A well-maintained cricket pitch is the foundation of a thrilling game. The pitch dictates the pace, bounce, and overall character of the match. But achieving that perfect playing surface requires meticulous care, and a crucial tool in a greenkeeper’s arsenal is the mower.

However, unlike outfield mowers, cricket pitches demand a specialized approach. Here’s a comprehensive guide to choosing the best mower for your cricket pitch:

Understanding Pitch Mower Types:

Cylinder Mowers:

These are the undisputed champions of cricket pitch maintenance. They feature a rotating cylinder with multiple blades that precisely cut the grass to a low, uniform height. This creates a smooth, consistent playing surface essential for optimal ball bounce and stroke play.

Cutting Height Adjustment:

A cricket pitch requires a very low cutting height, typically between 8mm and 13mm. Ensure the mower offers a fine-tuned cutting height adjustment mechanism to achieve the desired playing surface.

Number of Blades:

More blades on the cylinder generally provide a cleaner, more precise cut. Look for mowers with at least 7 blades for optimal results.

Roller Options:

Many cylinder mowers come with rollers that flatten the pitch after cutting. A smooth roller is essential for achieving a level and consistent playing surface. Some mowers offer different roller types (smooth or segmented) to create specific playing characteristics.

Weight:

A heavier mower offers better stability and a more consistent cut, especially on uneven surfaces.

Manual vs. Ride-On:

While traditional manual cylinder mowers are still widely used, ride-on mowers with cylinder cutting decks are becoming increasingly popular for larger grounds.

Maintaining the Perfect Pitch: Top Cricket Pitch Mowers Compared

1.ALLETT Shaver 24 Cylinder Mower

The Allett Shaver 24 is a renowned cylinder mower specifically designed for cricket pitches. As a greenkeeper, I’ve had the opportunity to use this mower for [Number] seasons, and here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your cricket ground:

Pros:

• Precision Cutting: The 10-bladed cutting cylinder delivers exceptional precision, leaving your pitch with a smooth, consistent playing surface ideal for optimal ball bounce and stroke play.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: The fine-tuned cutting height adjustment allows you to achieve the desired playing surface, typically between 8mm and 13mm for cricket pitches.
• Excellent Maneuverability: The independent hand lever controls for the cutting cylinder and rear roller provide exceptional maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around wickets and mattings. This is a significant advantage, especially for smaller grounds with tighter spaces.
• Anti-Vibration Handlebar Mounts: These mounts significantly reduce vibration, making mowing for extended periods more comfortable. This is a welcome feature, especially for larger grounds where mowing sessions can be lengthy.
• Built to Last: The Allett Shaver 24 is known for its robust build quality. The machine’s weight offers good stability and a consistent cut, even on slightly uneven surfaces.
• Easy Maintenance: While regular cleaning and sharpening of the blades are essential, the mower itself is relatively straightforward to maintain.

2. ALLETT Tournament 24 Cylinder Mower

The ALLETT Tournament 24 cylinder mower is a powerhouse in the world of cricket pitch maintenance. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, it caters to greenkeepers seeking unparalleled precision and efficiency. Here’s an in-depth review to help you decide if this mower lives up to its championship reputation:

Championing a Flawless Pitch:

Superior Cutting: The heart of the Tournament 24 lies in its 10-blade cutting cylinder. This delivers an exceptionally clean and consistent cut, ensuring a truly professional playing surface that elevates the game for players and spectators alike.

Low Cutting Prowess: Achieving the ideal cricket pitch height (typically between 8mm and 13mm) is crucial. The Tournament 24 boasts a fine-tuned cutting height adjustment mechanism, empowering you to create the perfect playing surface for optimal ball response.

Double the Grooming Power: Unlike its predecessor, the Shaver 24, the Tournament 24 features an integrated powered groomer. This innovative feature utilizes fine, closely spaced blades to meticulously lift lateral grasses and runners before they reach the cutting cylinder. This results in a cleaner cut and an overall smoother pitch, enhancing player safety and stroke play.

3. ALLETT C34 Cylinder Mower (Power-unit with Grassbox)

The ALLETT C34 Cylinder Mower (Power-unit with Grassbox) is a professional grade machine designed for a variety of turf maintenance tasks on large areas. Here’s a breakdown of its key features to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your needs:

Power Unit with Interchangeable Cartridges: Unlike traditional mowers with fixed cutting decks, the C34 is a power unit. Its true strength lies in its compatibility with a range of interchangeable cartridges. This allows you to perform various turf maintenance tasks beyond just mowing, including:

Verti-cutting and slitting for improved drainage and root growth

Brushing to remove debris and promote a healthy sward

Scarifying to remove thatch and dead matter for better oxygen flow

Sorrel rolling for a smooth, level finish

Wide Cutting Width: The C34 boasts a 34-inch cutting width, allowing you to cover a significant amount of ground in a single pass. This makes it ideal for maintaining large areas like sports fields, parks, and golf courses.

Adjustable Cutting Height: The C34 offers a wide range of cutting height adjustments, typically from 8mm to 55mm. This versatility allows you to achieve the desired grass length for different purposes: a low cut for cricket pitches, a medium cut for playing fields, and a higher cut for rough areas.

High-Quality Cylinder: The C34 utilizes a well-regarded cylinder cutting system, ensuring a clean and precise cut for a professional finish. The number of blades on the cylinder can vary depending on the specific model (check with the manufacturer for details).

4. ALLETT Regal 42 Cylinder Mower

The ALLETT Regal 42 Cylinder Mower is a top-of-the-line machine designed for maintaining large, open grassy areas like cricket outfields. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide if it’s the perfect fit for your cricket ground:

• Unmatched Cutting Width: The Regal boasts a massive 42-inch cutting width, making it one of the widest cylinder mowers available. This translates to significantly reduced mowing times for expansive cricket outfields, ensuring efficient maintenance.
• Hydrostatic Transmission: The Regal features a user-friendly hydrostatic transmission. This allows for smooth, foot-controlled acceleration and deceleration, providing greater comfort and control while navigating the vast outfield.
• Powerful Engine: Equipped with a powerful engine (typically Honda GX340), the Regal tackles uneven terrains and tall grass on the outfield with ease. This ensures a clean and consistent cut even in demanding conditions.
• High-Quality Cylinder: At the heart of the Regal lies a large-diameter (around 159mm) cylinder with multiple blades (often 6). This combination delivers exceptional cutting precision, resulting in a smooth, level outfield that optimizes ball bounce and overall game play.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: The Regal offers a wide range of cutting height adjustments, typically from 6.5mm to 44.5mm. This allows you to fine-tune the outfield’s grass length for optimal playing conditions.