Laws of Cricket 1980 Code - Law 7

Law 7 - The Pitch

1. Area of Pitch

The pitch is the area between the bowling creases - see Law 9 (The Bowling and Popping Creases). It shall measure 5 ft/1.52m in width on either side of a line joining the centre of the middle stumps of the wickets - see Law 8 (The Wickets).

2. Selection and Preparation

Before the toss for innings, the Executive of the Ground shall be responsible for the selection and preparation of the pitch; thereafter the umpires shall control its use and maintenance.

3. Changing the Pitch

The pitch shall not be changed during a match unless it becomes unfit for play, and then only with the consent of both captains.

4. Non-Turf Pitches

In the event of a non-turf pitch being used, the following shall apply:

1. Length: That of the playing surface to a minimum of 58ft/17.68m
2. Width: That of the playing surface to a minimum of 6ft/1.83m

See Law 10 (Rolling, Sweeping, Mowing, Watering the Pitch and Re-marking of Creases) Note (a).

Reproduction of the Laws of Cricket is by kind permission of Marylebone Cricket Club

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