Plastic pitch plan for Millennium Stadium

Published on 17/12/2012 00:00

world cup: The chief executive of the Welsh Rugby Union, Roger Lewis, says they will consider using an artificial pitch in the Millennium Stadium for matches during the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

At least six games are to be played in Cardiff during the tournament and, with the turf currently being replaced several times a year, the WRU believes using a synthetic surface could be a practical alternative.

“[An artificial grass pitch] is being given serious consideration. We are looking at the implications,” Lewis said.

A layer of stone, a thick black rubber shock pad and a covering of artificial green yarn 5cm deep with an in-fill of black rubber crumb make up the surface, which has been approved by the International Rugby Board.

The only concern the WRU has is whether the pitch will be able to cope with hosting music shows, which regularly occur at the stadium. “They use some very serious trucks for their equipment,” Lewis said. “We’d need to be satisfied that the new surface can take it.”