Following the abandonment of the Round 11 match, Manchester Thunder vs. Hertfordshire Mavericks on Saturday 2nd April after the first quarter, the League Investigation Committee has determined that the fixture shall be replayed in its entirety.
Manchester Thunder was found to be in breach of competition rules for being unable to provide a safe playing surface and a financial penalty was imposed. Thunder apologised to the League and to Mavericks for the condition of the playing arena. In accordance with the competition rules, dates for a replay were offered but no agreement could be reached.
The Committee therefore intervened, sought input from both franchises and offered a further date, with Hertfordshire Mavericks being required to confirm its preference. In reaching its decision the Committee took into account a number of factors, including but not limited to the need to preserve the integrity of the competition, the fixture pattern for the franchises at this late stage of the season, the commercial implications and the impact on all franchises.
It has concluded that the match is now to be replayed in Manchester on Monday 25th April at 6:15pm.
This decision is final and binding. England Netball would like to extend its thanks to both franchises for their cooperation in this process.
Rearranged Round 11 VNSL Fixture: Manchester Thunder v Hertfordshire Mavericks, Monday 25th April, 6:15pm – Manchester Thunderdome.
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Official Statement from Manchester Thunder
As many of you know, England Netball have given us a time of 6.15pm on April 25 for our home match against Hertfordshire Mavericks.
The circumstances of having to call off the original match and reschedule were not something any of us could have predicted and presented a challenge for England Netball of finding a new time and date for this fixture which suited both teams and both sets of fans.
You will also know that leaking roofs are never convenient for anyone and we appreciate England Netball’s understanding and their efforts in finding a solution which, while not ideal, at least allows us to complete this important Superleague fixture..
Most of all, we appreciate your understanding and we hope that as many of you as possible will turn out to cheer on these two great Superleague teams on Monday, April 25.