Storm Dave has battered Durham's Riverside ground in Chester-le-Street, causing significant structural damage and forcing the abandonment of the third day's play in the County Championship match against Kent.
A scaffolding structure supporting a sightscreen at the Finchale End was toppled by powerful gusts, damaging fencing and collapsing across seating areas. Grounds staff worked throughout the morning to clear debris, including the large scaffold and a wheeled cover that had been blown into the East Stand.
Despite cleanup efforts, no cricket was possible on Sunday. Spectators were eventually admitted after 1:00 PM BST, but the match remained suspended due to water infiltration on the pitch caused by the displaced covers.
"The main issue now appears to be the pitch," noted BBC Radio Newcastle's Martin Emmerson. "Gusts of 70mph hit the ground overnight, and one of the wheeled covers is lying on its back in the East Stand. That means there's quite a bit of water on the track."
The storm, which brought widespread travel disruption and flood warnings across northern regions, has left its mark on Durham's season opener. Stadium officials confirmed they would implement alternative arrangements to assist batsmen with the damaged sightscreen area.
Durham will resume their second innings on Monday's final day at 83-2, holding a commanding 221-run lead over Kent. The north-east county, relegated from Division One last summer, now faces additional logistical challenges as they seek to start their domestic campaign with a victory.