Cricket Ireland has today confirmed Phil Frost, head groundsman at Malahide Cricket Club, has been flown home to England temporarily, after a decision taken by the Executive of Malahide Cricket Club to close the facility.
The highly-respected groundsman is employed by Cricket Ireland to maintain Ireland’s leading international cricket venue.
Warren Deutrom, Chief Executive of Cricket Ireland, said:
“Our foremost thoughts are to ensure the health and safety of our people, and of course to follow Government advice. In that regard, we were still investigating whether Phil remaining at Malahide during the crisis – given the solo nature of his role – was consistent with current government guidance. However, on Monday evening the Malahide Cricket Club Executive advised Cricket Ireland of the complete closure of the Club and its facilities.”
“While we note that Malahide Cricket Club is “making alternative arrangements to ensure upkeep of the grounds” while closed, we shall continue to monitor the state of readiness of the ground to host international cricket once restrictions are lifted, and will liaise with the club accordingly in the coming weeks.”
“Phil is a highly respected groundsman who does an outstanding job, and remains a valued member of Cricket Ireland staff. In that regard, we have subsequently arranged and paid for Phil to return home to England this morning and we will remain in regular communication with him, until conditions allow for his return.”
“We continue to consult with relevant government and sporting bodies, as well as other cricket boards and governing bodies of other Irish sports over the best ways to manage our operations during these challenging times.”
Cricket Ireland will continue to provide updates to the cricket community throughout this crisis, and work with stakeholders within the game to manage through these unprecedented times.
Craig Easdown
Phil Frost has been temporarily repatriated home
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Connaught
