The Bantams’ Sky Bet League Two visit of Salford City - scheduled for 3.00pm tomorrow (Saturday February 13) - has been postponed due to a frozen pitch.
Following a pitch inspection at 1.00pm this afternoon, the playing surface at the Utilita Energy Stadium has been deemed unsafe for use, and the fixture has been cancelled by the EFL.
As a result of freezing conditions this week, and with temperatures set to drop as low as minus six degrees Celsius again this evening, the game has been postponed on the basis the pitch will still be unplayable by 3.00pm tomorrow.
City’s chief executive officer, Ryan Sparks, said: “We have made every effort to ensure tomorrow’s game could have happened, with the pitch covered and heating devices brought in - to battle the frost.
“Our ground staff, who have worked through the night - and tirelessly over the course of the week - deserve a great deal of credit for everything they have done, in going beyond the call of duty.
“Unfortunately, our efforts have proven futile, and the weather looks set to worsen still over the next 24 hours. Not only does this wipe out tomorrow, it sadly brings too much doubt into play for a potential Sunday rearrangement.
“In our view, a significant proportion of the surface would be playable. However, towards the TL Dallas Stand, the pitch is struggling to deal with conditions being thrown at it.
“We have kept in close contact with Salford City, and I would like to thank Gary Neville and his colleagues for their co-operation. Both clubs have explored every avenue in an attempt to avoid this outcome.
“We are very disappointed the game has been postponed, and we must now fit another fixture into what is becoming an increasingly busy schedule of rearranged ties.
“Our full attention now switches to Tuesday evening and ensuring there are no threats facing our Sky Bet League Two meeting with Morecambe.”
Supporters who purchased an iFollow video match pass for tomorrow’s encounter will automatically be granted access for the rearranged clash. Announcements on when this will be scheduled to take place will be made in due course.