Some pitches so resemble a desert, clubs with a PA are walking out to the Lawrence of Arabia theme

Due to dry conditions across pitches in Wales caused by this summer’s prolonged dry weather, the Football Association of Wales has released interim guidance to Area Associations, Leagues and Clubs regarding assessing hard grounds.

The guidance highlights a safety-first approach and the duty of care for all those involved in the game, as well as advice on maintaining grass pitches during prolonged dry weather conditions.

Local Authority and venue owners have primary responsibility for determining if public facilities are open and fit for play.

Match officials, alongside home and away team managers, retain final authority on matchday to assess if a pitch is safe for play under Law 1 of the Game.

If a surface is deemed unsafe or poses an unreasonable risk of injury, the match or training session must not proceed.