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Bracewell On New Roller Rule

12 December 2013

John Bracewell believes the new heavy roller rule and how club’s use it could have an important impact on the outcome of LV=County Championship matches next season.

A change in the laws means that it will be up to the home team whether or not to employ the heavy roller between innings.

Gloucestershire’s Director of Cricket admits he is not sure yet what policy will be employed at Bristol and says it could well change from game to game.

John told this website: “The heavy roller can now be used in a match, but only if it is made available by the host county.

“The home side make the decision on whether it is available or not. If it is, both teams are allowed to use it once.

“That may well have some strategic value, particularly in the early part of the season and depending what sort of Spring we have.

“If it has been dry, the wickets will be firmer and there will be less indentations made in the pitch by the ball.

“I’m pleased we have a home game against Cardiff MCCU before our opening Championship game against Hampshire at the County Ground because that will enable us to assess our pitches and the effect of the heavy roller upon them.

“As well as the weather, our use of it may well depend on the strengths and weaknesses of our opponents so the policy may alter from match to match.

“It is something we shall have to give a lot of thought to and take a decision at the start of each home game.”

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