Storm Dave topples Durham scaffolding, match abandoned
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- Storm Dave toppled the scaffolding platform that held a sightscreen at Durham’s Riverside cricket ground and damaged the surrounding fencing.
- The wheeled cover was blown off the ground and landed in the stands at Chester‑le‑Street.
- Durham issued a statement that play would be delayed and the third day of the County Championship match against Kent was abandoned after a wet, unprotected pitch made the ground unplayable.
- Adam Hollioake said the scene resembled a “war scene” and that a large patch of water on the wicket, caused by the covers blowing off, was the main reason the match could not start.
- Durham were leading Kent by 221 runs in their second innings when the match was called off.
- Emilio Gay hit a century in Durham’s first innings before being dismissed for 11 in the second innings.
- Riverside cricket ground is scheduled to host a women’s ODI vs New Zealand on May 10, a men’s T20I vs India on July 1, and a men’s ODI vs Sri Lanka on September 22.
Why it matters: Durham and Kent lose a day of County Championship cricket as safety concerns force the match’s abandonment, while the club now faces repair costs for the toppled scaffolding and damaged fence. Fans miss live action, and the venue’s upcoming international fixtures may be jeopardized if repairs delay readiness.
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