Melton is seeking answers to why its game with Ivanhoe in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west competition didn’t go ahead on the weekend.
While Melbourne was baked in sunshine on Saturday, players from the two sides were left on the sidelines with the ground deemed too wet to play.
Lions’ vice-president Anthony Gale said from his understanding the covers hadn’t been put on the night before and with a heavy downpour, it meant play couldn’t get underway.
The Lions were due to bat, needing 223 for the win.
“It was a disappointing result,” he said. “It was going to be an interesting run chase with 220 being a reasonable score.
“The wicket was wet and despite it being warm we couldn’t get a start.
“If we had have waited til about 3pm, we might have got on at some point but once you lose more than an hour its normal conditions, and getting a result was unlikely.”
Gale said they were speaking to the VSDCA executive seeking an answer.
Under VSDCA rules, the covering of all pitches is compulsory for all first and second eleven pennant games and all final games, unless otherwise notified.
“We’re checking with the executive and if they feel like the processes haven’t been followed, then there might be a penalty,” he said. “It could be just getting an explanation why.”
VSDCA secretary Ken Hilton the matter will be referred to the independent investigation committee, which is scheduled to meet on Monday.
“This committee could decide not to take any action if they believe no competition rules have been breached,” he said
“If they find a breach of the rules, they could fine Ivanhoe or even award the game to Melton. At this time it is an ‘abandoned game’ with each club receiving 3 points.“
If the Lions, who are top of the north-west competition, are awarded the game, it would be important boost for their top two hopes.
“With Williamstown getting an outright win it means the gap is now only three points, so all points are vital,” Gale said.
The result means the Lions are yet to get a result this year, with both games ruined by rain.
