The Anglian Combination League has called off the opening weekend of its 2026/27 season, pushing the first fixtures back to 29 August. The decision follows a series of pre‑season matches that were marred by dangerous, rock‑hard pitches.
July 2024 has become the driest and hottest month on record for East Anglia, with temperatures climbing to 36 °C and rainfall amounts barely registering on the gauges. The parched conditions have turned many grass surfaces into compacted earth, raising the risk of player injuries.
League chair Dale Brown explained that the safety of participants was the decisive factor, noting that the unanimous vote reflected the extreme dryness that has left the playing surfaces dangerously hard.
Safety first as climate pressures mount
The postponement underscores a growing trend of sports organisations having to adapt to environmental stresses, and it may serve as a template for other leagues facing similar challenges.