Tanya Aldred in The Guardian reflects that after four bumper years, the lousy weather has hit the rollercoaster success of the Twenty20 Cup.
This year, things have soured. Divine retribution may have been a long time coming, but the rain hasn't stopped. The ECB hired four extra Super Sopper machines but still the matches are called off. Counties face a torrent of refunds and an equally unattractive administrative mountain. Umpires have asked for more protection - Peter Willey has spoken of getting in "professional security". The Hampshire bus was stoned and the players abused at Southgate, and the Middlesex players were relieved of their wallets. A combination of rain and alcohol has brought out the inner oik in some spectators. The ECB have pledged to act.
They need to or they are going to lose the very constituency that Twenty20 was invented to attract. While the liveliness of Twenty20 crowds is intoxicating, sitting next to drunken yobs, convinced that their chants are up there with Dorothy Parker's best bon mots, is no fun for anyone. It is no fun sitting even three stands away.
In The Times, David Fulton, who retired at the end of last season, highlights the problems that the weather causes for the players.
Not knowing whether a game will start is mentally draining. Most professional players will have set warm-ups and routines to follow before the battle commences. When time is of the essence, though, as is the case with a rain delay in Twenty20, umpires can start or resume play at a moment’s notice.
The trick is not to be caught off guard. While there is no point all eleven players staring out the window waiting for the rain to stop, it’s important that you want to get out there and that you’re mind is ready for any scenario. There is a danger that players enjoy rain just a little too much. In the context of a long season, where the aching joints need a rest, this is understandable. Getting paid to play cards with your mates can also seem more appealing than having to stick your neck out and perform in front of a crowd and the media spotlight. Psychologically, it’s important you don’t let your mind get lazy.
