The Blues have installed a brand new SISGrass Hybrid surface similar to the recent installation at the Luzhniki Stadium in Russia where the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final will be played.

Working on the project in association with Premier Pitches and MJ Abbott the laser guided stitching of the turf took place at St. Andrew’s last week in preparation for the new season under boss Harry Redknapp.

The laser-guided installation consists of 95% natural turf alongside 5% specially designed PE yarn, stitched into ground. The company behind the installation, SIS PItches, boast the new surface will offer increased pitch stability and claim it delivers considerably more playing hours than a natural grass surface.

Martin Kelly, Head Groundsman at Birmingham City, commented; “We are really happy with the installation of the new SISGrass surface and can’t wait to get the season underway on it.

“As you would expect a lot of research went into the decision for a new playing surface and SISGrass was the clear winner - the service from start to finish has been superb.”

SIS Pitches UK Project Director, Phil Blackwell, added; “St. Andrew’s is an iconic stadium in the UK and we are proud to have installed SISGrass for the new Championship season.”

Andy Cole, Consultant at iTurf Management, added; “This is a significant investment into the pitch by the owners at Birmingham City and it will give them a stable and reliable surface for many many years to come.”