Surrey to trial Covid-safe technology as spectators return to the Kia Oval

British company Restrata will trial its system during Surrey's Bob Willis Trophy fixture against Middlesex

Surrey will employ technology to monitor spectators when the Bob Willis Trophy gets underway this weekend.

British company Restrata will trial its 'Covid-safe' system during Surrey’s fixture against Middlesex at the Kia Oval.

The technology will be employed in order to keep track of social distancing and capacity at the match which is due to be attended by 2,500 spectators.

A sample of 200 spectators each day will be given Bluetooth tracking ‘fobs’ so their movement can be monitored in a centralised control room within the ground.  

The trial will demonstrate how technology can be deployed to address some of the key challenges of hosting live events attended by large numbers of spectators in particular contact tracing following any suspected outbreak of Covid-19.        

Richard Gould, Chief Executive of Surrey CCC, added: “While is it is hugely exciting to open our doors once again to cricket fans, our priority has to be the safety of everyone visiting and working at the ground. 

“We have been working closely with DCMS and other governing and safety bodies to develop a safe environment for spectators, staff and players and are delighted to have been allowed to extend the Kia Oval trial – under the Government’s guidelines.  We are excited to better understand what role technology can play in this process.”

Chris St. George, Chairman of Restrata, said: “I am delighted that Restrata can play such a prominent role in this larger scale pilot.  We are doing this on the back of supporting the ECB with the first ever biosecure Test series. I think technology has a crucial role to play in enabling the safe return of supporters, in increasing numbers, to major sports this Summer and into the Autumn, not only cricket but also Premier League Football.”

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