GUIDANCE NOTE 04

Floodlighting

64 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
INTRODUCTION
Good lighting is important for local sport as it provides more opportunities
to train and play, and assists to maximise the use of facilities.
In the cricket context, floodlighting of select facilities that relate to Premier / Regional, Club
grounds in key locations to support the growth (Home) and Club (Satellite) venues and associated
of short formats of our game is becoming more levels of play.
important to the sport. Additionally, the lighting of
Consideration also needs to be given to the joint
grounds in our northern states is essential to ensure
use of cricket playing fields with other seasonal
that climatic conditions and issues of daylight
sports such as Australian Rules Football, Rugby
savings can be overcome.
codes and Football (Soccer) for which specific
This Guidance Note highlights the critical issues in lighting recommendations exist. In the majority of
relation to floodlighting for outdoor cricket play and cases, venues will have developed lighting in direct
practice and indoor facilities for non-televised level response to the lighting needs of other such sports.
cricket. It provides necessary information to assist in This means reconciling lighting for cricket with
the planning and development of lighting for cricket the lighting of other ground and venue users is an
environments. important factor to encourage new lighting options
for night play cricket.
This Guidance Note is not intended to specifically
consider lighting for International and Domestic In the absence of a formal Australian Standard, this
/ First Class levels of play under the Cricket Guidance Note and other reference documents
Facility Hierarchy as venues will often involve including the IESANZ Lighting Guideline Series
stadium style infrastructure and require specialist LG-4.01 Sports Lighting Cricket, Cricket Oval and
lighting consultancy advice as part of a project Practice Wickets Floodlighting – Queensland
delivery team. Cricket Technical Guidelines and WA Sports
Dimensions Guide for Playing Areas should
Specifically considered within the Guidance Note
be used to help construct a basis for cricket
are lighting considerations for community cricket
floodlighting projects.

The added usage benefits of lighting for cricket

The lighting of practice wicket areas, and
particularly those that provide multi-use activities
are important to extend the use of practice areas
later into the evening, at times where daylight
savings is not supported or simply to create
opportunities for use during winter months.

Floodlighting also provides opportunities to

maximise income by allowing greater programming,
flexibility and optimisation of facility use. It will be
important to balance these benefits against the
initial expense, ongoing energy and maintenance
costs and the implications for site management
and supervision. The primary application of floodlighting for cricket
Cricket Australia also supports the floodlighting should be based on the ability to cater for additional
of fields that support increased usage from other competition(s), carnivals and matches, and assisting
sports, events or community usage where activities to maximise the use of existing venues for a broader
are compatible and the impact on playing and range of activities (for example midweek T20 fixtures).
training areas for cricket are not adversely affected.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 65
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
FLOODLIGHT PLANNING
The requirements and associated issues around
planning, installation and operation of floodlights
are primarily controlled by Local Government
Authorities and in many instances, will be
different from Council to Council.
Each Local Government Planning Scheme and associated zoning
controls will determine on what basis (if any) floodlighting will be
an accepted use of each individual site.

In most instances a Planning Permit and associated community

consultation will be required prior to a floodlighting project being
able to progress.

In addition to Planning Permits, Building Permits will be required

for a floodlighting installation where the height of floodlight
poles exceeds local conditions and controls.

Planning challenges include:

ƒƒGround Conditions: Poor or contaminated soil conditions will

require special mitigation measures. In many cases, sport and
recreation venues have historically been established on land fill
sites or may be developed in areas where rock is present near
the natural level, thus making foundations, excavating and
trenching more costly to undertake.

ƒƒFlood Inundation Overlays and the need to factor in types of

equipment used and mounting heights (eg. electrical safety).

ƒƒLight spill into nearby residential areas and minimisation of

light that may be deemed obtrusive.

ƒƒNearby transport systems such as rail and road usage and

potential adverse impact from light spill.

ƒƒMajor utility services underground or overhead prevalent

through community sport and recreation grounds
potentially limiting pole placement and clearances for
maintenance access.

ƒƒPotential impact of aviation: All venues within 6 kilometres of

an airport need to advise the Airport Operator and limitations
may be placed on floodlight intensities and/or pole heights
potentially acting as obstructions.

ƒƒProvision for cyclone and earthquake withstand conditions.

ƒƒEcological consequences and limitations placed on artificial

lighting where venues exist close to significant habitat areas.

Indentify planning constraints early in a project

and design & budget accordingly for them.

Image courtesy of insideEDGE

Sport and Leisure Planning

66 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

LIGHTING STANDARDS FOR CRICKET
Australian Standards
No Australian Standard (AS) specific to Outdoor Cricket floodlighting
in Australia currently exists.
AS 2560.1 General Principles of Outdoor Sports The Lighting Class system per European
Lighting provides the basic principles on which Standard EN 12193 is recognised in this Guidance
outdoor sports field lighting should be provided Note as the basis for community cricket facility
(including cricket fields). Cricket has historically lighting guidance.
followed Australian Standards developed for
The lighting technical parameters in the IESANZ
similar fast moving small ball sports such as
Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01
Baseball and Softball (AS 2560.2.6) and Hockey
for non-televised venues are consistent, in the
(AS 2560.2.7) to guide cricket field floodlighting
main, with the horizontal illuminance parameters
developments to date.
contained in European Standard EN 12193.
There is also no Australian Standard that offers
EN 12193 does however contain the further general
specific guidance on the lighting for Indoor
sporting requirement that Vertical illuminance
Cricket. Instead the requirements for indoor sports
be measured 1m above ground and not be less
played at multi-purpose indoor sports centres
than 30% of the horizontal level. The provision
are captured more generally within Australian
of adequate vertical illuminance is recommended
Standard AS 2560.2.2-1986 Guide to Sports
with consideration of the levels recommended
Lighting – Part 2.2-Lighting of Multi-purpose
in EN 12193.
Indoor Sports Centres. This standard is for multi-
purpose sports and not applicable ‘to the lighting
of areas dedicated to a specific sport’.

International Standards – EN 12193

The European Sports Lighting Standard ‘EN The IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG -
12193 Light and Lighting – Sports Lighting 2007’ 4.01 offers a structured set of requirements that knit
contains recommendations specific to both with requirements also listed in European Standard
Outdoor and Indoor Cricket. The requirements EN 12193. It offers a basis for lighting of community
for Outdoor Cricket specified match those also cricket facilities used for Outdoor Cricket in Australia
prescribed for Baseball in EN 12193. and provides relevant information in the absence of
IES Lighting Guide LG 4.01 Outdoor Cricket - 2013 any specific Australian and New Zealand Standard.
The Professional Body representing Lighting Design
The provision of adequate vertical illuminance needs
in Australia and New Zealand, the Illuminating to also be considered with reference to EN 12193.
Engineering Society of Australia and New Zealand Any corresponding recommendations for Indoor
has developed a Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket should also be considered if a proposed
Cricket. LG-4.01 Sports Lighting: Cricket - 2013.
corresponding IESANZ Lighting Guide LG 4.02
This guide does not cover Indoor Cricket. It notes is published specific to Indoor Cricket.
a separate guide is to be published for Indoor
Cricket LG-4.02 Sports Lighting: Indoor Cricket
however this has no identified timeframe for Image courtesy of Cricket Australia
its development.

This Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG -

4.01 offers a wide range of relevant technical
guidance information for the lighting of cricket
venues. It refers to the Class I, II and III (or 1, 2
and 3) categories in the specification of Lighting
Standards and cites the European Lighting
Standard EN 12193 as a reference.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 67
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
Queensland Cricket Technical Guidelines: Television Broadcast Lighting
Cricket Oval and Practice Wicket Floodlighting Because lighting for television broadcast involves
The Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets a range of further considerations that are only
Floodlighting – Queensland Cricket Technical expected to apply at International and Domestic
Guidelines offer technical recommendations of / First Class venues, lighting requirements are not
a detailed nature for cricket playing fields and specifically considered within this Guidance Note.
also represents a suitable lighting basis. IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG -
Guidance for practice wickets and multiple field 4.01 does however address the requirements for
modified cricket are also provided. International and Domestic / First Class venues
and Colour Television Broadcast for cricket in the
Lighting technical parameters for horizontal event further details are required.
illuminance are consistent, in the main, with
European Standard EN 12193 and the IESANZ
Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01,
and detailed specifications for the provision of
Vertical Illuminance are also provided.

Designs compliant with the requirements of the

Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets Floodlighting
– Queensland Cricket Technical Guidelines are
seen as compatible with the recommendations
in this Guidance Note, with the exception that a
Glare Rating minimum GR=50 is adopted in-line
with that recommended in IESANZ Lighting Guide
for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01, for all levels of
competition including Class III. Image courtesy of Musco Lighting

68 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

CRICKET PLAY FORMATS
This Guidance Note considers five Indoor playing area dimensions
unique playing area situations.
1. Outdoor playing area

2. Outdoor practice nets

3. Outdoor multi-oval formats

4. Indoor Cricket court

EXCLUSION ZONE
5. Indoor practice nets. 3m radius from
batting crease
Sporting dimensions and pertinent definitions
are detailed within other sections including
Guidance Note 01: Pitches and Playing Fields,

PITCH LENGTH 20m

Guidance Note 02: Outdoor Training Facilities

EDGE OF PITCH

28 - 30m
and Guidance Note 07: Indoor Cricket.

The figures below identify key common elements

referenced for the lighting of outdoor playing NON-STRIKERS
areas and Indoor Cricket court situations only. CREASE
The areas for outdoor practice nets, outdoor
multi-oval formats and indoor practice nets are
not represented visually as there are no formalised
or standardised dimensions for these play
BOWLING CREASE
environments.

The varied dimensions of playing areas must be STUMPS

a key consideration when planning and designing
lighting infrastructure for both indoor and
outdoor play and practice.
10.5 - 12m

Outdoor playing area dimensions Outdoor cricket field of play

PREFERRED PLAYING
LEVEL OF COMPETITION FIELD DIMENSIONS
MINIMUM RECOMMENDED
IN2CRICKET (AGES 5 TO 8) 25m 30m
UNDER 10 30m 40m
27.4m

UNDER 12 40m 45m

UNDER 14 45m 50m PITCH
27.4m

SQUARE*
UNDER 16 45m 55m
OPEN AGE 50m 60m 27.4m
(COMMUNITY CLUB)
INFIELD
OPEN AGE 65m 75m
(PREMIER/REGIONAL)
DOMESTIC MEN’S AND UNDERAGE 82m 82m
NATIONAL MALE EVENTS OUTFIELD
DOMESTIC WOMEN’S AND UNDERAGE 58m 58m
NATIONAL GIRLS EVENTS
* The SQUARE (inclusive of the turf table) is the specifically prepared
Further details are available on playing field dimensions area of the field of play with which the match pitch is situated.
in Guidance Note 1: Pitches and Playing Fields It is generally an area 27.4m x 27.4m as defined in EN12193.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 69
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
LIGHTING PERFORMANCE
The planning, design and layout of floodlighting infrastructure is critical to ensure
the required uniformity of illumination, to minimise glare and obstruction to
participants and play and to minimise the obtrusive effects of outdoor lighting.
Floodlighting illuminance levels for most sports There are also several other factors in lighting
depend on the following three factors: design that need to be taken into account,
including the following:
1. Safety and comfort of participants,
officials and spectators Uniform lighting ensures the eye is not forced
to compensate for marked changes in lighting
2. The size, speed and contrast of the ball,
levels through perceived light and dark patches
and in the field of view during play and is thus able to
3. The level of competition to be played adequately gauge the trajectory and position of
(and trained for) under floodlit conditions. the ball and that of other participants.

As a fast moving ball sport the lighting Control of glare is important to ensure visual
illuminance requirements for cricket are generally comfort is acceptable for all sports participants
comparatively higher than for the ball sports and spectators. In practice, glare is controlled by
of Australian Rules Football, Rugby codes and ensuring floodlights are mounted at adequate
Football (Soccer) – the seasonal sports that height and selected from types that well control
cricket typically shares venues with. the distribution of light to the playing surface.

Illuminance requirements are most important in Colour temperature of the floodlight lamps is
the centre wicket (pitch) and square areas where the colour the lamp, and light it emits, appears
heightened activity occurs. For this reason higher and should be consistent and ideally one value
illuminance levels are specified in this area than between 4000K and 6000K.
for the outfield. Colour rendering measured as Colour
Illuminance is also important to adequately Rendering Index (CRI) shall ≥ 65. This index
disclose the position of boundaries. measures the degree to which the playing area
and colours lit are accurately portrayed to
participants and spectators.

Lighting objectives
Lighting objectives for community cricket adapted from the IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket
LG - 4.01 include, to:
ƒƒcreate good visibility for players, officials and spectators;

ƒƒprovide sufficient and uniform illumination of the field and the ball through its flight;

ƒƒconvey the scene and player team colours;

ƒƒproduce a suitable visual background against which the players and the ball are contrasted to enable
quick and clear identification;

ƒƒcontrol and restrict glare;

ƒƒcontrol obtrusive lighting impacts to neighbours and limit waste upward light.

70 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

 Play level classifications
Classifications (Class I, II & III) are defined under Class II is set for mid-level competition
the European Lighting Standard EN 12193 and such as Premier, regional and/or high level
adapted for cricket as follows: club competition, which may involve medium
size spectator capacities with medium
Lighting Class I – International and National
viewing distances.
play shall meet this classification.
Premier cricket, high level club or regional
Class I is set for top level competition.
squad training can also be included in this Class.
In the cricket context, this level is likely to
Lighting Class III - Low Level Competition
include non-televised international, domestic,
play shall meet this classification.
first-class and state level fixtures and events.
Class III is set for local community club
Venues will be designed to accommodate
(selective only) or recreational level competition
international and national competition which
which does not generally involve spectators.
generally involves large spectator capacities
with long potential viewing distances. Top General training, physical education (school
level (high performance) training can also be sports) and recreational activities can also be
included in this Class. included in this Class.

Lighting Class II - Regional Level Competition Cricket Training – Match Practice and Training
or Local Club Competition play shall meet this In addition reduced levels of lighting may also
classification. be suitable for centre wicket cricket training.

Selection of the Lighting Class (EN12193)

LIGHTING CLASS
LEVEL OF COMPETITION
I II III
INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL ✔
REGIONAL ✔ ✔
LOCAL ✔ ✔ ✔
TRAINING ✔ ✔
RECREATIONAL/SCHOOL SPORTS (PHYSICAL EDUCATION) ✔
Table source: EN 12193 – 2007: Table 3

An important task is the categorisation of the Lighting Class for a prospective venue. Notably EN 12193
reflects the fact that more than one level of play may occur under a given classification.

The Lighting Classes as defined above are adapted for use within the Australia cricket context, also
addressing the community cricket levels of play and associated club structure, as the basis to define
recommended cricket lighting criteria in the following tables.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 71
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
LIGHTING CRITERIA FOR OUTDOOR CRICKET
Lighting Criteria for Non-televised Matches
HORIZONTAL ILLUMINANCE (MAINTAINED)*
SQUARE OUTFIELD
CLASS UNIFORMITIES UNIFORMITIES
AVERAGE LUX AVERAGE LUX
Emin/Eave, U1 Emin/Emax, U2 Emin/Eave, U1 Emin/Emax, U2
I 750 0.7 0.5 500 0.5 0.4
II 500 0.7 0.5 300 0.5 0.4
III 300 0.5 0.5 200 0.3 0.3
MINIMUM COLOUR RENDERING, RA8 MAXIMUM UNIFORMITY GRADIENT, UG MAXIMUM GLARE RATING, GR
>65; preferable** >90 20% per 5m 50†

* Values of illuminance measured at the time of commissioning an installation (i.e. “day one”) should be greater than the maintained illuminance values
shown above – see maintenance clause. A nominal maintenance factor of 0.8 is recommended, the initial values will therefore be 1.25 times the values
shown in the tables.
** If future upgrading to a level suitable for television broadcasting is intended or likely; the selection of light sources with CRI Ra≥90 should be considered.
† GR should be ≤40 for each batsman in direction of view towards the opposite wicket.
Source: IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01 : Table 1

Lighting Criteria for Cricket Training and Match Practice

AVERAGE HORIZONTAL UNIFORMITIES MINIMUM COLOUR MINIMUM GLARE
LEVEL OF PLAY ILLUMINANCE
Emin/Eave, U1 Emin/Emax, U2 RENDERING, Ra8 RATING, GR
(MAINTAINED), LUX
Match practice 200 0.6 0.4 65 50
Non-body contact training* 100 0.5 0.3 65 50

* Ball training and physical training: non-body contact only. Source: IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01 : Table 3.

Refer to IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket

LG - 4.01 for guidance for International and Domestic /
First Class matches which are likely to involve cricket at
the professional level and cater for televised matches.

72 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

OUTDOOR CRICKET LIGHTING CLASSIFICATIONS AND ASSOCIATED CONSIDERATIONS
CRICKET TRAINING &
CRICKET FACILITY CRICKET PROFESSIONAL CLASS I CLASS II CLASS III MATCH PRACTICE
HIERARCHY TELEVISED MATCHES SEE A SEE B SEE C SEE D & E
International ✔ ✔
Domestic / First Class ✔ ✔ ✔
Premier / Regional ✔ ✔ ✔
Club (Home) ✔ ✔ ✔
Club (Satellite) ✔ ✔ ✔

Subject to specific competition risk assessment and consultation with the relevant Cricket Association
and facility provider noted below:

A. C lass I - Non-televised high level ƒƒClub (Home) and Club (Satellite) training use.
ƒƒUse at the ‘Talent’ pathway levels under risk
competition use anticipates: assessed conditions and agreed by relevant
ƒƒNon-televised matches. Cricket Association, competition or program
ƒƒInternational / Domestic match and training use. administrator, particularly for ‘Potential is
ƒƒUse at the ‘Elite and Mastery’ pathway levels. identified – Premier 1sts, National youth
competitions and programs’.
ƒƒSelective ancillary use by Premier / Regional
levels (eg finals). ƒƒUse at the ‘Foundation’ level for ‘Playing
and Competing’ participation levels under
ƒƒUse at the ‘Talent’ levels of the cricket pathway
risk assessed conditions and agreed by
– particularly ‘Breakthrough – Australia A’ and
relevant Cricket Association or competition
‘CBA Shooting Stars’ and ‘Strong Performances
administrator, particularly junior and local senior
– National Senior Competitions’.
competition and recreational level play.
ƒƒCapacity for large spectator galleries.
ƒƒGenerally involving small to no spectator
ƒƒLong potential viewing distances.
galleries.
B. Class II – Club competition use anticipates: D. C ricket training and match practice at a
ƒƒNon-televised matches.
minimum 200 Lux installation anticipates:
ƒƒDomestic / First Class training use.
ƒƒUse at the ‘Foundation’ pathway levels under
ƒƒClub (Home) or Club (Satellite) match and risk assessed conditions and agreed by
training use. relevant Cricket Association or competition
ƒƒUse at the ‘Talent’ pathway levels particularly administrator, particularly for Playing &
‘Skill & Determination – National 2nd Tier Competing - Junior and Senior Competition
Competition and performance program’ and and Learning the Skills – MILO in2Cricket &
‘Potential is identified – Premier 1sts, National MILO T20 Blast.
youth competitions and programs’.
ƒƒCapacity for medium spectator galleries.
E. Cricket training at a minimum 100 Lux
ƒƒMedium viewing distances. installation anticipates:
ƒƒUse at the ‘Foundation’ participation levels
C. C lass III – Local club competition under risk assessed conditions and agreed by
(selective only), recreational, competition relevant club user or program administrator and
asset manager, particularly for ‘Learning the
and training use anticipates: Skills – MILO in2Cricket & MILO T20 Blast’ and
ƒƒNon-televised matches. ‘Get Moving’ - social activities.
ƒƒClub (Home) and Club (Satellite) match use under
risk assessed conditions and agreed by relevant
Cricket Association or competition administrator.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 73
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
RISK ASSESSMENT
Each level of cricket competition can occur across more than one Lighting Class.
This is a reflection of the differences that exist in playing standards and abilities even within a single
level of competition.

For example the decision as to whether to categorise a specific outdoor competition as requiring venue
lighting to Class II (500 Lux square / 300 Lux outfield) or as Class III (300 Lux square / 200 Lux outfield)
will depend on the risk assessment.

Risk Assessment and Insurance coverage are pre-requisites for conducting night cricket activities
under floodlights.

For each floodlit venue, verify with the venue insurer and the relevant Cricket Association the validity of
insurance for the cricket activities proposed under floodlights and abide by the relevant Cricket Association’s
conditions and further guidelines for night play under floodlighting. In the absence of an approved Australian
Standard specifically for cricket, this risk assessment is a critical component and should have input from the
local competition administrators, participating clubs, players and relevant land owners.

Examples of risk factors to consider include:

ƒƒComposition of the competition (eg. the ƒƒFactors disclosed from research of cricket
likelihood the competition will contain elite level competition and training under floodlights
players and/or express pace bowlers).
ƒƒOther risk mitigation initiatives taken by
ƒƒSenior versus junior levels of play and age groups organisers (eg. night play risk undertakings
concerned, as physical capacities will vary. by participants).

ƒƒExtent of safeguards imposed by competitions ƒƒOther risk factors raised for consideration
(eg. speed restrictions or hard versus soft ball by venue / Cricket Association insurers as
use). a condition for providing insurance.

ƒƒExtent of mandated protective equipment ƒƒLegal framework under which a competition

such as helmets, pads and other protective will run and the nature of the legal remedies
equipment. available against clubs and associations for
litigants seeking recourse for personal injury.
ƒƒExtent to which activities that take place
under lights are controlled (eg. practice drills
performed under similar conditions).

ƒƒExtent to which activities may occur in smaller

groups which allow added predictability
regarding matters such as ball speed,
trajectories and positions of participants.

ƒƒVisual aids such as playing with a white ball,

It is recommended that the Lighting Classification
specific sight screen measures to minimise
of each level of competition undertaken by
distracting background or help improve the the relevant Cricket Association be established
contrast with the ball during delivery. within a Risk Management Framework to offer
a sound basis under which competition and
ƒƒAny other specific measures taken to further
training activities can take place under lights.
reduce the potential for injury (eg. auditing of
lighting systems).

74 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

COMPATIBILITY OF CRICKET LIGHTING
The above performance standards at Class II, Class When checking compatibility of use, note that
III and Training and Match Practice floodlighting for with the exception of Baseball and Softball, the
community cricket are also compatible with a range Football Codes and Hockey express the lighting
of other field based sports and activities. This means requirements as consistent values across the entire
venues developed around other sports may be play area. Cricket and Baseball / Softball require a
suitable or readily adapted for cricket and vice-versa. general outfield level with a higher square or infield
requirement respectively.
The compatibility table illustrates expected
lighting relationships between codes and may help For example semi-professional Australian Rules
identify opportunities for collateral use between Football at 200 Lux will be suitable for cricket
cricket and other codes. This is expected to match practice, but may not be suitable for Class
become increasingly important as the large cost III unless specific measures have been taken to
for communities to construct and maintain venues boost the centre square horizontal illuminance to
increases the demand to maximise its utility. 300 Lux and comply with other parameters eg.
vertical illuminance and glare.

CRICKET LIGHTING COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER CODES

AFL Rugby Codes Soccer
Cricket Lighting Class Baseball /Softball AS 2560.2.6 (4) Hockey AS2560.2.7 (5)
AS 2560.2.3
Baseball AAA and
Class I 750 / 500 Lux Football (All Codes) Professional (1) 500 Lux Class I 500 Lux (5)
Softball International 750/500 Lux
Class II 500 / 300 Lux Football (All Codes) Semi-Professional (2) 200 Lux Class II 250 Lux (5)
Baseball & Softball Club Competition
Class III 300 / 200 Lux Football (All Codes) Semi-Professional (2) 200 Lux Class III 200 Lux (5)
or bat & ball training 250/150 Lux
Match Practice 200 Lux Football (All Codes) Semi-Professional (2) 200 Lux Class III 200 Lux (5)
Non-body contact training Amateur Club Competition & Match Practice (3) 100 Lux

Footnotes:
1. AS 2560.2.3 for Football (All Codes) recommends 500 5. Hockey lighting standards are those referred to by the
Lux with Uniformity of 0.7 Minimum to Average and 0.5 International Hockey Federation (FIH). These align with
Minimum to Maximum as per Class I. European Standard EN 12193, except the FIH sets Class II
minimum as per Class III at 200 Lux. Uniformity is generally
2. Semi-Professional venues may be adapted for Cricket with specified higher than for Cricket (0.7 Minimum to Average and
additional centre square lighting. Conversely Cricket Class 0.5 Minimum to Maximum). Such higher uniformities may be
III may be adapted for Semi Professional Football Codes possible but are unlikely delivered at cricket venues designed
so long as an overall oval Uniformity of 0.6 Minimum to for Class II and III. Conversely however, Hockey venue lighting
Average and 0.4 Minimum to Maximum can be obtained. is likely to meet the lighting levels for cricket and a co-share
Venues catering for Match Practice Cricket are expected to use with cricket may be possible with due consideration to the
comply with All Football Codes Semi-Professional standard smaller rectangular field size. It is important to also note there
and vice versa. is an Australian Standard for Hockey whose values generally
3. Football Code Amateur Club Competition may also cater for align with the above for Class I and Class II, but a 30 Lux level
selective cricket participation use. design is permissible for Physical Training, though rarely is such
a low level used in practice.
4. Baseball and Softball Lighting is specified in AS 2560.2.6. In
addition, peak Baseball bodies are known to have prescribed
additional lighting requirements (eg Baseball Victoria).

Cricket and Australian Rules Football are natural

seasonal ground use companions. Closer
scrutiny of existing Australian Rules Football
lighting levels and the further introduction
Because standards and requirements of sporting of CA-AFL approved artificial turf fields may
governing bodies evolve, this information is to reveal play opportunities for night cricket.
be used as a guide only. Verification with venue Also venues developed specifically for bat
operators, Local Councils and the relevant peak / stick sports such as Baseball and Hockey
sporting bodies as to the extent to which venues can tend to install higher lighting levels more
accommodate compatible lighting that encourages naturally compatible with cricket. This invites
multi-purpose access and thus opportunities consideration of modified use overlays for Cricket
for outdoor cricket play should be sought. where natural grassed fields are shared.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 75
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
CRICKET OVAL FLOODLIGHTING LAYOUT CONSIDERATIONS
Key questions in developing a
floodlighting layout are:

ƒƒLight tower or pole locations,

including player safety clearances.

ƒƒMounting height and aiming 5˚

philosophy for floodlights. 45˚

ƒƒGlare control.
5˚
20˚ 45˚ 20˚
ƒƒObtrusive lighting limitation
per AS 4282.

In determining a suitable layout 20˚ 20˚

for cricket installations, extensive

guidance is provided in

d
IESANZ Lighting Guide for minimum 5m

Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01.

The following is a précis of the d
minimum 5m
key information.

Floodlight location zones

Light tower or pole locations Permitted Preferred End Restricted Zones

For the large majority of Floodlight/pole locations - example

Floodlight location zones
community cricket grounds,
Permitted FigurePreferred
1: 4 Pole System End Restricted Zones
the typical design will Source: Adapted figure 2 of IESANZ LG4.01
Floodlight/pole locations - example
include a 4 pole design.

6 pole designs are

recommended for televised
play conditions. They may
also be required to improve 10˚
spill lighting control. 40˚

A 5m clearance (run-off) 10˚

zone shall be provided from
20˚ 40˚
the playing area or boundary
line to any light pole. As
per the Football (All Codes) 20˚
Standard, placement can
be immediately behind a
d
permitted boundary fence.
min
The Football (All Codes) imu
m5 d
Standard AS 2560.2.3 provides m

details on establishing the pole

min
locations and pole heights. imu
m5
m
The same basis is acceptable
for community cricket. Floodlight location zones
Permitted Preferred End Restricted Zones
Figures 01 and 02 provide
details of the recommended Floodlight/pole locations - example
Floodlight location zones
pole location zones for
Permitted Preferred End Restricted Zones
both a 4 pole and a 6 pole
Floodlight/pole locations - example
system. In these figures the
‘permitted’ zones match those Figure 2: 6 Pole System
of Australian Rules Football. Source: Adapted figure 3 of IESANZ LG4.01

76 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

Pole heights Floodlighting aiming
Adequate pole height is important to ensure good Floodlight aiming angle is generally recommended
seeing conditions for participants which minimise to not exceed 65°. The aiming angle is the angle in
glare to within prescribed levels and allow light to the vertical plane between the line of peak intensity
uniformly distribute throughout the playing area. and a downward vertical line connecting the centre
of the floodlight to the ground below. Floodlighting
Given community based facilities will often share
designs will often refer to this as the floodlight ‘tilt’.
with football codes adopting the same criteria
when setting the pole heights is beneficial.

Pole heights are recommended based on the

distance d determined as per the above diagrams.

For non-televised venues the mounting height is A higher mounting height will better facilitate control
recommended as h = 0.36 x d where:
of glare with some publications recommending an
h = height of the lowest floodlight above the field angle up to 25 degrees to the lowest floodlight.
surface (which may differ from the height above
the base of the pole).
Conversely the IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor
Cricket LG - 4.01 proposes that a 4 pole system
d = horizontal distance between floodlight oval pole height may be based on the distance to
centre or major axis through the centre of the oval.
a major axis rather than centre of the oval.
The above corresponds to an angle of 20 degrees
to the lowest floodlight from the centre of the oval
While the resulting pole heights with either method
(4 pole system) or oval major axis (6 pole system)
may be little different, keeping the basis consistent
(tan20°=0.36). with Australian Rules Football fulfils both Cricket and
Australian Rules Football requirements and aids utility.
In any case pole heights less than 25m are not
recommended for the lighting of outdoor cricket
playing fields.

For Class I venues, consideration should in any

case be given to increasing the pole heights to
obtain 25 degrees to the lowest floodlight from
the centre of the oval and thus h = 0.47 x d
(tan25°=0.47).

This greater height would also be required should

a venue wish to upgrade for television broadcast
at a subsequent time and would also be required if
the venue wished to accommodate football code
professional play standards.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 77
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
CRICKET OVAL FLOODLIGHTING LAYOUT CONSIDERATIONS (CONT)
Glare control
A common situation with existing playing areas is These positions are called the Observer Positions
the type of floodlights selected combined with a and are taken from a height 1.5m above the
lower than recommended mounting height often Principal Playing Area (PPA).
see floodlights being tilted up and aimed too high
Note: Yellow notations indicate observer positions
in an effort to try and project light further into
for oval infields and practice wickets. Green
the play area. This in turn can lead to glare from
notations indicate observer positions of playing
floodlights which create difficult visual conditions
area outfields.
for sports play and also for spectators. This may
prove problematic for obtrusive light.

It is essential to give due consideration to the pole Edge of

square/practice
locations, the mounting of floodlights at adequate wicket
height and the aiming angle of floodlights to limit Crease
glare to within acceptable levels. 45˚ 45˚

Calculation of glare rating (GR) as setout in 45˚ 45˚

AS 2560.1 is recommended and designs that
maintain glare within the limits prescribed in 45˚ 45˚
the ‘Lighting Criteria’ Tables. Note the need to 45˚ 45˚
reduce glare where the player’s direction of view
is toward the pitch. The ‘Lighting Criteria’ Table
footnote recommends GR not exceed 40 in
these viewing directions.

Glare calculations assume a ‘grass’ colour with

Figure 3: Observer Positions - Glare Calculations
diffuse reflectance in range of 0.15 to 0.25. Cricket Oval Square/Outfield and Practice Wickets
Observer Positions: Oval square and practice wickets
The positions on the play area where Glare Observer Positions: Oval outfields
Rating calculations are to be made match Source: Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets Floodlighting –
those for Australian Rules Football as per AS Queensland Cricket Technical Guidelines (adapted)
2560.2.3 Figure 6 with additional positions
relating to the cricket wicket. These are shown
in Figure 3 adjacent.
Obtrusive lighting control
Australian Standard AS 4282 – Control of the
Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting, lists criteria
for compliance to control the adverse impacts of
spill light on neighbouring surrounds.

The Standard recognises 2 sets of lighting

parameters based on ‘pre-curfew’ and ‘curfew’
The aim of making recommendations on pole hours of operation.
locations, heights and floodlight aiming is to
High illuminance installations such as Cricket
obtain good seeing conditions for play.
can be exacting for compliance with light spill
Some modification may be permitted with detailed limitations and can significantly impact layouts
design and calculation by experienced professional where venues are situated in near proximity to
floodlighting designers provided compliance is residential neighbourhoods.
obtained with the lighting criteria tables.
Note there are also further lighting criteria that
need tobe observed for televised use which will
impact pole and floodlight locations, floodlight Review of the likely impacts of spill light at an early
types and aiming. Refer to IESANZ Lighting Guide stage in the project is recommended to avoid major
for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01 for further guidance. change requirements in a progressed design.

78 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

OUTDOOR PRACTICE WICKETS FLOODLIGHTING LAYOUT CONSIDERATIONS
General
In general, lighting for outdoor practice or training facilities should follow similar
principles as outlined for outdoor cricket playing field lighting.
The principles and information provided within this section of the Guidance Note on outdoor practice and
training facilities is also based around the minimum size of a single practice wicket, being 33m x 4m. As the
size and dimensions of practice areas will vary considerably, this dimension has been used as the basis.

The Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets Floodlighting – Queensland Cricket Technical Guidelines offer
detailed technical recommendations on the lighting of outdoor practice nets and consider a floodlighting
example of a dual practice wicket net.

Lighting standards and guideline recommendations Practice wicket general lighting considerations
There is no specific Australian Standard for lighting Practice wickets / training nets have the advantage
of cricket practice nets. Neither is there any guidance of being a much smaller area to light. The lower
in allied Australian Standards for Hockey and/or proportionate cost compared with lighting a whole
Baseball or in European Sports Standard EN 12193. playing field therefore means higher lighting levels
can be obtained more affordably.
IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG -
4.01 recommends the lighting of outdoor practice The following considerations in lighting practice
wickets should match the standard of play at the wickets / training net facilities are noted:
venue for non-televised competitions as listed per
ƒƒAvoid poles/floodlights on the wicket axis (ie.
the ‘Lighting Criteria’ tables that are referenced
behind the bowler’s run-up or batsmen’s wicket).
earlier within this Guidance Note.
ƒƒFactor the light loss due to wired fence or
The Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets
netting. The extent to which light will be
Floodlighting – Queensland Cricket Technical
reduced depends on the light transmission of
Guidelines offers technical guidance
the netting. Obtain details and factor this light
recommendations of a more detailed nature for
loss into the illuminance design calculations.
practice wickets. The listed Lighting Technical
Parameters for horizontal illuminance are ƒƒProvide a minimum of 4 poles located behind
consistent, in the main, with the IESANZ Lighting the batting and bowling crease and outside
Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01, however the pitch area.
detailed requirements exist in the Cricket Oval
ƒƒConsider the use of white balls and dark colour
and Practice Wickets Floodlighting – Queensland
netting as a visual aid to increasing contrast
Cricket Technical Guidelines for the calculation of
and visibility.
practice wicket vertical illuminance.

Pole mounting height

Determine pole mounting height to satisfy the
lighting technical parameters.

Practice wicket lighting measurements

The minimum calculation grid shall be as per
EN12193 Indoor Cricket Nets of same dimension
equating to a 2m long x 1m wide grid. A 1m x1m
grid will provide a finer resolution where required.

Blacktown International Sports Park (NSW)

Image courtesy of Musco Lighting

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 79
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
MODIFIED JUNIOR CRICKET MULTIPLE FIELDS AND PITCHES
Similar principles outlined for outdoor cricket playing field lighting apply. Playing
areas may be of varying size to accommodate multiple pitches and matches on
a site and may be of a temporary nature.
Sizes may range from 30m to 75m typically The Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets Floodlighting
depending on the level of competition and age of – Queensland Cricket Technical Guidelines
players. It may be impractical to light each playing considers a floodlighting example of modified
area individually. Planning that keeps a consistent junior cricket multiple fields and pitch design.
orientation of pitches is preferred to minimise glare
Pole layouts shall ensure each play area receives
to bowlers and batsmen.
lighting from multiple directions and complies
with the lighting technical parameters listed earlier
within this Guidance Note.

FURTHER FLOODLIGHTING CONSIDERATIONS

Besides lighting the cricket playing area there are several further lighting
aspects to consider.

White ball use Spectator viewing areas

The use of a white, more highly reflective ball, Consider in the floodlighting design open
can be an important aid to improve visibility areas occupied by spectators in the design
under floodlights. of venue lighting.

Benefits of white ball use will reduce where: Note the European Standard requirement of 10
Lux minimum average to the spectator viewing
ƒƒThe ball wears and takes on a darker
areas for spectator visual comfort shall be
physical appearance requiring more
considered in those areas specifically set aside
frequent replacement.
for outdoor spectator viewing.
ƒƒThe ball is being viewed against a
Consider that little or no playing area floodlighting
predominantly white background such
may beneficially light enclosed or covered
as a fixed white sight screen or players
spectator viewing areas. Therefore make allowance
wearing white coloured clothing.
for separate lighting systems in accordance with
The choice of ball for night matches is subject the Relevant Building Regulations. Comply with
to ongoing research. The type and colour of ball the further recommendations of the relevant
used under floodlights shall be specifically agreed Australian Lighting Standards, for example
to take account of latest research and specific AS 1680 series for Indoor Lighting and AS 2293
guidelines provided through Cricket Associations. for Exit and Emergency Evacuation Lighting.

Safety lighting Public lighting

Any venue catering for night play should give Many community venues centre night time
consideration to whether player safety lighting activity around the clubrooms and playing area
is necessary. This may be via use of hot-restrike connections. Commonly there is a car park
control systems or UPS / standby generator and access road. Larger shared use sites may
system backups. incorporate additional pedestrian accesses.

Public lighting is not attended to by sports

floodlighting. The applicable Lighting Design
Standard is AS 1158.3.1 for Pedestrian Category
lighting. Separate review and consideration of the
need for ancillary pubic lighting should be made
at the time of new or upgraded venue design at
which time may be most economically provided.

80 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

Emerging technologies Operation and maintenance
Consider the likely impacts of emerging Lamp replacement, energy consumption and
technology when designing venue lighting. Higher maintenance of the installation constitute
efficiencies from new Solid State Lighting (SSL) important elements in the longevity of
technologies (eg. LED) may impact light pole infrastructure and can involve substantial costs to
headframes and foundation load capacities, as well properly manage the installation over its lifetime.
as potentially reduce power demand and energy
IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG -
consumption which may in turn permit reduced
4.01 provides information regarding the relevant
electrical cable supply and alleviate, in some cases,
considerations for maintenance.
the need for power supply upgrade needs.
Considerations include:
Environment and climate change considerations
ƒƒProvision of a maintenance manual as part of
Community use facilities need to consider the project commissioning and handover
environmental factors with new or upgraded
ƒƒDetermination of the maintenance cycle
lighting, including:
ƒƒVerification of correct aiming and aiming
ƒƒObtrusive light - Comply with AS 4282 to
records
minimise light spill to neighbouring sites such as
residential areas and including the impacts on ƒƒLamp data to facilitate spot (individual) lamp
transport systems. replacements and bulk lamp replacements
ƒƒSelection of floodlights to eliminate or ƒƒCleaning interval
minimise waste upward spill light that
ƒƒPeriodic aiming checks.
contributes to sky glow.

ƒƒLighting controls to limit operation only to

curfewed times. A number of simple but effective measures
may be incorporated to aid the operation and
ƒƒLighting controls to cater for flexible switching maintenance. Relevant examples include:
of lights to reduce levels when full lighting
is not required for competition (eg. training ƒƒMultiple switching schemes to allow switch
only activities). down and alternation of operation of particular
lamp groups to reduce energy and lamp
ƒƒConstant light output type controls that can burning times
reduce energy by trimming initial excess lighting
levels present when an installation is in its initial ƒƒHours run indicators to manage the burn
phase of lamp life. time of groups of lights and help equalise
lamp run hours
ƒƒImproved Energy Efficiency Lamp Technologies,
for example Solid State Lighting (eg LED). ƒƒCurfew timers to automatically switch down
and out floodlight installations inadvertently
ƒƒRemote lighting control and monitoring - left on after hours
Increasingly new technologies make wireless
control and remote access easier inviting ƒƒKey switch controls and/or placement of
greater flexibility around the scheduling of controls that may operate floodlights in secure
lighting operation to suit user demands and locations to prevent unauthorised operation
better regulate unauthorised operation. ƒƒRemote control and monitoring linkage to allow
ƒƒStrategies that encourage waste management in off site scheduling and policing of installation
the form of lamp specifications with prolonged run times.
lamp life to reduce land fill and/or which cater
for recycling of components after service life.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 81
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
FURTHER FLOODLIGHTING CONSIDERATIONS (CONT)
Lighting compliance Lighting design
Calculation and measurements for the To guarantee a quality sports lighting installation
floodlighting installation shall be to a defined for cricket, and to ensure local site and usage
grid. Selection of a suitable measurement grid conditions are considered, a lighting design and
is considered in AS 2560.1, European Standard installation specification should be developed in
EN12193 and IESANZ LG 4.01. conjunction with a sports lighting design specialist.

For calculations the grid is 5m x 5m with a The design and installation contractor proposals
2m x 2m grid in the square. should be carried out and reviewed by a qualified
floodlighting specialist with corporate membership
Further guidance regarding measurement and
of the Illuminating Engineering Society of Australia
commissioning can be found in IESANZ Lighting
and New Zealand (MIES ANZ or higher).
Guide for Outdoor Cricket LG - 4.01 and the
Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets Floodlighting – A list of corporate members may be found by
Queensland Cricket Technical Guidelines. contacting the IES: The Lighting Society via
www.iesanz.org/

LIGHTING CAPITAL PROJECT BUDGET ELEMENTS

The following is a summary of the cost elements that will typically arise
in a cricket lighting project.

Geotechnical (soil report) should include supply and freight to site and
offloading at suitable positions close to the point
Undertake a soil test at each proposed pole of erection at site. Check the requirements for
location. foundation cages and ragbolts assemblies required
A likely 4 pole layout will require 4 site test bore to be cast into the foundations. Depending on the
holes and an associated Geotechnical report. foundation design these will be either by the pole
supplier or part of the civil works construction of
Geotechnical advice is essential to minimise cost the pole foundations.
risk for construction of foundations and should
disclose if the proposed pole locations contain Pole installation
land fill, chemically aggressive soils, rock at
Installation costs should include assembly of
shallow depth all of which can contribute extra
the light poles at site. Note rigid steel poles
cost for foundations.
usually come delivered in sections that require
Floodlights supply site assembly to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Obtain specific installation instructions for any
Supply costs should include floodlight, lamp, site poles proposed with a lowering headframe or
delivery and a suitable warranty. facilities for personal access and ensure inclusion
for all correct installation measures.
Floodlights installation
Installation costs should include the labour to Foundations
take delivery, operationally check, check the Concrete pole foundations are usually required,
beam distribution is correctly set and mount suitably designed by a professional structural
the floodlight onto the pole, or more usually a engineer. The type of foundation will be
pole cross arm. determined based on the site conditions disclosed
by the Geotechnical report. Common types
Pole supply include concrete bored piers and raft footings.
Pole supply involves the provision of a suitable Certification of the structural design and provision
pole of the correct height and duty to carry the of building permits should also be allowed under
quantity of floodlights proposed. The pole supply this element.

82 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

Lifting / Cranage Lighting switching controls
Pole installation, aiming of floodlights and Thought should be given to the methods of
subsequent maintenance will usually involve high controls and the separate user groups that will
lift access machinery. Equipment such as crane be given access to the floodlight installation.
trucks involves considering access both for the Control may be via simple manual key switch
initial installation and subsequent maintenance. controls or via keypad / touch screen type
networked lighting controls. In addition remote
Plan locations that do not entail access over the
access to turn floodlights on and off and to
playing surface wherever possible to prevent oval
monitor the status of the floodlights on or off may
damage, particularly during wet weather periods,
be desired either now or in the future.
as the vehicle weights are substantial.

Power supply Cabling

Electrical cabling is required between the
Electrical power consumption for floodlights
point of power supply to the floodlighting
is significant and is often much more than the
distribution board(s) and thence to each
clubroom and change facilities. Therefore plan
sports floodlighting pole.
for the anticipated installed load and make
early application for any required power supply The cabling arrangement will be devised to suit
upgrades as this will likely take time to implement. the switching flexibility required. Therefore it
is important to either specify or agree with the
By way of example a Class III venue on an
designer the levels of switching flexibility required
oval equal to a full size AFL oval may typically
and whether only certain poles are required to
require 52 floodlights x 2Kw = 104 Kw which is
operate under certain modes of operation.
a substantial load. Class II and Class I venues
will be higher. Underground works (eg. pits and conduits)
The power supply may entail having an electricity The underground works are a significant cost
substation dedicated to the site or installed within element for many floodlight projects due to the
the street which abuts the site. Works also include large site distances around cricket playing fields.
the liaison with the electricity distribution business
to obtain site power supply connection. Such works need to anticipate the trenching,
backfilling, laying of safety warning tapes and
Metering markers in order to install the conduits. The works
will commonly involve under boring of hard paved
Electrical bill metering requires clarification.
surfaces including paths and car park crossings
In many instances metering for existing sports
and the concrete aprons around pavilions and
lighting may be lumped together with pavilion
paved spectator areas.
building services power. Under a new or
upgraded installation it needs to be determined Underground pits and conduits are layed to suit
how the customer wishes to have the electricity the feed out to the sports floodlighting poles
consumption accounted for and what metering and may include ancillary conduits earmarked
tariff is optimal for the site and its usage. for future design such as electronic scoreboards,
bowling machines or allied provisions for
Separate electricity billing of the sports
public lighting.
floodlighting use may well be required
and/or advisable. Lightning protection
Floodlighting distribution boards Design to ensure lightning is safely conveyed to
earth per AS 1768 requirements.
The electrical installation design will need to make
provision for the Electrical Distribution Boards
required to supply the new floodlights. This will
usually be via a dedicated switchboard devoted to
the floodlighting installation and may likely house
the lighting controls where such controls are not
remotely located in the field at each floodlight pole.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 83
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
LIGHTING CAPITAL PROJECT BUDGET ELEMENTS (CONT)

Test, aim and commission Maintenance records

Testing will involve functional checks and test on Maintenance records enable the performance of
the electrical installation switchboard(s) and a the floodlighting installation to be retained through
check to ensure all lighting is functional and safe life. Such records should contain details of the
to operate. routine maintenance procedures, parts details such
as recommended lamps to effect replacements
To obtain the required lighting performance,
and the aiming record as noted above.
close attention to the aiming of the floodlights
is essential. A professionally aimed installation Design and project management
is important to realise the specified design
performance. Design and project management fees will be
expended to undertake design and oversee the
A design aiming diagram is required that shows implementation through construction and final
the position on the ground to which each commissioning and for which due allowance
floodlight is directed. This is an important part of needs to be made.
the installation record and can be used to restore
to designed arrangement should aiming become
disrupted in future.

84 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

LIGHTING OPERATION PROJECT BUDGET ELEMENTS

Lighting operation needs to anticipate cost allowances

for the following elements.

Energy consumption Assessing supplier lighting proposals

Billing costs for energy consumed (Kwhrs) and, Community cricket clubs will often find it
depending on energy tariff structure, power challenging to assess the competing claims of
demand taken (Kw) will occur. lighting suppliers advocating use of their systems.

Maintenance Professional lighting design review of submission

proposals by experienced persons is therefore
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE WILL BE REQUIRED. recommended which can check and compare the
All lamps reduce their light output over their following information:
service life and spot lamp failures will also occur ƒƒLighting Designer and Manufacturer.
from time to time. Costs to make replacement
involves the cost to supply the replacement lamp ƒƒMake and model of floodlights used and their
and the electrical contractor charge for high locations including mounting heights.
access equipment hire and contractor time on site ƒƒMaintenance Illuminance plot (horizontal at
to gain access, effect the lamp replacements and ground level).
test functional operation.
ƒƒMinimum and Maximum illuminances in square
Routine maintenance costs are also associated and infield.
with annual inspections of electrical and
ƒƒUniformities U1 and U2 in square and infield.
structural elements.
ƒƒVertical Illuminance calculations.
For Metal Halide Lamps conventionally used, bulk
lamp replacement will need to factored as lamps ƒƒLight loss factor used with the maintenance
reach the end of their maintained service life. illuminance.
Owing to the costs involved, strategies should ƒƒMaximum Glare Rating at 1.5m above ground at
be considered that target reduced maintenance all standard observer positions and specifically
requirements. Examples include New Solid in the directions viewing the wicket.
State Lighting (eg. LED) technologies and half
ƒƒLamps used with corresponding Ra 8 CRI,
switching schemes that allow lamp groups to be
Colour Temperature and Lumen Maintenance
cycled to equalise and reduce lamp run hours.
Curve.
Operational controls such as remote access and
user identifications and control systems that can ƒƒBasis for Dirt Depreciation Factor applied to the
relay information regarding luminaire operational floodlight type(s).
status and early warning of abnormal operating
ƒƒSpill lighting calculations to AS 4282 at each
conditions are also effective considerations.
site property boundary to include the lighting
LED lighting systems, depending on selection, technical parameters referenced in the standard.
can offer the further capacity for dimming of
ƒƒLuminous Intensity compliance to Aerodrome
lighting levels to accommodate different play
Standard MOS 139 and any other applicable
and usage options, as well as wireless control
aviation standards where the installation is
reporting of operational and maintenance status
within 6kms of an aerodrome.
down to the individual floodlight.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 85
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
LIGHTING FOR INDOOR CRICKET

This section of the Guidance Note refers to two specific and distinct elements
of lighting for indoor cricket:

1. Indoor Cricket courts

2. Indoor practice nets

Indoor Cricket ‘Courts’

The lighting recommendations pertain to the European Standard EN 12193 does considers Indoor
Indoor Cricket ‘court’ play area described in Cricket but the reference area is a larger 32m x 20m
Guidance Note 07 – Indoor Cricket. open hall space rather than a ‘court’. It contains a
range of illuminance recommendations being:
The minimum play size is a rectangular space 28.0-
30.0m long and 10.5-12.0m wide and roofed by flat Class I – 750 Lux; Uniformity Min to avg= 0.7
netting 4.0-4.5m high.
Class II – 500 Lux; Uniformity Min to avg= 0.7
The ball used is a modified softer ball making it
Class III – 300 Lux; Uniformity Min to avg= 0.7
lighter than a conventional outdoor cricket ball but
otherwise has similar characteristics of size and The measurement plane is taken as the ground level.
stitching.
The ECB Indoor Cricket Facilities – Design
Indoor cricket ‘court’ play is designed to Guidelines – TS7 (2011) specifically considers
specifically appeal to a wide range of participants Indoor Cricket Courts and recommends a
of mixed gender with a wide spectrum of abilities. (minimum) average maintained illuminance
It is a fast moving sport designed to maximise level for Club Use to National Level of 500 Lux ;
participation for all players. Uniformity Minimum to Average = 0.8.

The measurement plane is not defined but is

assumed as being at ground level.
Lighting standards and guideline recommendations
It is recommended that Indoor Cricket Courts
Australian Standard AS 2560.2.3 considers the used for competition comply with EN12193 Class
Lighting for Multi-purpose Indoor Sports Centres II requirements (500 Lux) as a minimum which is
and sets a recommendation for competitive play as consistent with current AS 2560.2.2 illuminance
a minimum maintained average illuminance of 500 requirements that have directed multi-purpose
Lux with a uniformity of 0.7 Minimum to Average indoor sports hall specifications.
at 1m above floor level.
Where uniformity is further improved from 0.7 to
There is however no Australian Standard 0.8 it will also permit compliance with the current
specifically directed at the lighting for Indoor ECB Indoor Cricket Facilities – Design Guidelines
Cricket or the subdivision of the internal lit space and uniformities specified for practice nets.
into a series of ‘Courts’.

86 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

Indoor Cricket Practice ‘Nets’
Indoor cricket practice nets anticipate function as per outdoor cricket practice nets with a similar general
size of 33m x 4m.

Lighting standards and guideline recommendations

A key differentiating factor between Indoor Cricket ƒƒClass I equates to Low Level Club / Local Club
Practice Net lighting and Indoor Cricket Courts is
ƒƒClass II equates to Mid-Level Competition
the use of a standard hard cricket ball. As such, the
Regional / Club Level
lighting requirements will be set higher to improve
batter and bowler safety from the ball as a small ƒƒClass III equates to Top Level Competition
fast moving hard projectile. International / National Level.

European Standard EN 12193 considers Indoor For an indoor sports facility intending to cater
‘Cricket Nets’ at the reference area of 33m x 4m. for cricket ‘practice nets’ as opposed to indoor
cricket ‘courts’, hard ball use needs to be
It contains a range of illuminance
anticipated and the capacity to illuminate to the
recommendations being:
above standards is recommended in order to
Class I – 1500 Lux; Uniformity Min to avg= 0.8 deliver the capacity to more safely assess the
ball movement at high speed and mitigate the
Class II – 1000 Lux; Uniformity Min to avg= 0.8
increased potential for injury.
Class III – 750 Lux; Uniformity Min to avg= 0.8
Capacity to flexibility ‘convert down‘ to ‘court’
The measurement plane is taken as ground level. style operation, where desired, could be
accommodated with switch down or dimmed
The above lighting recommendations align with
lighting controls.
those contained in the ‘ECB Facilities Briefs and
Guidance Notes for Indoor Sports Halls with As with outdoor cricket practice nets, take account
Cricket provision – TS3’ in which: of the lighting transmission loss due to nets.

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 87
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
INDOOR CRICKET GENERAL LIGHTING CONSIDERATIONS

Refer to AS 2560.2.2 for general lighting guidance Multi-purpose sports capability

on lighting matters such as:
Consider whether the venue is to cater for other
ƒƒGeneral design objectives sports use to maximise utility and factor any
ƒƒInterior background colour and reflectance restriction on lighting placements and/or designs
ƒƒGlare control that pertain to the other sports use.
ƒƒDaylighting
ƒƒSelection of lighting systems and equipment
Continuation of an event in case of lighting failure
The requirements in the event of lighting failure
Specific note is made of the following aspects.
need to be considered. At a community level
the need to restage training or a match may be
Independent operation able to be managed where the likelihood of such
Consider lighting of each indoor court or practice occurrences are expected to be infrequent (ie.
net on an individual basis such that lighting where mains supply is unusually interrupted).
compliance of one court is not dependent on the In other locations where supply interruptions are
operation of any adjacent net(s) or court(s). more probable, consider the need for power supply
backups and/or hot restrike lamp systems to permit
Background contrasts restoration of sports lighting after an interruption.
Light coloured walls are recommended for
indoor cricket. The ECB Guidelines TS3 and TS7
Safe movement
recommend reflectances of 0.7 be obtained Verify the spectator areas at the fringe of indoor
notably with white painted walls and ceiling. cricket play spaces will be satisfactorily lit by
the contributory light spill from the cricket play
AS 1680.2.2 multi-purpose recommendations are areas and provide ancillary lighting as necessary.
similar for ceilings at 0.6 to 0.8 reflectance and Consider Australian Standard AS 1680.0:2009 sets
0.3 to 0.6 wall reflectance recommended range. 20 Lux as an indoor minimum for safe movement
Matt finishes will help avoid unwanted reflectances in publicly accessible spaces.
from daylight / artificial light sources back to
participants. Exit and emergency lighting
Provide Exit and Emergency lighting in
Glare control from luminaires compliance with the relevant National
To reduce glare to participants and spectators, Construction Code and AS 2293.
positioning away from the normal lines of sight will
help reduce potential for glare.
Controls, operation and maintenance
Lighting installations should be simply controlled
The pitch sets the preferred play orientation. and designed to allow flexibility of operation.
Critical viewing along this axis will be aided by Simple zoning can avoid the need to operate courts
viewing rectangular luminaires endwise. That is or pitches not in use. Capacity to daylight link and/
running rows of luminaires aligned with the pitch or use occupancy sensor lighting controls will help
axis instead of across it. reduce energy and running costs when daylight
Luminaire designs which incorporate reflectors, levels are adequate or when a space is not is use.
lens or louvres designed to control the luminance Controls should be located in non-publically
and high angle light distribution will assist controlled areas such as reception / management
player comfort provided the spacings ensure an offices accessible to duty staff.
overlapping contribution from multiple light sources Consider maintenance access to lighting placed
and a uniform lighting coverage of the play area. above cricket nets.

Daylight Select lamps with long lifetimes to help reduce

the need for frequent access. This is available with
Maximise the use of daylight wherever possible Fluorescent and Solid State Lighting (eg. LED).
with due consideration to shading of roof lights
Select also with regard to capacity to link with
and windows to avoid daylight sky glare or glare Intelligent Energy Management controls to
due to beam sunlight penetration particularly at minimise energy and maintenance burden.
low sun angles.

88 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

DEFINITIONS

The following definitions are derived from AS 2560.2.1, AS 3665, the IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor Cricket
LG - 4.01 and Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets Floodlighting – Queensland Cricket Technical Guidelines.

CIRCLE The line dividing the infield from the outfield.

COLOUR The ability of a light source to faithfully reproduce colour in objects. The CRI is expressed on a scale from 0-100, where 100 is the best.
RENDERING
INDEX (CRI) Sometimes also referenced as Ra or Ra8, the latter denoting the CRI as evaluated with respect to 8 standardised colours.

COLOUR The overall colour appearance of the light itself when referring to a source as either ‘warm’ or ‘cold’. Colour temperature is measured in Kelvin.
TEMPERATURE Lower colour temperature (< 4000K) represents ‘warm’ light; higher (>4000K) represents ‘cool’ light. May be referred to be symbol ‘Tk’.
General term for the electrical equipment to start a High Intensity Discharge (HID) Metal Halide lamp when power is applied and then to
CONTROL GEAR
limit the electrical current once it is running. Sometimes also called the ‘ballast’.
The cricket field of play is typically an oval shaped area covered in grass or artificial turf contained within a defined boundary. There is no
FIELD OF PLAY fixed dimension for the oval size and the diameter can vary. The playing area is demarcated by a line or rope called the boundary. Also
(FOP)
called the Principal Playing Area (PPA).
Visual condition in which there is a discomfort or impairment of vision, or both, caused by an unsuitable distribution or range of
GLARE
luminance, or due to extreme contrasts in the field of vision.
GLARE RATING A numerical rating on scale of 0 to 100 representing the degree of glare from a lighting system for given observer positions and viewing
(GR) directions. Higher values correspond to greater glare from the lighting system. Refer CIE 112.
The intensity of light falling on a surface and is measured in lux. It is independent of surface colour or texture and simple to measure
using an illuminance meter. Commonly represented by the symbol ‘E’. May be either the Initial or Maintenance Illuminance and may be
commonly measured as ‘horizontal’ or ‘vertical’ where the following definitions apply:
ƒƒInitial Average Illuminance – that initially provided by the lighting system when it is new and by convention after lamps are aged
100 hrs. At this time there is taken to be no depreciation of light due to lamp, luminaire or dirt depreciation factors.
ILLUMINANCE
ƒƒMaintenance average lluminance – The value below which the average illuminance on the specified surface is not allowed to fall. It is
the minimum illuminance at which maintenance operations, such as replacing lamps and cleaning the luminaires are to be carried out.
ƒƒHorizontal Illuminance – The value calculated or measured incident on the flat playing field directly from above, that is the incident
vertically at 90 degrees to it. Measured with an illuminance meter on the ground facing up.
ƒƒVertical Illuminance – The value calculated or measured incident on a defined vertical plane at a specified height and facing in the
specified direction. Measured with an illuminance meter flat to the said surface facing in the specified direction.
ILLUMINANCE A device for measuring illuminance (E) in Lux. Sometimes also referred to as a Lux Meter.
METER
INFIELD An area 27.4m from the pitch centreline.
LAMP The light source – bulb, tube.
LOUVRE An external optical assembly used to control light distribution from a luminaire – typically a frame with several parallel blades.
LUMINAIRE The international term for a light fitting into which a lamp is installed – also called a floodlight.
LUX The unit of measurement of illuminance.
OBTRUSIVE Spill light which, because of quantitative, directional or spectral attributes in a given context, gives rise to annoyance, discomfort,
LIGHT distraction or a reduction in the ability to see essential information.
OUTFIELD The Outfield is the part of the field of play between the infield and the boundary.
The pitch is a rectangular area of the field of play 20.12m in length and between 1.83m to 3.05m width (range depending on surface type
PITCH and level of competition played), nominally in the centre of the field of play. Greater definitions of pitch types and dimensions is provided
in Guidance Note 02 – Pitches and Playing Fields.
SQUARE The square is a specially prepared area of the field of play within which the match pitch is situated.
Uniformity is expressed as a ratio. U1 is the minimum illuminance divided by average illuminance taken across the calculation /
UNIFORMITY
measurement area. U2 is the minimum illuminance divided by maximum illuminance taken across the calculation / measurement area.
The rate of change of illuminance over a defined area. Determined, usually from calculated illuminance figures, as a portion relating
UNIFORMITY the illuminance at a nominated grid point and the illuminance at the eight immediately adjacent surrounding grid points (eg. 20% for
GRADIENT 5m signifies a change of 20% using a 5m grid). (Note: The convention of specifying U1 and U2 this way in Australia is opposite to that
commonly found in overseas publications).

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 89
SECTION 2 Guidance Note 04 Floodlighting
QUALIFICATIONS AND FURTHER REFERENCES

Target Audience – Community facilities only Ancillary lighting considerations

This Guidance Note is directed at community level Lighting guidance is focussed on competitive
cricket facilities and not elite levels of play. They play and training for Cricket. This Guidance
do not cover television broadcast requirements Note does not seek to address lighting needs
for cricket. Note that in the event a venue requires for other sports codes, public lighting, safety
design to cater for elite levels of play and/or lighting, emergency lighting or interior lighting
colour television coverage, specialist advice is requirements for building services compliance
recommended at an early stage. References may including spectator areas.
also include IESANZ Lighting Guide for Outdoor
Cricket LG - 4.01 for outdoor cricket venues and Risk assessment and insurer requirements
relevant publications of ‘Free TV Australia’. The intended lighting of a community cricket
facility, and the selection of a particular lighting
Further project specifications are needed for standard, or Class, needs to be discussed and
This Guidance Note is not intended to substitute agreed on an individual venue basis at the outset
the project specifications that will be necessary to by the body responsible for its development. This
take account of the unique set of circumstances should be in consultation with the relevant Cricket
pertaining to each individual project. Be Association, competition administrator and the
aware that some aspects will likely arise that venue’s insurers to ensure lighting provided is to a
are not considered in this Guidance Note as satisfactory standard for the level of risk assessed
a consequence. as associated with the levels of play it is intended
will occur under floodlighting.
Other regulations need consideration
Consider the further requirements of local
Conditions of use
authorities and changes in regulations and Every care has been taken but this Guidance Note
standards that will occur from time to time. is not intended as a substitute for professional
This Guidance Note is intended to co-exist oversight and consideration of the lighting
with the regulatory framework in which each particulars of a specific project and Cricket
facility will be developed. Australia accepts no liability for harm or damage
which may be incurred by club or person as a
Subject to change result of implementing these guidelines.
As an area not specifically standardised in
Australia, upgrade and amendment to the
Sample designs, case studies and costing examples
Floodlighting Guidance Note may occur from This Guidance Note does not include sample
time to time without notice to reflect experience designs or specific lighting case studies at this
and practices considered worth inclusion or time. Some sample outdoor Cricket designs
necessitating amendment to the information in may be found in the Cricket Oval and Practice
this Guidance Note. Wickets Floodlighting - Queensland Cricket
Technical Guidelines.
With the development of night cricket venues,
consideration will be given at a future time
to production of Cricket Floodlighting Case
Studies, sample designs and budgetary
costings as a means of providing further
implementation guidance.

90 COMMUNITY CRICKET FACILITY GUIDELINES VERSION SEPTEMBER 2015

Reference documents
Guidance has been drawn from the following publications.
1. IESANZ Lighting Guideline 9. Guide to the Artificial Lighting of Hockey
Series LG-4.01 Sports Lighting Cricket Pitches – International Hockey Federation
(FIH) – 6th Edition
2. Cricket Oval and Practice Wickets
Floodlighting - Queensland Cricket Technical 10. Australian Standard AS 4282 – Control of
Guidelines; - Queensland Cricket & DMA the Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting
Professional Engineers
11. Australian Standard AS 1680 Series –
3. CIE-112 – 1994 Glare Evaluation System for use Interior & Workplace Lighting
with Outdoor Sports and Area Lighting
12. European Standard EN 12193 :2007
4. Australian Standard AS 2560.1 – 2002, Light and Lighting – Sports Lighting
Sports Lighting – General Principals
13. Civil Aviation Authority MOS139 – Manual of
5. Australian Standard AS 2560.2.2 – Operating Standards Part 139 – Aerodromes
1986, Sports Lighting – Lighting of
14. Department of Sport & Recreation
multipurpose indoor sports centres
Western Australia, Sports Dimensions Guide
6. Australian Standard AS 2560.2.3 –
15. ECB Facilities Briefs and Guidance Notes
2007 Sports Lighting for football (all codes)
for Indoor Sports Halls with Cricket provision
7. Australian Standard AS 2560.2.6 – – TS3
1994 Sports Lighting – Baseball & Softball
16. ECB Indoor Cricket Facilities –
8. Australian Standard AS 2560.2.7 – Design Guidelines – TS7 (2011)
1994 Sports Lighting – Outdoor Hockey

© CRICKET AUSTRALIA 91