BCB eyes introduction of hybrid wickets across venues

Bangla Press Desk:  The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is planning to introduce hybrid wickets at most major cricket venues and practice facilities across the country as part of a long-term strategy to improve pitch quality and reduce maintenance costs.

A hybrid wicket — often called a “stitched wicket” — is a natural grass surface reinforced with synthetic fibres stitched vertically into the soil. The blend creates a more durable and stable playing surface, offering greater consistency in bounce, pace, and drainage. It also allows quicker recovery after matches, making it particularly suitable for venues that host frequent cricket.

Hybrid technology has already gained popularity in several leading cricket nations, particularly in England, where it is widely used in white-ball competitions. During the last English summer, a County Championship match was played on a hybrid wicket for the first time — a landmark moment that underscored the growing acceptance of the innovation. “In Barishal, we’re already installing one,” a BCB official told Daily Sun. “We will also set up hybrid wickets in Mirpur and at the BCB Academy ground. Eventually, the plan is to bring the same technology to every major venue in the country. President Bulbul bhai is also very keen on this initiative.”

“The good thing about hybrid pitches is the low maintenance cost. Natural wickets require a lot of rolling, watering, and repair work to keep them in top condition. Hybrid wickets don’t break down as easily, so players can train and play on them repeatedly,” he added.

The BCB is currently in discussions with an Australian company based at Brisbane’s Gabba, which had earlier assisted the board in installing turf wickets at its academy.

“We’re now exploring hybrid technology with them, and if the trials go well, this could change the way domestic cricket is played and practised in Bangladesh,” the official concluded.

BP/SP