In a strange turn of events at the Maple Leaf North-West Ground in King City, Ontario, Canada, ground staff set the cricket pitch on fire to dry it after heavy rain delayed the start of the ICC World Cup League 2 match between Scotland and Namibia on August 29, 2025. The unusual method drew attention from players and fans, but the game was eventually abandoned without a ball bowled due to ongoing wet conditions.
This incident highlights the challenges of outdoor sports in unpredictable weather, especially in a key tournament for World Cup qualification. As teams battle for points in the league, such delays can impact standings and momentum.
The Rain Delay and Bizarre Drying Attempt
Heavy showers hit the venue early, pushing back the toss and start time multiple times. Inspections happened throughout the day, with officials checking the outfield and pitch for playability.
Ground staff tried standard methods first, like covers and super soppers, but the dampness lingered. In a surprising move, they lit small fires on parts of the pitch to speed up drying. Players from both sides watched in disbelief as flames flickered briefly before being put out.
This tactic, though rare, has roots in some grassroots cricket where fire helps evaporate moisture from grass or soil. Experts note it carries risks, like uneven surfaces or damage to the turf.
Photos and videos spread quickly online, showing smoke rising from the pitch while team members stood nearby. The method aimed to reduce wetness but could not fully prepare the field in time.
Why the Match Could Not Proceed
Despite efforts, conditions stayed too wet for safe play. The latest possible start was set for 9:02 pm local time, which meant around 2:02 am GMT on August 30.
Umpires called off the game after final checks, marking it as abandoned. No points were awarded, a blow for both teams in the tight league race.
Weather forecasts had warned of rain, but the intensity caught organizers off guard. This venue has seen similar issues before, raising questions about hosting international matches in variable climates.
- Key delays: Toss pushed from morning to late afternoon, with inspections at 4:45 pm, 5:30 pm, 7:30 pm, and 8:30 pm UK time.
- Latest start time: 9:02 pm local, allowing for a reduced overs game if conditions improved.
- Outcome: Full abandonment, no play possible.
Impact on Teams and League Standings
Scotland and Namibia are fighting for top spots in the ICC World Cup League 2, which runs from 2023 to 2027 and offers paths to the 2027 Cricket World Cup. This match was number 81 in the series, crucial for points.
Scotland entered with strong form, having won recent games, including a 138-run victory over Namibia in July 2024. Namibia aimed to bounce back but now faces added pressure.
The no-result leaves both with shared points, but it disrupts schedules. Scotland plays Canada next on August 31, while Namibia meets Canada earlier.
Here’s a quick look at the current top standings in the ICC World Cup League 2 as of August 30, 2025:
| Team | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | Points | Net Run Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netherlands | 24 | 15 | 7 | 32 | 0.85 |
| Scotland | 22 | 14 | 6 | 30 | 0.72 |
| Oman | 23 | 13 | 8 | 28 | 0.45 |
| Namibia | 21 | 10 | 9 | 22 | 0.12 |
| Canada | 20 | 9 | 9 | 20 | -0.10 |
These standings show Scotland holding second place, with Namibia in fourth. Every point matters for qualification spots.
Reactions from Players, Fans, and Experts
Social media buzzed with reactions, from amusement to concern over safety. Fans posted memes and questions about the fire method’s effectiveness.
Players expressed frustration but understood the weather’s role. Scotland’s team shared updates on delays, noting the disappointment of no play.
Cricket analysts praised the ground staff’s creativity but called for better facilities. Some compared it to past incidents, like rain-affected games in other leagues.
One expert pointed out that while fire drying is not standard in professional cricket, it shows desperation to get the game on. Fans worried about player safety on a treated pitch.
Background on the Tournament and Venue
The ICC World Cup League 2 features associate nations competing in one-day internationals for World Cup spots. It replaced older formats to give more teams exposure.
Canada hosts this tri-series leg, including matches against the home side. The Maple Leaf Ground has hosted internationals since the 2000s but faces criticism for drainage issues.
Recent events, like a Canada-Namibia game on August 27, went ahead despite weather threats, showing variability. Teams adapt, but such abandonments highlight needs for improved infrastructure.
This incident adds to cricket’s quirky history, from animal invasions to weather woes, keeping the sport unpredictable.
What do you think about this unusual pitch-drying method? Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread the word to fellow cricket fans.
