What is the Weather Forecast for Major League Cricket?
The inaugural Major League Cricket (MLC) tournament will take place in July 2023 in Grand Prairie, Texas. Many see the event as a trial run for the ICC World Cup in 2024, which will be jointly held between the USA and the West Indies.
It is the first time a cricket event of this magnitude will take centre stage during the summer months in the USA, and there are many unknowns to an international audience.
One of the main points of interest will be the conditions in the field and on the pitch. How will the weather affect the wicket? What is the average temperature in Texas during July? Will bowlers or batters be the big winners?
Take a look at our complete analysis of the weather in Grand Prairie through July below.
It Gets Hot. Very Hot.
In Grand Prairie, the average temperature in July is around 88°F (31°C) with an average low of 75°F (24°C). The average precipitation fall during this month is 3.2 inches (8.1 cm). The sun sets at approximately 8:30 PM each night. July is typically a warm month in Grand Prairie, so players on the pitch and the onlooking crowd must take precautions against heat stroke and sunburn!
In addition to high temperatures, Grand Prairie experiences humidity during July. The average relative humidity is around 65%, making the air feel muggy and uncomfortable. Although it doesn't rain as often in July, heavy storms are not uncommon.
Overall, Grand Prairie has a warm climate during July that calls for preparation against both heat and the occasional summer storm.
What Will the Hot Weather Mean for the Cricket?
Hot weather can significantly impact a cricket wicket, with positives and negatives for both batsmen and bowlers. For example, as the temperature rises, the soil becomes more compact, making it difficult for batters to hit the ball with the same power and accuracy as in cooler conditions.
Summer heat can also make the surface of the wicket harder and smoother, thus reducing spin and bounce for bowlers. This can mean that the pace of the game is slower, and it can be more challenging for bowlers to take wickets. Hot weather can also lead to increased levels of evaporation, which can dry out a cricket pitch and make it more difficult for the ball to deviate off course. In extreme cases, prolonged exposure to heat can cause cracking in the turf, making it difficult to play on.
The ground staff at the Grand Prairie Stadium will have their work cut out. All tournament games will occur on the same square, which means a lot of preparation will focus on recycling different wickets in hot and harsh conditions.
Will Muggy Weather Impact a Major League Cricket Game?
There are several potential impacts of high humidity at a cricket match. It reduces the swing a bowler can generate, making it easier for batters to play shots without fear of being surprised by movement off the pitch. Furthermore, muggy conditions can cause issues for the bowler to grip the ball.
Overall, muggy weather has the potential to affect both batsmen and bowlers in a cricket game. Attempting to pick the the winner in top batsman betting and top bowler betting markets.
July is High BBQ Season in Texas
Barbeques dominate American Independence Day on July 4th. In Texas, though, it's a cuisine that wafts through back gardens, outdoor spaces, and sporting venues throughout the summer months and beyond.
American crowds are used to high-quality takeaway food at live sporting events. Don't be surprised to see the Grand Prairie Stadium pay homage to the time-honoured tradition of a Texas barbeque.