Clare Balding made an announcement as BBC's tennis coverage was brought to a halt at Queen's. A match between Francisco Cerundolo and Jenson Brooksby was halted during the second round due to a technical issue.
Power Cut Halts Play
Clare Balding stepped in when the last second-round match at Queen's was paused for a technical issue. Francisco Cerundolo was facing Jenson Brooksby in the final match of the day on the Andy Murray Arena. They were left waiting on court during the second game after a localised power cut meant the electronic line calling stopped working.
Chair umpire James Keothavong told the players to stop for a few minutes before confirming there was a power issue. Balding then informed viewers at home that the problem was due to the use of automated line calling at ATP Tour events, meaning no linespeople were available to make calls.
Balding's Explanation
Balding said: "They've got an issue with power. As you heard James Keovathong say, there is an issue with power on court, and also in our commentary box, a localised power cut here at Queen's. Andrew Castle is alongside me, luckily no problems with your power."
Castle replied: "I didn't start with any so that's fine! Can't do without what you don't have. I wonder what that is, maybe a generator out the back or something like that."
Tournament Referee Steps In
Tournament referee Denise Parnell came down to the court while the players were made to wait at their benches. Cerundolo had broken in the first game and was serving at 1-0, 40-15 when they were asked to stop.
With no linesmen around, the only alternative was to ask Keothavong to call the lines if the power issues continued. Balding asked: "Well, line calls are now automated, there are no line judges out there, so does that mean that system isn't working either?"
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