21st March 2023
| Victoria Jones
With the commencement of #GroundsWeek, we celebrate the work of ground teams across Wales who help make cricket possible. Cricket Wales are delighted with the extension of the Ground Management Associations’ Pitch Advisory Service with the introduction of Iestyn John, Regional Pitch Advisor for Cricket within Wales.
The Pitch Advisory Service aims to raise the standards of sports surfaces as well as the understanding of sports turf management practices among grassroots clubs.
Iestyn brings a wealth of experience to the Regional Pitch Advisor’s role, through his professional background in grounds management and as East Wales County Pitch Advisor where he provided guidance for cricket club volunteers on preparing and maintaining grounds.
Iestyn’s key focus will be working with the volunteer network in Wales, providing support and guidance, supporting the Cricket Wales facility strategy, promoting and delivering a range of educational opportunities associated with grounds management and supporting the role out of Pitch Power.
PitchPower on is a revolutionary web app for inspecting and improving grass pitches. Using a mobile phone or tablet, a pitch inspection can be completed at the touch of a button. The web app is due for release later this year.
Cricket Wales are grateful for the commitment that the ECB have given to the Ground Management Associations’ Pitch Advisory Service. The specific, tailored role will provide cricket clubs throughout Wales access to specialist skills to support the dedicated volunteer workforce.
Cricket Wales caught up with Iestyn at a recent ground advisory workshop. You can see Iestyn’s short interview here.
Speaking of his appointment, Iestyn said, “I have always been passionate about trying to improve grassroots facilities within Wales.” “The role covers the whole of Wales, with the aim to improve grassroots facilities across Wales and increase participation through improved facilities.”
Initially Iestyn will roll out a grassroots training programme for volunteers across Wales and providing a network of support across the sport for ground management staff.
For more information about #GroundsWeek, and how to get involved with the week, visit https://thegma.org.uk/groundsweek
Victoria Jones, Facilities Investment Manager at Cricket Wales said “Iestyn’s addition to the Pitch Advisory Service is a huge asset for cricket within Wales. His support and knowledge will provide specialist support for ground managers throughout the country. I extend my gratitude to the GMA and ECB for their continued commitment to support facilities within Wales.”
Key Ground Management contacts can be found here or contact Iestyn John through GMA/ECB Pitch Advisory Service [email protected]