The surface should be hosed down with high pressure hoses to remove dead grass and foreign soil and other materials. To enable work to be flush with the perimeter of the clay, locate the extremities of the wicket area or square and mark it with a line marker. Roll the area with a 1 tonne smooth drum roller, normally used for wicket preparation, in at least two directions so as to level the surface. This work should be carried out when the soil is sufficiently dry.

Double cut the area as low as possible, then scarify the surface in at least two directions to remove thatch and any other debris. Set scarifier blades so that they are just cutting the surface of the clay, at this height the machine will travel at approximately walking pace.

Do not scarify deeply, as this will cause cracking during the cricket season. After scarifying, use a vacuum or sweeper to pick up loose material from the surface.

Top dressing.

Differences in levels can be rectified with a 3m c 1m "level-lawn" dragged over established level rails. If available, a laser-leveling blade, mounted beneath a small tractor, set to the desired gradient can also be used. Using fine crushed clay wicket soil, broadcast the soil with shovels to attain an even coverage. Cover the area with approximately 5mm of soil and level using the "level-lawn" or tractor.

Fertilize and irrigate according to weather conditions as the soil needs to remain damp for some 2 to 3 weeks.

Any areas that are devoid of grass may now be replanted by stolonising or "sprigging". (planting stolons at 1/2" to 1" centres).