That old scenario:- What do we do when things cloud over, a few spits of rain are felt and one side classifies the weather as almost unplayable (the other team don't even notice the change of conditions). May I suggest a few tips and procedures that might help the afternoon run more smoothly.

1. a) When you and your colleague have decided to go off it is crucial to record several important facts.
2. b) The "correct "score. It is important to speak to the scorers to confirm this as often the score on the board isn't always up to date.
3. c) The wickets and the stage of the game the interruption occurred i.e. 64 for 3 in 23.3overs.If you can try and get through to the end of the over as long as conditions allow.( it makes things a little simpler).
4. d) Who is bowling ,if mid over ,or who bowled the last over and at which end.
5. e) Which batsman is facing when play commences.
6. f) The exact time that play stopped.
7. g) Make sure that the match ball is in your procession

When off the field

Use the time wisely.

1. (a) Constantly (with colleague) monitor the conditions and any changes that are occurring. Do this without any interference from the teams or club officials, although it is often very beneficial to chat to the grounds man (if available).
2. (b) Do calculations bearing in mind the 30mins of allowed time e.g. If play was to start in 45mins time what would the length of the game be reduced to (45-30=15mins lost time i.e.1st inns 1 over lost . This is worth repeating for a number of scenarios as when asked by the players it is seen as good practice to be ahead of the game.
3. (c) If the same scenario happened in the 2nd inns then there would be a loss of 3 overs ie. 15mins=3x4.
4. (d) Players like to know that if eg. play is to start@ 3-45pm then it will be a 42 over game @4-05pm-37 over game and so on.(2nd inns).
5. (e) When play is to resume leave enough time to give details to scorers and get print out for all parties. Ensure that this is correct and relevant parties receive the print out
6. (f) Check the print out BUT leave the print out behind and never bring it onto the field.
7. (g) With overs lost then bowlers allowances and power plays will be affected. Check these and confirm these with your colleague and inform all relevant parties.(captains, batsmen at the crease, and scorers)
8. (h) When you and your colleague decide to resume ensure the state of the game has no bearing on your decision, and overhead conditions are correct.
9. (i) Always be fair and impartial. Hopefully these few steps might make the wet day a little less painful.