This summer’s record drought has forced a football league to delay the start of its season because “rock hard” pitches are a danger to its players. The 2026/27 season in the Anglian Combination League of 85 amateur teams in Norfolk and Suffolk was due to start next weekend. In a statement addressed to all leagues clubs, players and officials, it confirmed the start of the season will be delayed until 29 August. “Most of our league clubs pitches are grass and the ground conditions are extremely dry and pitches rock hard.” The FA does not hold figures on the number of leagues that have been forced to postpone the start of next season because of the drought.