Notts Sport, a leading innovator in sports and play surfacing in the UK, has announced the launch of CocoTurf Cricket, the world’s first 100% natural and plastic-free artificial cricket surface. This revolutionary development is set to transform sustainable facility development for cricket at all levels of the game.
The CocoTurf Cricket system is built on Notts Sport’s pioneering CocoTurf® technology, which has been specifically re-engineered to meet the demands of cricket performance. The surface is made entirely from natural materials, including coconut fibres, jute backing, and certified natural latex, making it the first of its kind in the world. This achievement marks a significant milestone in reducing the environmental impact of sports.
The first installation of CocoTurf Cricket has already taken place at the prestigious Lord’s Cricket Ground, setting an example for elite facilities to embrace natural and plastic-free alternatives. The surface has undergone rigorous cricket performance testing, including a Ball Pitch Impact Assessment, which has confirmed its consistent bounce, realistic pace, and long-term durability, comparable to professionally prepared non-turf wickets. The surface is also in the process of receiving official recognition from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
CocoTurf Cricket has been developed to address the growing need for environmentally responsible solutions within the sport. With increasing concerns over microplastic shedding, PFAS contamination, and the environmental cost of synthetic materials, CocoTurf Cricket provides a future-proofed alternative that aligns with the sport’s sustainability objectives. The system is Oeko-Tex certified, 100% recyclable, has a dense pile weight of 1,300 g/m², and boasts an exceptional water infiltration rate of 15,166 mm/hr, ensuring reliable use throughout the year.
One square metre of CocoTurf Cricket uses fibres from 6.5 coconuts, meaning that approximately 585 coconuts contribute to a single-lane match facility. This innovative approach transforms natural by-products into high-performance surfacing technology and reduces reliance on petrochemical-based materials. The product is also protected under International Patent Application No. PCT/GB2024/050422 (pending).
Duncan Bennett, CEO of Notts Sport, said:
“The launch of CocoTurf Cricket is a major breakthrough for cricket facilities. For the first time, the sport has access to an artificial surface that performs like a professionally prepared pitch but is made entirely from natural materials. This is a significant step towards eliminating plastics from non-turf systems and creating facilities that not only protect players but also the environment.”
Adam Walker, Technical Manager at Notts Sport, added:
“CocoTurf Cricket has been engineered with players in mind, while also maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. This surface demonstrates that it is possible to have both high performance and environmental responsibility.”
With over 40 years of experience in delivering cricket surfaces across the UK and worldwide, Notts Sport continues to lead innovation in the industry by offering solutions that support the future of the game.
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