Merton is packed full of some of the greatest cricket facilities around London. The cricket pitches in this south west borough of the city are more often than not grass surface, although a few of the venues have made the decision to put in astro-turf wickets. These make it easier to look after for the groundsman and sports venue staff. A selection of the cricket venues have cricket nets for players wanting to work on their batting technique or bowling rhythm. Bowling machines are sometimes available for cricket lovers wishing to focus solely on batting.