn around it now has time to recover and grow back to the perimeter of the wicket, resulting in a neat finish.

If you’d like more information on the artificial cricket products we supply or the installation service offered by the team at Artificial Lawn Company, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and speak to a member of our team today. We also have a comprehensive DIY guide if you’d like to create your own wicket.