HWCL handbook 2025

Handbook 2025 www.hertswomenscl.co.uk

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Welcome to a New Hertfordshire League

Welcome to the inaugural season of the Hertfordshire Women’s Cricket League! We are delighted to have 26 teams across Herts and Beds join us in what we hope will be an exciting season of cricket.

As we look to the future of women’s cricket in the HWCL, we hope to have laid the foundations for our players to enjoy an inclusive cricket offer. This begins with entry level cricket, in the form of a softball league, and hits the top with a competitive hardball premier league consisting of two divisions playing multi-format matches - T20 & T30 or T35.

We have created the Herts 100 Cup and Plate competitions, with a big Finals day on 7 September, at Berkhamsted. Those competitions are intended to aid development and a great entry point for softball players/ teams looking to transition into hardball.

By providing multiple of playing offerings and formats, we hope to encourage more women to join this fantastic game, and girls who currently play in the Herts Junior League now have a clear pathway into women’s club cricket that is more accessible that ever.

We will be inviting feedback at the end of the season to help us to continue to build on the HWCL. In the meantime, we hope you all have a fantastic season of cricket.

Rebecca Kelly

Spirit of Cricket

Cricket owes much of its appeal and enjoyment to the fact it should be played both according to the Laws, and within the Spirit of Cricket.

The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains, but extends to all players, umpires and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents.

Respect is central to the Spirit of Cricket.

- Respect your captain, team-mates, opponents and the authority of the umpires.

- Play hard and play fair.

- Accept the umpire’s decision.

- Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct, and encourage others to do likewise.

- Show self-discipline, even when things go against you.

- Congratulate the opposition on their successes, and enjoy those of your own team.

- Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match, whatever the result.

Cricket is an exciting game that encourages leadership, friendship and teamwork, which brings together people from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the Spirit of Cricket.

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Contents

Introduction.........................................................................................................5 Key Match Day Contacts....................................................................................5 Hardball League Playing Conditions..................................................................6 Playing Rules Section A: Match Rules for 20 Over Matches..................................................10 Section B: Match Rules for 35 Over Matches..................................................15 Section C: Match Rules for 30 Over Matches..................................................21 Women’s Softball League Rules......................................................................27 Women’s Hundred Cup Competition Playing Conditions.................................29 Women’s Hundred Cup Competition Rules.....................................................31 Women’s Hundred Plate Competition Rules....................................................35 Umpires contact information 2025...................................................................37 Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Procedure...................................................................38 Fixtures 2025....................................................................................................40 Safeguarding Policy Statement........................................................................42 Registration and Match Day Procedures.........................................................44 After the Match.................................................................................................45 Substitutes and Runners..................................................................................46 Safety Guidelines.............................................................................................47 Guidance and advice.......................................................................................48 Concussion guidelines.....................................................................................50 Disciplinary Procedures....................................................................................51 Facilites Marking Guidleines............................................................................52 Clubs, teams & captains..................................................................................53

Which cricket ball to use Premiership Readers 'Superior Crown' 5oz Pink Championship/Cup & Plate Readers 'County Match' 5oz Pink Softball Recommended ball - Readers Supaball (Pink) 4

Introduction

This book provides all the match day information about the new Hertfordshire Women's Cricket League. It is an esential guide for captains, players and officials.

Check you are looking at the correct match rules for the version of the game in which you are playing/officiating.

Also check the various administrative tasks than must take place such as swapping of team sheets, naming teams online, and reporting results..

NOTE that all results must be recorded on the League’s play-cricket. com website.

Towards the back of this book are contact details for the umpires and captains, together with location details for all clubs.

Key Match Day Contacts

In the event of a serious problem that needs to be resolved on the match day then please contact one of the people below. Remember, these people could be involved in a match elsewhere, either umpiring or scoring.

Safeguarding Andy Knill-Jones E: safeguarding@hertswomenscl.co.uk

Umpires Panel Co-ordinator Anthony Levy T: 0208 441 9297 / 07904 309926 E: Anthony.d.levy@btinternet.com

Discipline George White T: 07968 349933 E: discipline@hertswomenscl.co.uk

Results/Fixture Secretary Richard Mason T: 07491 834644 E: results@hertspremiercl.co.uk

Websites/Social media www.hertswomenscl.co.uk https://hertswomenscl.play-cricket.com @hertswomenscl

hertswomenscl hertswomenscl 5

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1.1 1.2

1.3

Women’s Hardball League Playing Conditions The conduct of all matches will be governed by The Laws of Cricket (2017 Code 3rd Edition - 2022) and all relevant ECB directives and guidelines, except as stated otherwise in these rules.

In the Premier Division, all clubs will play each other home and away on specific dates set by the League. Matches shall be one innings each. Matches in Weeks 1 to 3 and 9 to 10 will be played under the 20 overs match rules specified in Section A. Matches in Weeks 4 to 8 will be played under the 35 overs match rules specified in Section B. In the Championship, all clubs will play each other once on specific dates set by the League. Matches shall be one innings each. Matches in Weeks 1 to 3 and 9 to 11 will be played under the 20 overs match rules specified in Section A. Matches in Weeks 4 to 8 will be played under the 30 overs match rules specified in Section C.

2.

Coloured clothing

3.

Umpires and Scorers

3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5

4.

4.1

All sides are required to wear coloured clothing. Batters and wicket-keepers are recommended and encouraged to wear coloured pads.

Teams in the Premier Division will be provided with two panel umpires to officiate at each match.

Panel umpires will be paid by the League. The level and method of reimbursement will be determined from time to time by the League Executive Committee.

Teams in the Championship are recommended to provide a qualified umpire who is a member of the ECB ACO and has completed both stage 1 and 2 courses or their equivalents.

All teams are expected to provide a scorer at each match who should not be a player involved in that match.

In the Premier Division, it is expected that the scorer should have a minimum of 2 years’ experience who is capable of using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method on Play-Cricket.

Venue (Pitches, Outfield and Surrounds)

4.2

The boundary must be defined, and markers used if available. The boundary will be a minimum of 45 metres from the middle wicket from each end (if the ground dimensions allow), maximum of 55 metres each end at a 45-degree angle.

Some venues may vary depending upon limitations.

5.

Ground and Cancellation – Premier Division

5.1 6

Up to one hour before the scheduled start time covers shall be used at the discretion of the home club and its groundsman to protect the pitch.

Playing Conditions - Hardball League

5.2 5.3

The umpires shall be responsible for decisions concerning the fitness of the ground for play and the use of covers from one hour before the scheduled start time.

No game shall be cancelled without the explicit agreement of at least one of the appointed umpires, or a deputy from the umpires panel nominated either by one of the appointed umpires or the umpires co-ordinator. An umpire attending to inspect the ground may request reasonable travelling expenses not exceeding £10 from the home club, which will be payable as specified in 3.2 above.

6.

Ground and Cancellation - Championship

7.

Covers

8.

Team Sheets

6.1

8.1

8.2 8.3 8.4

Prior to the toss the home side is the ground authority for all games and is the sole arbiter as to whether or not the ground is fit for play.

After the toss, the following shall apply with respect to the fitness of ground and the weather: • Where there are two non-playing umpires, they shall be the sole arbiters.

• Where there is one non-playing umpire, then if there is no agreement between the captains, the umpire’s decision shall prevail.

• Where there are no non-playing umpires the responsibility for determining the suitability of the conditions shall be with the two captains.

They are to act having proper regard for their responsibilities in relation to the safety and safeguarding of all participants. If the two captains are unable to reach agreement a non-playing committee member of the home club shall be responsible for the decision. If no non-playing committee member is available then play will be suspended. Having suspended play it shall only be resumed with the consent of both captains.

Covering of pitches and bowlers’ run-ups shall be allowed after play has commenced. Where only partial covers are available, to ensure play can resume as quickly as possible, bowlers’ run-ups shall be covered up to a distance not exceeding five feet in front of the popping crease.

Captains must pass team sheets to the umpires prior to the toss taking place. Team sheets will contain names of players and, if applicable, identify all players aged under 18 and which players fall within the ECB fast bowling directive age groups (e.g. U19, U17 etc.).

A substitute player may be named as the 12th player on the sheet but is not permitted to bat, bowl or keep wicket.

Umpires and the opposition captain must be notified who the person of authority aged 18 years or older is on the team sheet in respect of the duty of care for younger players.

Where a team is not able to field eleven players, the league encourages teams to still play even when they are short of players. The minimum number of players required to constitute a team will be seven.

Playing Conditions - Hardball League

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9.

9.1 9.2 9.3

Balls

All league fixtures will be played with cricket balls that have been approved by the League (see inside back cover).

One new ball will be used from the commencement of each innings. New balls are to be supplied by the home club.

Home clubs must ensure that at least two spare new balls (one for use in each innings if required), of the correct make and grade and a selection of suitable spare balls of varying ages and use are available to the umpires prior to the start of the match. In its inaugural season, spare used balls may be used from the previous season of the HCWCL until clubs build a batch of HWCL balls. The umpires may delay the start of a match if no suitable spare balls are provided.

10.

Interference by Weather – Duckworth Lewis Stern Method

11.

Results

12.

Fielding Time out, Coaching During a match

13.

Marking

10.1 Whenever possible, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method will be used to calculate the target score.

10.2 If the umpires (or captains, where there are no non-playing umpires) decide that it is not possible to obtain a target score by using the DLS method, this decision shall be agreed before the toss and the scorers informed.

11.1 The standard HPCL rules will apply to the reporting of match results.

11.2 In addition to 11.1 the home team is responsible for posting the match result on play-cricket, as follows: a) By 10pm on the day of the match: the team totals, wickets taken, overs bowled and result. b) By 11pm on the Wednesday following the match: the full scorecard including names of match officials. c) Failure to meet these requirements will result in a fine of £30 for each occasion, payable by the home club to the League.

12.1 Coaches, scorers and non-players are not permitted to coach or enter the field of play whilst the match is in progress.

12.2 Umpires, and coaches who are umpiring, are not permitted to coach in any format whilst the match is in progress. They must remain impartial during the match.

12.3 For Championship games played under the 30 over match rules, the fielding captain may call a fielding timeout so that coaches may provide tactical guidance to the team. This will be the only form of coaching allowed during the game. The batting team coach may also provide tactical guidance to the batting pair during this time out. Such timeouts are restricted to 1 per innings, must not exceed 2 minutes in time and may only be called by the fielding team.

13.1 In the Premier Division the captains will mark umpires’ performance using the facility on Who’s The Umpire in accordance with the rules set out within this handbook.

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Playing Conditions - Hardball League

13.2 In the Premier Division the umpires will mark the pitch, team discipline and facilities as well as reporting any instances of misconduct.

13.3 In the Championship the captains will mark the facilities using the facility on the Play-Cricket website.

14.

Discipline & Disciplinary Points

15.

Junior Players and ECB Fast Bowling Directives

16.

Clubs with Multiple Teams

17.

Players Registered with Multiple Clubs

14.1 The standard HPCL Disciplinary rules will apply.

14.2 Law 42 will apply except that when a Level 1 or Level 2 offence has been committed by a member of the batting side, Laws 42.2.2 and 42.3.2 shall be replaced by ‘Together the umpires shall inform the batters at the wicket and each incoming batter that an offence at this level has occurred and, as soon as practicable, inform the captain of the batting side.’ Refer to the table within this handbook for guidance concerning dissent and serious dissent.

15.1 The minimum age for open age cricket in the HWCL is the U13 age group.

For juniors playing in the HWCL Premiership, the junior must be in Year 8 (if a county age group player), and at least 12 years old, or Year 9 (if a club player), and at least 13 years old on the 1st September of the preceding year. Further, the junior’s parents, club coach and an independent Level 2 coach (usually a county coach) must sign and adhere to the terms set out in the HWCL U13 consent form which can be found on the HWCL website.

15.2 At least 50% of the intended team players must be aged 15 years or older unless agreed by both captains.

15.3 The ECB fast bowling directive (published in the league handbook) shall apply to all league games and failure to comply will result in a 10 point penalty on each occasion.

16.1 If a club has two or more teams entered in the Women’s Hardball League, movement between the teams must be restricted to a genuine need.

16.2 Clubs must name 6 first team players who are ineligible to play in the second team. These named players are expected to be the star players in that team e.g. a county women’s or county U18s player, the 1st team captain, or the top run scorer or top wicket taker from the previous season.

16.3 Exemptions to this rule must be approved by the HWCL sub-committee and due to a genuine need e.g. injury. It is the expectation of the HWCL that if a club has two or more teams, they have the appropriate squad size to sustain this.

17.1 A player registered to a HWCL team may also play for a Saturday team in open cricket even if this is at a different club.

17.2 A player who plays for a women’s softball club team may play for a different club who has a women’s hardball league team, but only if their designated softball team does not have a women’s hardball league team established.

Playing Conditions - Hardball League

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17.3 A player who plays for a women’s Herts Hundred Cup or Plate team may play for a different club who has a women’s hardball league team, but only if their designated Hundred team does not have a women’s hardball league team established.

17.4 A junior player whose club does not have a women’s team may play open age women’s cricket for a different club.

18.

League Positions

19.

Promotion and Relegation

League positions in each division will be determined by the total number of points gained less penalty points. In the event of two or more clubs finishing on equal points, league position will be determined in the following order: • The side with the highest net run rate from completed matches, but if still level • The side with the highest runs per wicket, calculated by aggregating all runs scored in completed matches divided by the total number of wickets lost.

a) b) c)

At the end of each season a system of promotion and relegation will operate as follows: The side finishing 6th in the Premier Division will be relegated to the Championship.

The side finishing 1st in the Championship will be promoted to the Premier Division. Only a club's 1st XI is eligible for promotion to the Premier Division.

In the event of a side that qualifies for promotion from the Championship not wishing to accept, or not meeting the criteria for promotion, then the League’s executive committee shall determine the composition of the sides in the Premier Division and Championship for the following season.

Section A: Match Rules for 20 Over Matches

1.

Duration

2.

Hours of Play

1.1.

1.2.

2.1.

One innings per side, each limited to a maximum of 20 overs.

In a match that has a delayed start or is interrupted each side must have faced (or had the opportunity to face) a minimum of 5 overs to constitute a match.

2.2.

Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 5.00pm. Declarations are not permitted.

The interval between innings shall be 20 minutes.

3.

Over Rate

3.1.

3.2.

10

The fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the 20th over within 75 minutes of playing time.

In the event of them failing to do so, one fewer fielder shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area in 6.2 and 6.3 than would normally be the case in the Powerplay overs in progress at the time. All penalties in this Hardball League - T20 match rules

3.3.

3.4.

3.5.

4.

4.1.

4.2.

4.3.

4.4.

4.5.

4.6.

5.

regard will be imposed at the end of the over in progress when the scheduled or re-scheduled cessation time for the innings was exceeded. The full quota of overs will be completed.

In reduced over matches, the fielding side has a one over leeway in addition to any time that the umpires may allow for stoppages.

Umpires are instructed to apply a strict interpretation of time wasting by the batters (5 run penalties). Batters are expected to be ready for the start of a new over as soon as the bowler is ready to bowl.

Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding side of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting side shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made.

Delayed Start and Interruptions

If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 60 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded.

The latest start time for a match reduced to 5 overs per side shall be 4.00pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.

A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 5 overs per side, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of overs originally allocated.

The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions.

Interrupted matches

First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs.

The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 8 minutes of playing time lost.

Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the side batting second to face the same number of overs as the side batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 4 minutes per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings.

Timed Out

The incoming batter must be in a position to take guard, or for her partner to be ready to receive the next ball, within 1 minute 30 seconds of the fall of the Hardball League - T20 match rules

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previous wicket. Any infringement of this rule shall result in the incoming batter being dismissed Timed Out by the umpires. An appeal by the fielding side is not required.

6.

6.1.

6.2.

6.3.

6.4.

6.5.

6.6.

6.7.

Fielding Restrictions

Two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 25 yards. The ends of each semi-circle shall be joined to the other by a straight line drawn on the field on the same side of the pitch. The fielding restriction area should be marked by ‘dots’ at five-yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring seven inches in diameter.

For the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 2 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking defined in 6.1.

After the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 4 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking.

Throughout the innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than five fielders shall be permitted to field on the leg side.

In the event of an infringement of any of the fielding restrictions specified in 6.2, 6.3 & 6.4 above the umpire at the striker’s end shall call and signal ‘No Ball.’

If, in the opinion of either batter, the striker’s end umpire fails to call and signal ‘No Ball’ when either these fielding restrictions or Law 28.4 (Limitation of On-side fielders) have been breached, then immediately the ball becomes dead, either batter may draw the matter to the attention of either umpire. If the striker’s end umpire is able to verify the breach, he/she shall call and signal No Ball. If the striker’s end umpire is unable to verify the breach, then he/she shall confirm that the events of the delivery shall be unchanged.

In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the restrictions in 6.2 and 6.3 shall be reduced in accordance with the table below.

For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the table below shall apply to both the 1st and 2nd innings of the match Overs in match

6.8.

12

Number of overs with fielding restrictions

5-6

1

7-9

2

10 - 13

3

14 -16

4

17 -19

5

If time lost results in a reduction of overs and play was stopped during the powerplay, the powerplay will be reduced accordingly. Example: Play stops in Over 3.1 of a 20 over match (normal powerplay is 6 overs). Overs are reduced to 12, The powerplay is therefore complete at resumption of the game so the Power play fielding restriction does not apply.

Hardball League - T20 match rules

7.

7.1.

7.2.

7.3.

8.

8.1.

8.2.

8.3.

8.4.

8.5.

8.6.

8.7.

9.

Overs Per Bowler

No bowler may bowl more than 4 overs. In a match with an innings of less than 20 overs, no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs available.

Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, an additional over shall be allowed to the minimum number of bowlers necessary to make up the balance. e.g. in an innings of 12 overs, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 3 overs.

If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over. e.g. match reduced to 14 overs, one bowler has bowled 4 – 2 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 3 overs and 2 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 2.

In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.

No Balls and Free Hits

Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in law 21.3.

The delivery following a No Ball shall be a free hit for whichever batter is facing it. Note: this applies to all modes of No Ball except for the first short pitched delivery that passes or would have passed clearly over head-height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. For clarity, such a delivery to be called a No Ball and considered the one short pitched delivery for the over.

If the delivery for the free hit is not a legitimate delivery (any kind of No Ball or a Wide Ball) then the next delivery will become a free hit for whichever batter is facing it.

For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a No Ball, even if the delivery for a free hit is called a Wide Ball.

Field changes are not permitted for free hit deliveries unless there is a change of striker, or the No Ball was the result of a field restriction breach in which case the field may be changed to the extent of correcting the breach.

However, in all circumstances, any fielder within 15 yards of the striker may retreat to a position on the same line no more than 15 yards from the striker.

When the ball is dead and after signalling ‘No Ball’ to the scorers, the bowler’s end umpire will call and signal a free hit by extending one arm straight upwards and moving it in a circular motion.

The free hit delivery counts as a ball in the over unless it in turn is a Wide Ball or a No ball.

The Bowling of Fast, Short Pitched Deliveries

Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with: A bowler shall be limited to one fast, short pitched delivery per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters Hardball League - T20 match rules

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at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched delivery is defined as one that passes or would have passed clearly over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded, and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of law 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.

10.

Wide Ball

11.

The Result

12.

Points System

The umpires and captains shall ensure that consistency is achieved across both innings for determining what constitutes a wide delivery. The principles set out in Law 22 should be used when umpires and captains are reaching agreement.

11.1. At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.

11.2. If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match, the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the side batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 4. If the target is reached or exceeded, the side batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the side batting first shall be deemed to have won.

11.3. If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the side batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either side was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the side was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).

14

Points will be awarded as follows: Win 30 points Tie 10 points + Bonus Points Loss Bonus Points only Cancelled or Abandoned 10 points If any side fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full Hardball League - T20 match rules

30 points available for that fixture.

Any side which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 10 points from its points total.

Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the side is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.

Example: In an uninterrupted 20 over match a side is all out for 125 in 17.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 125 divided by 20 = 6.25. Therefore 4 batting bonus points shall be awarded.

Bonus Points

Batting (Runs per over)

Bowling (Wickets)

1

3 RPO

1 wicket

2

4 RPO

3 wickets

3

5 RPO

5 wickets

4

6 RPO

7 wickets

5

7 RPO

8 wickets

Section B: Match Rules for 35 Over Matches

1.

1.1.

1.2.

1.3.

1.4.

1.5.

1.6.

Duration, Hours of Play and Intervals

Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 7.10pm.

There will normally be two sessions of play of 2 hours and 20 minutes each separated by an interval of 30 minutes between the innings.

If the innings of the team batting first is completed prior to the scheduled time for the interval then the interval shall, if considered practicable by the umpires, take place immediately and may be extended with the agreement of the captains and umpires, if necessary, by up to 15 minutes (to a maximum of 45 minutes).

In delayed or interrupted matches, the captains may agree to forgo the interval, in accordance with Law 11.9, in which case there shall be an interval between innings of 10 minutes.

Each innings will be allowed one five minute drinks interval midway through the innings, unless there are exceptional circumstances where two or more intervals will be allowed. Time taken for drinks shall be regarded as an interval in accordance with Law 11.8.

Each match shall consist of a maximum of 35 overs per innings except where time is lost after the scheduled start time due to inclement weather or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, when the number of overs shall be reduced as hereinafter provided.

Hardball League - T35 match rules

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1.7.

1.8.

2.

2.1.

2.2.

2.3.

2.4.

2.5.

2.6.

3.

3.1.

16

If the side batting first is dismissed before the overs to which it is entitled have been bowled, the team batting second shall be entitled to bat for its full entitlement of overs or as further reduced due to inclement weather or other cause. Declarations are not permitted.

In the event of delays due to weather or other causes, a minimum of 10 overs per side is required to constitute a match.

Delayed Start and Interruptions

If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 60 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4.

The latest start time for a match reduced to 10 overs per side shall be 5.40pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.

A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 10 overs per side, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of overs originally allocated.

The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions.

Interrupted matches

First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs. The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 8 minutes of playing time lost. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4 or forgone in accordance with Law 11.9.

Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the side batting second to face the same number of overs as the side batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 4 minutes per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings

Fielding Restrictions

Two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 25 yards. The ends of each semi-circle shall be joined to the other by a straight line drawn on the field on the same side of the pitch. The fielding restriction area should be marked by ‘dots’ at five-yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring seven inches in diameter.

Hardball League - T35 match rules

3.2.

3.3.

3.4.

3.5.

3.6.

3.7.

For the first 7 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 2 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking defined in 3.1.

After the first 7 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 4 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking.

Throughout the innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than five fielders shall be permitted to field on the leg side.

In the event of an infringement of any of the fielding restrictions specified in 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 above the umpire at the striker’s end shall call and signal ‘No Ball.’

If, in the opinion of either batter, the striker’s end umpire fails to call and signal ‘No Ball’ when either these fielding restrictions or Law 28.4 (Limitation of On-side fielders) have been breached, then immediately the ball becomes dead, either batter may draw the matter to the attention of either umpire. If the striker’s end umpire is able to verify the breach, he/she shall call and signal No Ball. If the striker’s end umpire is unable to verify the breach, then he/she shall confirm that the events of the delivery shall be unchanged.

In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the restrictions in 3.2 and 3.3 shall be reduced in accordance with the table below.

For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the table below shall apply to both the 1st and 2nd innings of the match Overs in match

Number of overs with fielding restrictions

10 - 12

2

13 - 17

3

18 - 22

4

23 - 27

5

28 - 32

6

33 - 35

7

3.8.

If time lost results in a reduction of overs and play was stopped during the powerplay, the powerplay will be reduced accordingly. Example: Play stops in Over 5.1 of a 35 over match (normal powerplay is 7 overs). Overs are reduced to 25, The powerplay is therefore complete at resumption of the game so the Power play fielding restriction does not apply.

4.

Number of Overs Per Bowler

4.1.

In a 35 over match no bowler may bowl more than 7 overs in an innings. In a match with an innings of less than 35 overs, no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs available. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, an additional over shall be allowed to the minimum number of bowlers necessary to make up the balance. e.g. in an innings of 27 overs, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 6 overs.

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4.2.

4.3.

If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over. e.g. match reduced to 22 overs, one bowler has bowled 7 – 3 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 4 overs and 1 bowler may bowl a maximum of 3.

In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.

5.

No Balls and Free Hits

6.

The Bowling of Fast, Short Pitched Deliveries

5.1.

Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in law 21.3.

5.2. The delivery following a No Ball shall be a free hit for whichever batter is facing it. Note: this applies to all modes of No Ball except for the first short pitched delivery that passes or would have passed clearly over head-height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. For clarity, such a delivery to be called a No Ball and considered the one short pitched delivery for the over.

5.3. If the delivery for the free hit is not a legitimate delivery (any kind of No Ball or a Wide Ball) then the next delivery will become a free hit for whichever batter is facing it.

5.4. For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a No Ball, even if the delivery for a free hit is called a Wide Ball.

5.5. Field changes are not permitted for free hit deliveries unless there is a change of striker, or the No Ball was the result of a field restriction breach in which case the field may be changed to the extent of correcting the breach.

However, in all circumstances, any fielder within 15 yards of the striker may retreat to a position on the same line no more than 15 yards from the striker.

5.6. When the ball is dead and after signalling ‘No Ball’ to the scorers, the bowler’s end umpire will call and signal a free hit by extending one arm straight upwards and moving it in a circular motion.

5.7. The free hit delivery counts as a ball in the over unless it in turn is a Wide Ball or a No ball.

18

Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with: A bowler shall be limited to one fast, short pitched delivery per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched delivery is defined as one that passes or would have passed clearly over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded, and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of law 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.

Hardball League - T35 match rules

7.

7.1.

7.2.

7.3.

7.4.

7.5.

7.6.

Over Rate Penalties

The fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the 35th over within 2 hours and 15 minutes of playing time.

In the event of them failing to do so, one fewer fielder shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area in 3.2 and 3.3 than would normally be the case in the Powerplay overs in progress at the time. All penalties in this regard will be imposed at the end of the over in progress when the scheduled or re-scheduled cessation time for the innings was exceeded. The full quota of overs will be completed.

Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding side of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting side shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made If the innings is completed before the scheduled or re-scheduled cut off time no over rate penalty shall apply.

If the start of an innings is delayed or an innings is interrupted, the over rate penalty will apply based on the revised number of overs and the re-scheduled cessation time for that innings. The umpires shall inform the fielding team captain when taking the field for the first time and on every subsequent occasion if play is interrupted by the weather or other cause, of the scheduled time for that innings (by which the fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the last over). The time allowed to bowl the overs shall be calculated on the basis of four minutes per over.

In addition, in all reduced overs matches, the fielding team will be given one over’s leeway, such that the fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the penultimate over by the scheduled or rescheduled cut off time.

8.

Wide Ball

9.

The Result

9.1.

9.2.

The umpires and captains shall ensure that consistency is achieved across both innings for determining what constitutes a wide delivery. The principles set out in Law 22 should be used when umpires and captains are reaching agreement.

At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.

If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match, the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the side batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 4. If the target is reached or exceeded, the side batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match Hardball League - T35 match rules

19

9.3.

10.

20

is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the side batting first shall be deemed to have won.

If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the side batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either side was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the side was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).

Points System

Points will be awarded as follows: Win 30 points Tie 10 points + Bonus Points Loss Bonus Points only Cancelled or Abandoned 10 points If any side fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 30 points available for that fixture.

Any side which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 10 points from its points total.

Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the side is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.

Example: In an uninterrupted 35 over match a side is all out for 197 in 32.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 197 divided by 35 = 5.63. Therefore 4 batting bonus points shall be awarded.

The fielding team shall be awarded full bowling points if only one batter remains.

Bonus Points

Batting (Runs per over)

Bowling (Wickets)

1

2 RPO

2 wickets

2

3 RPO

4 wickets

3

4 RPO

6 wickets

4

5 RPO

8 wickets

5

6 RPO

10 wickets

Hardball League - T35 match rules

Section C: Match Rules for 30 Over Matches

1.

1.1.

1.2.

1.3.

1.4.

1.5.

1.6.

1.7.

1.8.

2.

2.1.

2.2.

2.3.

2.4.

Duration, Hours of Play and Intervals

Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 6.30pm.

There will normally be two sessions of play of 2 hours each separated by an interval of 30 minutes between the innings.

If the innings of the team batting first is completed prior to the scheduled time for the interval then the interval shall, if considered practicable by the umpires, take place immediately and may be extended with the agreement of the captains and umpires, if necessary, by up to 15 minutes (to a maximum of 45 minutes).

In delayed or interrupted matches, the captains may agree to forgo the interval, in accordance with Law 11.9, in which case there shall be an interval between innings of 10 minutes.

Each innings will be allowed one five minute drinks interval midway through the innings, unless there are exceptional circumstances where two or more intervals will be allowed. Time taken for drinks shall be regarded as an interval in accordance with Law 11.8.

Each match shall consist of a maximum of 30 overs per innings except where time is lost after the scheduled start time due to inclement weather or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, when the number of overs shall be reduced as hereinafter provided.

If the side batting first is dismissed before the overs to which it is entitled have been bowled, the team batting second shall be entitled to bat for its full entitlement of overs or as further reduced due to inclement weather or other cause. Declarations are not permitted.

In the event of delays due to weather or other causes, a minimum of 10 overs per side is required to constitute a match.

Delayed Start and Interruptions

If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 60 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4.

The latest start time for a match reduced to 10 overs per side shall be 5.00pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.

A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 10 overs per side, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of overs originally allocated.

The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions.

Hardball League - T30 match rules

21

2.5.

2.6.

3.

3.1.

3.2.

3.3.

3.4.

3.5.

3.6.

22

Interrupted matches

First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs. The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 8 minutes of playing time lost. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4 or forgone in accordance with Law 11.9.

Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the side batting second to face the same number of overs as the side batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 4 minutes per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings

Fielding Restrictions

Two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 25 yards. The ends of each semi-circle shall be joined to the other by a straight line drawn on the field on the same side of the pitch. The fielding restriction area should be marked by ‘dots’ at five-yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring seven inches in diameter.

For the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 2 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking defined in 3.1.

After the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 4 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking.

Throughout the innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than five fielders shall be permitted to field on the leg side.

In the event of an infringement of any of the fielding restrictions specified in 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 above the umpire at the striker’s end shall call and signal ‘No Ball.’

If, in the opinion of either batter, the striker’s end umpire fails to call and signal ‘No Ball’ when either these fielding restrictions or Law 28.4 (Limitation of On-side fielders) have been breached, then immediately the ball becomes dead, either batter may draw the matter to the attention of either umpire. If the striker’s end umpire is able to verify the breach, he/she shall call and signal No Ball. If the striker’s end umpire is unable to verify the breach, then he/she shall confirm that the events of the delivery shall be unchanged.

Hardball League - T30 match rules

3.7.

In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the restrictions in 3.2 and 3.3 shall be reduced in accordance with the table below.

For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the table below shall apply to both the 1st and 2nd innings of the match Overs in match

Number of overs with fielding restrictions

10 - 12

2

13 – 17

3

18 – 22

4

23 – 27

5

28 – 30

6

3.8.

If time lost results in a reduction of overs and play was stopped during the powerplay, the powerplay will be reduced accordingly. Example: Play stops in Over 5.1 of a 30 over match (normal powerplay is 6 overs). Overs are reduced to 25, The powerplay is therefore complete at resumption of the game so the Power play fielding restriction does not apply.

4.

Number of Overs Per Bowler

4.1.

4.2.

4.3.

5.

5.1.

5.2.

In a 30 over match no bowler may bowl more than 6 overs in an innings. In a match with an innings of less than 30 overs, no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs available. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, an additional over shall be allowed to the minimum number of bowlers necessary to make up the balance. e.g. in an innings of 22 overs, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 5 overs.

If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over. e.g., match reduced to 21 overs, one bowler has bowled 6 – 3 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 4 overs and 1 bowler may bowl a maximum of 3.

In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.

No Balls and Free Hits

Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in law 21.3.

The delivery following a No Ball shall be a free hit for whichever batter is facing it. Note: this applies to all modes of No Ball except for the first short pitched delivery that passes or would have passed clearly over head-height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. For clarity, such a delivery to be called a No Ball and considered the one short pitched delivery for the over.

Hardball League - T30 match rules

23

5.3.

5.4.

5.5.

5.6.

5.7.

If the delivery for the free hit is not a legitimate delivery (any kind of No Ball or a Wide Ball) then the next delivery will become a free hit for whichever batter is facing it.

For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a No Ball, even if the delivery for a free hit is called a Wide Ball.

Field changes are not permitted for free hit deliveries unless there is a change of striker, or the No Ball was the result of a field restriction breach in which case the field may be changed to the extent of correcting the breach.

However, in all circumstances, any fielder within 15 yards of the striker may retreat to a position on the same line no more than 15 yards from the striker.

When the ball is dead and after signalling ‘No Ball’ to the scorers, the bowler’s end umpire will call and signal a free hit by extending one arm straight upwards and moving it in a circular motion.

The free hit delivery counts as a ball in the over unless it in turn is a Wide Ball or a No ball.

6.

The Bowling of Fast, Short Pitched Deliveries

7.

Over Rate Penalties

7.1.

7.2.

7.3.

7.4.

7.5.

24

Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with: A bowler shall be limited to one fast, short pitched delivery per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched delivery is defined as one that passes or would have passed clearly over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded, and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of law 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.

The fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the 30th over within 1 hour and 55 minutes of playing time.

In the event of them failing to do so, one fewer fielder shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area in 3.2 and 3.3 than would normally be the case in the Powerplay overs in progress at the time. All penalties in this regard will be imposed at the end of the over in progress when the scheduled or re-scheduled cessation time for the innings was exceeded. The full quota of overs will be completed.

Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding side of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting side shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made If the innings is completed before the scheduled or re-scheduled cut off time no over rate penalty shall apply.

If the start of an innings is delayed or an innings is interrupted, the over rate Hardball League - T30 match rules

7.6.

penalty will apply based on the revised number of overs and the re-scheduled cessation time for that innings. The umpires shall inform the fielding team captain when taking the field for the first time and on every subsequent occasion if play is interrupted by the weather or other cause, of the scheduled time for that innings (by which the fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the last over). The time allowed to bowl the overs shall be calculated on the basis of four minutes per over.

In addition, in all reduced overs matches, the fielding team will be given one over’s leeway, such that the fielding side must be in position to bowl the first ball of the penultimate over by the scheduled or rescheduled cut off time.

8.

Wide Ball

9.

The Result

9.1.

9.2.

9.3.

10.

The umpires and captains shall ensure that consistency is achieved across both innings for determining what constitutes a wide delivery. The principles set out in Law 22 should be used when umpires and captains are reaching agreement.

At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.

If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match, the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the side batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 4. If the target is reached or exceeded, the side batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the side batting first shall be deemed to have won.

If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the side batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either side was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the side was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).

Points System

Points will be awarded as follows: Win 30 points Tie 10 points + Bonus Points Loss Bonus Points only Cancelled or Abandoned 10 points Hardball League - T30 match rules

25

If any side fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 30 points available for that fixture.

Any side which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 10 points from its points total.

Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the side is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.

Example: In an uninterrupted 30 over match a side is all out for 147 in 27.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 147 divided by 30 = 4.9. Therefore 3 batting bonus points shall be awarded.

The fielding team shall be awarded full bowling points if only one batter remains.

26

Bonus Points

Batting (Runs per over)

Bowling (Wickets)

1

2 RPO

2 wickets

2

3 RPO

4 wickets

3

4 RPO

6 wickets

4

5 RPO

8 wickets

5

6 RPO

10 wickets

Hardball League - T30 match rules

Women’s Softball League Rules

1.

Management

2.

Competition Structure and Fixtures

2.1.

2.2.

The Competition shall be under the control of the League and all decisions relating to these rules or to matches played in the Competition shall be final and binding.

2.3.

All teams in the Competition will play each other once.

Fixtures will be arranged by the clubs with the home team providing a preferred playing day. Matches can be played on any day of the week with midweek games played in the evening.

All fixtures must be completed by 7 September 2025.

3.

Pitches

4.

Eligibility

3.1.

3.2.

3.3.

4.1.

4.2.

Games can be played on either grass or artificial pitches.

There should be two sets of wickets, 22 yards apart.

Boundaries should ideally be a minimum of 40 metres long.

4.3.

The Competition is open to Women and Girls aged 13 and above.

At least 50% of the intended team players must be aged 15 years or older unless agreed by both captains.

County players cannot play in this competition

5.

Equipment

5.1.

5.2.

An incrediball is to be used in all games. The host club is responsible for providing the match balls.

Any protective equipment is at the players’ discretion.

6.

Teams

7.

Duration

8.

Batting and Scoring

6.1.

6.2.

8.1.

8.2.

8.3.

8.4.

Each team comprises of 8 players.

In the event of injury to a player, a substitute will be allowed to field, but not bowl. Should such an injury prevent the player batting, a substitute will be allowed to bat only with the permission of the opposing team’s captain.

Each game shall consist of one innings per team. Each innings is made up of 16 overs (6 balls an over) Each batting side will commence their innings with 200 runs.

The batting side shall be divided into pairs, each pair batting for 4 overs (24 balls) regardless of whether they lose their wicket.

Each wicket will result in 5 runs being deducted from the batting team’s total.

Batters shall change ends at the fall of each wicket except on the last ball of an over.

Softball League rules

27

8.5.

8.8.

The innings will be bowled from one end. At the end of each over the batters shall change ends unless there is a fall of a wicket.

A batter may be out either bowled, caught, run out, stumped or hit wicket.

There is no LBW law applied to this competition.

Runs will be scored in the normal way, as will byes and leg byes. See Sections 10.3 and 10.4 as regards runs scored from wides and no balls.

At the end of each 4 overs the batting pairs will change.

9.

Bowling and Fielding

10.

Wides and No Balls

8.6.

8.7.

9.1.

9.2.

9.3.

No bowler may bowl more than 3 overs.

Bowling will take place from one end only.

With the exception of the wicketkeeper, no fielder may field within 11 yards of the wicket, measured from the middle stump except behind the wicket on the off-side. A fielder may move into the restricted area to field a ball provided she was outside the area when the stroke was made.

10.1. A ball that is too far from the batter to strike will be called a wide. A ball will not be called a wide, no matter how wide it may be, if the batter manages to hit it with bat or body.

10.2. If a ball bounces more than twice before reaching the batter it will be called a no ball.

10.3. Except in the last over, 2 runs will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled, but no extra ball will be allocated.

10.4. In the last over, 1 run will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled and the ball will need to be re-bowled.

11.

Results 11.1. The team with the highest number of runs will be deemed the winner.

11.2. A tie will result in both sides scoring the same number of runs.

11.3. Results will need to be entered into Play-Cricket.

12. Points System Points will be awarded as follows: Win 4 points Tie 2 points Loss 0 points Cancelled or Abandoned 2 points If any side fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 4 points available for that fixture.

Any side which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 2 points from its points total.

28

Softball League rules

Women’s Hundred Cup Competition Playing Conditions

1.

Management

2.

Playing Conditions

1.1

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4

3.

3.1

The Competition shall be under the control of the League and all decisions relating to these rules or to matches played in the Competition shall be final and binding.

The conduct of all matches will be governed by The Laws of Cricket (2017 Code 3rd Edition - 2022) and all relevant ECB directives and guidelines, except as stated otherwise in these rules.

In the Cup Competition, all clubs will play each other once on specific dates set by the League. Matches will be played in accordance with the Cup Competition Playing Rules.

In the Plate Competition, teams will play 5 matches within their allotted groups on specific dates set by the League. Matches will be played in accordance with the Plate Competition Playing Rules.

One match to be played on match day. A second friendly game may be played if agreed by both teams, but will not count towards points. The first match will always be deemed the official competition match.

Umpires and Scorers

3.2

Teams are recommended to provide a qualified umpire who is a member of the ECB ACO and has completed both Stage 1 and 2 courses or their equivalents.

All teams are expected to provide a qualified scorer at each match.

4.

Venue (Pitches, Outfield and Surrounds)

4.1

4.2 4.3

The boundary must be defined, and markers used if available. The boundary will be a minimum of 45 metres from the middle wicket from each end (if the ground dimensions allow), maximum of 55 metres each end at a 45-degree angle.

Some venues may vary depending upon limitations.

Artificial pitches may be used In the Plate Competition

5.

Eligibility

5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6

The Competition is open to Women and Girls aged 13 and above.

At least 50% of the intended team players must be aged 15 years or older unless agreed by both captains.

In the Cup Competition, each team will only be allowed to play a maximum of THREE County or County Age Group players per game.

In the Plate Competition, each team will only be allowed to play a maximum of ONE County or County Age Group player per game.

County players are defined as any players who are named in a County squad for the Women’s & Girl’s County Manager/ Coach.

If a player is named in a County Development or MCC Hub Squad, they will not be classed as a County Player for this competition.

Hundred Cup - playing conditions

29

5.7

Clubs with multiple teams in the Cup and Plate competitions: The Plate competition is intended for the development of club players. Clubs may enter a team for both the Cup and Plate competitions. However, it is expected that these will consist of different players i.e. A player will not play in both Cup and Plate fixtures (if dates are different, unless approved by the Committee). This is to ensure that the correct ability is afforded for a fair competition.

6.

Balls

6.1

6.3

All league fixtures will be played with cricket balls that have been approved by the League (see inside back cover).

One new ball will be used from the commencement of each innings. New balls are to be supplied by the home club.

The home club is responsible for providing the match balls.

7.

Interference by Weather – DLS Method in the Cup Competition

6.2

7.1 7.2

Whenever possible, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method will be used to calculate the Target Score.

If the umpires (or captains, where there are no non-playing umpires) decide that it is not possible to obtain a target score by using the DLS method, this decision shall be agreed before the toss and the scorers informed.

8.

Results

9.

League Positions

10.

Finals Day

All results will need to be entered into Play Cricket.

League positions in each Competition will be determined by the total number of points gained less penalty points. In the event of two or more clubs finishing on equal points, league position will be determined in the following order: • The side with the highest net run rate from completed matches, but if still level • The side with the highest runs per wicket, calculated by aggregating all runs scored in completed matches divided by the total number of wickets lost.

10.1 There will be a Finals Day on September 7 (Reserve Date: September 14).

10.2 The top two teams in the Cup Competition will play each other and the two winners of the Plate Competition groups will play each other.

10.3 If either of the top 2 teams cannot make Finals Day, the next best placed team will go through.

10.4 Players may only play in the Finals Day matches if they have played 50% of the tournament matches.

10.5 For the Finals Day, umpires will be appointed by the League from the Umpires Panel. The cost of providing those umpires will be paid by the League.

10.6 In the event of a tie on Finals Day, the winner will be determined in accordance with Section 11 below.

30

Hundred Cup - playing conditions

11.

Super Over

12.

Promotion and Relegation

A ‘Super Over’ will be bowled by each side as follows: 11.1 Each captain will nominate three batters and one bowler.

11.2 The side that batted second in the match shall bat first in the Super Over and face one over of five legitimate balls bowled by the nominated bowler. The other side shall bat second and face one over of five legitimate balls bowled by the nominated bowler.

11.3 If either side loses two wickets in its over then its innings will end. The winner will be the side which scores most runs.

11.4 If the scores are equal, then there will be a second super over with different batters and bowlers nominated under 11.1, except that a batter who has not commenced their innings may be nominated again.

11.5 The sequence of 11.1 to 11.4 will continue with the side batting first alternating until a result is achieved.

11.6 The umpires will allow 10 minutes between the end of the match and the Super Over and a maximum of 10 minutes between each Super Over.

The winner of the Plate Competition will be promoted to the Cup Competition for the following year. There will be no relegation from the Cup Competition.

Women’s Hundred Cup Competition 1.

Teams

2.

Duration

3.

Hours of Play

2.1.

2.2.

3.1.

Playing Rules

Each team shall comprise of 9 players. If a team has less than 9 players then both sides should attempt to find a mutually agreeable number of players to make the match as even as possible, or to support the opposition by providing fielders as appropriate.

One innings per side, each limited to a maximum of 100 balls (20 5 ball overs).

In a match that has a delayed start or is interrupted each side must have faced (or had the opportunity to face) a minimum of 25 balls (5 5 ball overs) to constitute a match.

3.2.

Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 4.00pm. Declarations are not permitted.

The interval between innings shall be no longer than 20 minutes.

4.

Over Rate

4.1.

4.2.

The fielding side is expected to complete the innings within 70 minutes of playing time.

Umpires are instructed to apply a strict interpretation of time wasting by the Hundred Cup - playing rules

31

4.3.

5.

5.1.

5.2.

5.3.

5.4.

5.5.

5.6.

6.

32

batters (5 run penalties). Batters are expected to be ready for the start of a new over as soon as the bowler is ready to bowl.

Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding side of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting side shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made.

Delayed Start and Interruptions

If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 30 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded.

The latest start time for a match reduced to 25 balls per side shall be 3.00pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.

A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 25 balls per side, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of balls originally allocated.

The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions.

Interrupted matches

First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs.

The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 6 and a half minutes of playing time lost.

Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the side batting second to face the same number of overs as the side batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 3 minutes and 15 seconds per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings.

Timed Out

The incoming batter must be in a position to take guard, or for her partner to be ready to receive the next ball, within 1 minute 30 seconds of the fall of the previous wicket. Any infringement of this rule shall result in the incoming batter being dismissed Timed Out by the umpires. An appeal by the fielding side is not required.

Hundred Cup - playing rules

7.

7.1.

7.2.

7.3.

7.4.

7.5.

7.6.

7.7.

8.

8.1.

8.2.

9.

Bowling and Fielding

Each over shall consist of 5 balls.

In a game of 100 balls, no bowler may bowl more than 15 balls (i.e. three 5 ball overs). In a match with an innings of less than 100 balls, this overall limit and the number of bowlers who can bowl the maximum shall be reduced as appropriate so that the bowling team requires at least 7 bowlers. (The only exception being a match reduced to either 25 or 30 balls, in which case there will be fewer than 7 bowlers each bowling one over each). e.g. in an innings of 80 balls, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 3 overs.

A bowler may not bowl more than two overs consecutively, nor bowl parts of more than two consecutive overs, in the same innings.

The first 50 balls will be bowled from one end with the remaining 50 balls bowled from the other end. As a result, the batters will change ends after every 10 balls except after 50 balls, when the bowling changes ends.

If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over. e.g. match reduced to 60 balls, two bowlers have bowled 3 overs – of the remainder, 1 bowler may bowl a maximum of 2 overs and 4 bowlers may bowl 1 over each.

In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.

With the exception of the wicketkeeper, no U18 player may field within 11 yards of the wicket, measured from the middle stump except behind the wicket on the off-side. Such a fielder may move into the restricted area to field a ball provided she was outside the area when the stroke was made.

No Balls and Free Hits

Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in law 21.3.

2 runs will be awarded to the batting team for each no ball bowled, but no extra ball will be allocated.

The Bowling of Fast, Short Pitched Deliveries

Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with: A bowler shall be limited to one fast, short pitched delivery per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched delivery is defined as one that passes or would have passed clearly over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded, and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of law 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.

Hundred Cup - playing rules

33

10.

Wide Ball

11.

The Result

12.

Points System

10.1. A ball that is too far from the batter to strike will be called a wide. A ball will not be called a wide, no matter how wide it may be, if the batter manages to hit it with bat or body.

10.2. A ball that passes between the striker and leg stump shall not be judged a wide.

10.3. 2 runs will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball bowled, but no extra ball will be allocated.

11.1. At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of balls the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.

11.2. If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match, the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the side batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 4. If the target is reached or exceeded, the side batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the side batting first shall be deemed to have won.

11.3. If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the side batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either side was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the side was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).

34

Points will be awarded as follows: Win 4 points Tie 2 points Loss 0 points Cancelled or Abandoned 2 points If any side fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 4 points available for that fixture.

Any side which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 2 points from its points total.

Hundred Cup - playing rules

Women’s Hundred Plate Competition 1.

1.1.

Teams

Playing Rules

1.2.

Each team comprises of 8 players. If a team has fewer than 8 players the opposition shall nominate a player, or players, to bat twice.

In the event of injury to a player, a substitute will be allowed to field, but not bowl. Should such an injury prevent the player batting, a substitute will be allowed to bat only with the permission of the opposing team’s captain.

2.

Start Times and Duration

2.1.

2.2.

All matches will start at 1:00pm. However, teams may agree a start time on confirmation of the game. This should be no earlier than 11:00am.

Each game shall consist of one innings per team, each made up of 100 balls.

3.

Batting and Scoring

3.1.

3.2.

3.7.

Each batting side will commence their innings with 200 runs.

The batting side shall be divided into pairs, each pair batting for 25 balls regardless of whether they lose their wicket.

Each wicket will result in 5 runs being deducted from the batting team’s total.

Batters shall change ends at the fall of each wicket except on the last ball of a 10 ball set.

The first 50 balls will be bowled from one end with the remaining 50 balls bowled from the other end. At the end of each 10 ball set (2 overs) the batters shall change ends unless there is a fall of a wicket.

Runs will be scored in the normal way, as will byes and leg byes. See Sections 5.4 and 5.5 as regards runs scored from wides and no balls.

At the end of each 25 balls the batting pairs will change.

4.

Bowling and Fielding

3.3.

3.4.

3.5.

3.6.

4.1.

4.2.

4.3.

4.4.

4.5.

4.6.

5.

5.1.

Each over shall consist of 5 balls.

No bowler may bowl more than 20 balls (i.e. four 5 ball overs).

A bowler may not bowl more than two overs consecutively, nor bowl parts of more than two consecutive overs, in the same innings.

The first 50 balls will be bowled from one end with the remaining 50 balls bowled from the other end.

LBW will not be a form of dismissal unless a batter deliberately blocks their stumps with their pads twice.

With the exception of the wicketkeeper, no U18 player may field within 11 yards of the wicket, measured from the middle stump except behind the wicket on the off-side. Such a fielder may move into the restricted area to field a ball provided she was outside the area when the stroke was made.

Wides and No Balls

A ball that is too far from the batter to strike will be called a wide. A ball will not be called a wide, no matter how wide it may be, if the batter manages to hit it with bat or body.

Hundred Plate - playing rules

35

5.2.

5.3.

5.4.

5.5.

Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in law 21.3.

As regards No Balls, Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with: A bowler shall be limited to one fast short pitched ball per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched ball is defined as one that passes or would have passed over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of law 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.

Except in the last over (i.e. the last 5 balls), 2 runs will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled, but no extra ball will be allocated.

In the last over, 1 run will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled and the ball will need to be re-bowled.

6.

Results

7.

Points System

6.1.

6.2.

The team with the highest number of runs will be deemed the winner.

A tie will result in both sides scoring the same number of runs.

Points will be awarded as follows: Win 4 points Tie 2 points Loss 0 points Cancelled or Abandoned 2 points If any side fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 4 points available for that fixture.

Any side which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 2 points from its points total.

Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the side is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.

Example: In an uninterrupted 30 over match a side is all out for 147 in 27.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 147 divided by 30 = 4.9. Therefore 3 batting bonus points shall be awarded.

The fielding team shall be awarded full bowling points if only one batter remains.

Bonus Points 1 2 3 4 5

36

Batting (Runs per over) 2 RPO 3 RPO 4 RPO 5 RPO 6 RPO

Bowling (Wickets) 2 wickets 4 wickets 6 wickets 8 wickets 10 wickets

Hundred Plate - playing rules

Umpires contact information 2025 Panel coordinator: Anthony Levy

Tel: 020 8441 9297, Mobile: 07904 309926 Email: Anthony.d.levy@btinternet.com

Philip Anderson 07469 652363 Richard Apperley 07971 880547 Paul Attfield 07734 036143 Sumant Bahl 07891 606622 Paul Barnes 07754 093888 Geoff Bassill 07703 307452 Andrew Bennett 07947 639355 Navneet Bhatnagar 07747 092519 Mark Bishop 01923 681048/07751 357382 Martin Botha 07969 938662 Ian Breeze 01707 642891/07754 679140 Alan Brewster 01438 356275/07549 286172 Tim Caldicott 01923 578531/07721 017651 Murray Carlson 07907 121404 Paul Carroll 07889 344869 Alan Casbard 01992 301551/07815 609129 Ben Childs 07534 080357 Steve Cobb 01767 316332/07788 134073 Geoff Cordingley 01992 423879 Andy Cox 01923 260428/07720 288408 Adrian Dell 07908 450080 Sujoy Dey 07907 030582 Jerry Dovey 07949 196413 Rose Dovey 07459 460726 Jeremy Epton 07764 176702 John Eyre 07740 054726 Piers Fuller 07879 236193 Rob Furber 07785 227511 Rupert Garrett 07951 492396 Jeremy Goodacre 07551 660052 Pete Gurney 01767 681211/07919 241096 Phil Gurney 07969 558260 Nick Hall 01727 855100/07929 562554 Bryan Harber 01462 678712/07790 751187 Richard Harle 07756 142795 Peter Hinstridge 01763 837189/07710 403524 Jon Holland 07948 718178 David Inwood 01234 752250/07902 076757 Sarvesh Kantipoodi 07412 507347

Jerry Lake 01707 322354/07309 041240 Ian Lawless 01707 260859/07976 359625 David Lee 07901 972859 Ian Letting 01525 875105/ 07802 247549 Anthony Levy 020 8441 9297/07904 309926 Phil Lewins 01442 393379/ 07796 781617 Guy Lewis 07500 843575 Jonathan Mackman 07984 791309 Andrew McCree 07836 365975 Marcel Mester 07828 612972 Pravin Mistry 07305 413778 Harish Padalia 01438 728632/07770 567857 David Perkins 01438 714430/07803 204200 Gary Pond 07850 224582 Chris Price 01707 327914/07961 808766 Rob Riddleston 01923 721298/07956 922590 Mark Rivlin 07973 824303 Gordon Ronald 07802 933998 Michael Rueth 01923 671059/07425 147162 David Segal 07956 282630 Graham Sherman 01442 231715/07776 745914 Tim Sims 07769 111508 Satish Solanki 01923 670609/07786 732056 Arvind Srinivasan 07713 563245 Michael Stiffin 01727 767845/07954 134609 Tony Stopford 020 8428 6990/07703 462850 John Sweedy 01923 404163/07854 374597 Geoff Swinden 01767 631231/07710 273220 David Taylor 07792 271572 Nick Turner 01923 290808/07814 206042 Jim Wallace 07875 131905 Ray Ward 07708 632578 Ian Watkins 07950 831686 John Watson-Humphreys 07860 648390 George White 07968 349933 Hemal Wijesuriya 07801 763542 Randolph Woodley 07539 274340 David Wormald 07940 596660 David Wright 07788 777588

Cancelllations. Premiership playing conditions: The umpires shall be

responsible for decisions concerning the fitness of the ground for play and the use of covers from one hour before the scheduled start time.

No game shall be cancelled without the explicit agreement of at least one of the appointed umpires, or a deputy from the umpires panel nominated either by one of the appointed umpires or the umpires co-ordinator. An umpire attending to inspect the ground may request reasonable travelling expenses not exceeding £10 from the home club.

37

Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Procedure General 1

2

3

The Professional Edition of Duckworth Lewis Stern, Version 4, requiring the use of a working laptop computer and printer, or the Play Cricket Scorer app on Apple or Android applications, will be used to calculate the Target Score.

Where the DLS Professional Edition is used, all clubs shall use only the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) software provided by the league in making the calculations. The DLS software embedded within PCS-PRO software may be used, provided it has been updated with the latest version.

The Professional Edition will give a Target Score and a table of Par Scores.

The Target Score equals the Par Score plus 1.

Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Match Manager 4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

38

The Home club is responsible for ensuring that a person competent in the way DLS calculations should be performed is appointed for each match.

That person should be responsible for all DLS calculations and for the communications for such information to all relevant parties. The person appointed will be referred to as the DLS Match Manager (DLSMM).

The DLSMM will ensure that the approved current version of the DLS software is available and can be operated in a location where there is instant communication with the scorers.

Where a PA system announcer and/or representatives from the media are at the ground, it is the responsibility of the home club to ensure that they are informed as necessary of all DLS Target Scores.

When Team 1’s innings has been completed: If overs have been lost during Team 1’s innings or before Team 2’s innings can start, as soon as Team 2’s allocation of overs is known, the DLSMM will confirm Team 2’s revised Target Score and communicate this to the persons specified in the Appendix.

In all matches, the DLSMM will run the DLS software and produce an over-byover print-out of the Par Score and make as many copies as are needed. The print-out should be distributed to the persons specified in the Appendix.

If he/she judges that it may be required, the DLSMM will also distribute the ball-by-ball print-out to persons specified in the Appendix.

When the Umpires have decided to resume play, they will inform the DLSMM promptly, whenever possible not less than 10 minutes before play is due to start, of the revised number of overs. The DLSMM will run the software and confirm Team 2’s revised Target Score to the umpires and, if applicable the scoreboard operator. He/she will the produce over-by-over and/or ball-byball print-outs of the Par Scores, make copies and distribute over-by-over/or ball-by-ball tables (at his/her discretion) as quickly as possible to the parties specified in the Appendix, ensuring that both captains and, if applicable, the scoreboard operator, receive their copies immediately.

9.

10.

If, during Team 2’s innings, Team 2 incurs a penalty for which 5 runs are awarded to Team 1, the DLSMM will ensure that the scoreboard operator adds these 5 runs to Team 2’s Target Score and to all Par Scores. The DLSMM will enter the penalty runs in the DLS software but not produce revised Par Score print-outs until these are required by virtue of a further loss of overs. After such an interruption, the DLSMM should maintain a check that the correct revised Target Score and Par Score are displayed on the Scoreboard.

At the end of the game, the DLSMM should enter the final match information into the DLS software and confirm that the winning margin is correctly recorded and announced.

Duties of a Scoreboard Operator 11.

12.

13.

Any revised Par Score should be displayed as soon as it has been communicated to them. On scoreboards where there is insufficient room to display both the score actually made by Team 1 and the Par Score that Team 2 must exceed, the scoreboard should show the Par Score.

From time to time, when half of the minimum overs required for the game to be viable have been received by Team 2 (or earlier if desired), the DLS Par Score should be displayed. This should be the figure relating to the end of the over in progress and it should be updated as each new over is about to commence.

(For example, the matches where 20 overs per side would constitute a valid match, the Par Score should be displayed no later than the start of the 11th over.) It should also be updated upon the fall of a wicket and before the new batter has walked out to bat. It should be the figure as printed in the Par Score print-out for the end of that over (remembering to add any penalty runs incurred as described in item 9 above.)

When play is suspended during Team 2’s innings the scoreboard should display the Par Score for the exact number of overs and balls bowled and retain this display for the duration of the stoppage. When play resumes, the display should revert to the Par Score for the end of the over in progress, as per item 12, or whatever the new Par Score for that over in the game is, if a new Target Score has been set.

Appendix • •

List of people whom DLS information shall be communicated; The umpires, both team captains, scoreboard operator if applicable.

Other parties at the discretion of the DLSMM

39

Premiership

Fixtures 2025 Championship

4th May St Albans Broxbourne Bedford

T20 Format v Harpenden v St Margaretsbury v Ampthill

11th May Ampthill St Margaretsbury Harpenden

T20 Format v Broxbourne v St Albans v Bedford

18th May Harpenden Broxbourne St Albans

T35 Format v St Margaretsbury v Bedford v Ampthill

8th June Harpenden Bedford Ampthill

T35 Format v Broxbourne v St Albans v St Margaretsbury

22nd June St Albans St Margaretsbury Ampthill

T35 Format v Broxbourne v Bedford v Harpenden

6th July Harpenden St Magretsbury Ampthill

T35 Format v St Albans v Broxbourne v Bedford

27th July Broxbourne St Albans Bedford

T35 Format v Ampthill v St Margaretsbury v Harpenden

3rd August St Margaretsbury Bedford Ampthill

T20 Format v Harpenden v Broxbourne v St Albans

17th August Broxbourne St Albans St Margetsbury

T20 Format v Harpenden v Bedford v Ampthill

31st August Broxbourne Bedford Harpenden

T20 Format v St Albans v St Margaretsbury v Ampthill

40

4 May Luton Town & Indians Abbots Langley Harpenden 2s Bishop Stortford 2s Berkhamsted 2s

v Ickwell v Tring v Redbourn v Luton Women & Girls v Hitchin 2s

11 May Ickwell Tring Redbourn Luton Women & Girls Hitchin

v Flitwick v Luton Town & Indians v Abbots Langley v Harpenden 2s v Bishop Stortford 2s

18 May Flitwick Luton Town Indians Abbots Langley Harpenden 2s Bishop Stortford 2s

v Tring v Redbourn v Luton Women & Girls v Hitchin 2s v Berkhamsted 2s

8 June Redbourn Luton Women & Girls Hitchin 2s Berkhamsted 2s Tring

T35 Format v Flitwick v Luton Town & Indians v Abbots Langley v Harpenden 2s v Ickwell

15 June Abbots Langley

T30 Format v Berkhamsted 2s

22nd June Flitwick Luton Town & Indians Ickwell Harpenden 2s

T30 Format v Luton Women & Girls v Hitchin 2s v Redbourn v Bishop Stortford 2s

6 July Hitchin 2s Berkhamsted 2s Bishop Stortford 2s Luton Women & Girls Redbourn

T30 Format v Flitwick v Luton Town & Indians v Abbots Langley v Ickwell v Tring

20 July Flitwick Luton Town & Indians Abbots Langley Ickwell Tring

T30 Format v Berkhamsted 2s v Bishop Stortford 2s v Harpenden 2s v Hitchin 2s v Luton Women & Girls

27 July Bishop Stortford 2s Harpenden 2s Berkhamsted 2s Hitchin 2s Luton Women & Girls

T30 Format v Flitwick v Luton Town & Indians v Ickwell v Tring v Redbourn

3 August Flitwick Luton Town & Indians Ickwell Redbourn Tring

v Harpenden 2s v Abbots Langley v Bishop Stortford 2s v Hitchin 2s v Berkhamsted 2s

17 August Abbots Langley Harpenden 2s Bishop Stortford 2s Berkhamsted 2s Hitchin 2s

v Flitwick v Ickwell v Tring v Redbourn v Luton Women & Girls

31 August Flitwick Ickwell Tring Redbourn Luton Women & Girls

v Luton Town & Indians v Abbots Langley v Harpenden 2s v Bishop Stortford 2s v Berkhamsted 2s

Softball Fixtures

Gameday 1 from Sunday 4 May Harpenden v St Albans Abbots Langley v Kings Langley Hertford v Hitchin Gameday 2 from Sunday 18 May Hitchin v Abbots Langley Kings Langley v Harpenden St Albans v Redbourn Gameday 3 from Sunday 1 June Abbots Langley v Redbourn Hertford v St Albans Hitchin v Kings Langley Gameday 4 from Sunday 15 June Kings Langley v Hertford St Albans v Abbots Langley Redbourn v Harpenden Gameday 5 from Sunday 29 June Hertford v Harpenden Hitchin v Redbourn Kings Langley v St Albans Gameday 6 from Sunday 13 July St Albans v Hitchin Redbourn v Hertford Harpenden v Abbots Langley Gameday 7 from Sunday 27 July Redbourn v Kings Langley Harpenden v Hitchin Abbots Langley v Hertford Note – Softball fixture dates being arranged at time of publishing. (Date flexibility is provided for softball teams.) Please check https://hertswomenscl.playcricket.com/Matches

One Hundred Cup 27 April Harpenden Luton Town & Indians Hertford 1st June Ampthill Tring Broxbourne 29 June Harpenden Luton Town & Indians Ampthill 13th July Hertford Broxbourne Tring 10 August Harpenden Ampthill Tring

v Broxbourne v Ampthill v Tring v Harpenden v Luton Town & Indians v Hertford v Tring v Hertford v Broxbourne v Harpenden v Luton Town & Indians v Ampthill v Luton Town & Indians v Hertford v Broxbourne

FINALS DAY, Berkhamsted CC - 7 September, 12 noon

One Hundred Plate Group A 27 April Dunstable Knebworth (North Harts) 1 June Luton Women & Girls Ickwell 29 June Knebworth (North Harts) Luton Women & Girls 13 July Dunstable Ickwell 10 August Luton Women & Girls Knebworth (North Harts) Group B 27 April Harpenden 2 St Margaretsbury 1 June Abbots Langley Cheshunt 29 June Cheshunt Harpenden 2 13 July Abbots Langley Cheshunt 10 August St Margaretsbury Harpenden 2

v Ickwell v Luton Women & Girls v Knebworth (North Harts) v Dunstable v Ickwell (2 games) v Dunstable (2 games) v Knebworth (North Harts) v Luton Women & Girls v Ickwell v Dunstable

v Abbots Langley v Cheshunt v St Margaretsbury v Harpenden 2 v Abbots Langley (2 games) vSt Margaretsbury (2 games) v Harpenden 2 v St Margaretsbury v Abbots Langley v Cheshunt

FINALS DAY, Berkhamsted CC - 7 September, 12 noon

41

Safeguarding Policy Statement The Hertfordshire Women’s Cricket League is committed to ensuring everyone participating in cricket does so in a safe, friendly, secure, and enjoyable environment. Everyone, whether as a player, coach, official, administrator, staff member, volunteer, spectator, parent, or carer has a role to play. Individually and collectively, it is our actions, both on and off the field which can help create a positive and inclusive culture.

We will do this by: • Having the right people in place • Creating the right culture and environment • Ensuring clear processes are in place for reporting and responding to safeguarding concerns • Adopting the ECB’s Safe Hands Policy and Guidance

Having the Right People in Place

Whilst everyone has a responsibility for Safeguarding, we also have a designated League Safeguarding Officer who has completed specialist Safe Hands training provided by the ECB. The League Safeguarding Officer is: • The first point of contact for all children, parents/carers volunteers, and members of the League • Responsible for ensuring that everyone who is working with children is subject to appropriate safer recruitment processes • A member of our committee • A source of safeguarding advice for the League, its committee, and members • The Leagues’ main point of contact for the County Safeguarding Officer, the Cricket Regulator Safeguarding Team and other external safeguarding agencies • The person responsible for ensuring correct and comprehensive reporting procedures exist for raising and managing safeguarding concerns.

Creating the Right Culture and Environment All participants in cricket, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ability or disability, have the right to enjoy the game in an environment that is safe from abuse of any kind. The League recognises that safeguarding starts with setting high standards and promoting a positive culture which provides the best environment for participants to enjoy themselves and the game of cricket.

Anyone in a specialist role within the League is also required to complete the Safeguarding for Specialist Roles training with the relevant additional module. This includes Captains and Team Managers, Coaches and Activators, Officials (Umpires and Scorers) and Committee Members.

• We encourage all of our members to complete the ECB online Safeguarding Induction, which can be accessed here • We ensure that all individuals working at or for the League are provided with the necessary support through education, training and continued professional development (CPD) 42

• We ensure that all individuals working at or for the League are recruited and appointed in accordance with ECB Safer Recruitment guidance and relevant legislation and are committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and fun experience for children • We promote a listening culture where the views of children, parents/carers, volunteers and other League members are proactively sought and acted upon.

This helps us to create an environment where people have the opportunity and confidence to raise concerns, including concerns about poor practice, abuse and neglect • We seek to create a partnership with parents/carers so that they know what to expect from us and what we expect of them • We ensure that external organisations who are delivering services on behalf of the League have safeguarding measures in place which meet the requirements of Safe Hands.

Reporting and Responding to Safeguarding Concerns It is our aim that everyone from the League should feel confident to raise a concern, no matter how small. We believe that raising and dealing with concerns quickly, when they occur, supports a proactive safeguarding culture.

All suspicions, concerns and allegations will be taken seriously. We will follow the 3R’s with every concern: Responding appropriately, Recording confidentiality and Reporting where necessary, ensuring that concerns are dealt with in a fair and prompt manner.

The League recognises that it is not the responsibility of club members to determine or investigate if abuse has taken place, but to act upon and report any concerns promptly.

We ensure that confidential information relating to safeguarding matters is shared appropriately and only with those who need to know. Information may need to be shared with the County Safeguarding Officer, Cricket Regulator Safeguarding Team, or local agencies with statutory responsibility for safeguarding. If we are unsure, we will seek advice from our County Safeguarding Officer.

Adopting the ECB’s Safe Hands Policy and Guidance

• The League has formally adopted the ECB’s Safe Hands Policy and guidance as part of our constitution • The League works within the ECB Safeguarding Procedure for the management of safeguarding investigations • We ensure that all individuals who work and volunteer at or for our League understand how Safe Hands applies to them.

League Commitment Hertfordshire Women’s Cricket League is committed to this Safeguarding Policy Statement and will review it on an annual basis.

League Safeguarding Officer: Andy Knill-Jones. safeguarding@hertswomenscl.co.uk

The full Safeguarding Policy is on the HWCL website.

43

Registration and Match Day Procedures Team selections

Each captain (or designated person) must record their players’ names via https:// hertswomenscl.play-cricket.com/ by 9am on the day of the match. Please note, team sheets cannot be entered through the HWCL League website.

A list of registered players is recorded on the HWCL Play-Cricket site and the players for the particular match can be selected by clicking on each player.

All physical team sheets must be counter-signed as valid by one non-playing umpire (where there are umpires) and by the opposition captain.

Match Day - before the toss

A minimum of 15 minutes and maximum of 30 minutes before the start time, both captains shall hand a completed team sheet to the umpires or, where no nonplaying umpire, to the opposing captain.

A match cannot start until completed team sheets have been exchanged

The Toss.

It is recommended that the umpires are present at the toss. This is to ensure that all relevant match rules and regulations are discussed and agreed, including but not limited to the various ECB directives.

Facilities Marking

The continued improvement of standards throughout the League benefits all clubs and enhances the status of the League. In the HWCL’s inaugural year, the following reporting procedures will apply: In the Premiership division, facilities will be the sole responsibility of the umpires officiating on the day and will be entered into the ‘whostheumpire’ website.

In the Championship division, Herts Hundred Cup and Plate Competition, we would encourage away teams to enter a facilities report into Play-Cricket. If they would like to report any concerns with regards to pitch and facility suitability, they should email: admin@hertswomenscl.co.uk We will look to provide a clear standard for each division following the first season of the HWCL, which will apply in 2026. At a minimum, we would ask clubs to adhere to the basic standard for: 1. Pitch; 2. Outfield; 3. Sightscreens; 4. Boundaries; 5. Scorebox; 6. Pavilion The 'basic' guidelines are set out on page 52.

Cricket balls

The home club is required to supply umpires with all match balls and sufficient spare balls. In its inaugural season of Hardball cricket, spare used balls may be used from the previous season of the HCWCL until clubs build a batch of HWCL balls. The umpires may delay the start of a match if no suitable spare balls are provided.

44

After the Match Results reporting

All via: https://hertswomenscl.play-cricket.com/ The home team is responsible for posting the match result on play-cricket, as follows: a) By 10pm on the day of the match: the team totals, wickets taken, overs bowled and result. b) By 11pm on the Wednesday following the match: the full scorecard including names of match officials. c) Failure to meet these requirements will result in a fine of £30 for each occasion, payable by the Home Club to the League.

Any problems - contact Results Secretary, Richard Mason, Tel: 07491 834644.

E: results@hertswomenscl.co.uk

Reporting through the Herts League app App Login 1.

2.

3.

4.

Open the app on your device Enter your username and password (only needs entering first time) You will see the current and previous matches for the team which you captain - If logged in using the Admin user then all matches for your Club will be shown - Both League and Cup matches are shown A U and F indicate if Umpire and Facilities Marks are entered (Green lettering when completed).

BOTH teams to complete team sheets and mark umpires.

AWAY teams to mark facilities

Umpires Marking Premiership Marks for umpires are to be entered by both captains via the form on the ‘Who’s The Umpire’ system (www.whostheumpire.com) by 9pm on the Wednesday following every match. Any problems must be reported immediately to: Jon Holland. E: joncarole81@hotmail.co.uk T: 07948 718178.

Penalty: Each failure to report by the Wednesday - 5 points deducted.

45

Substitutes and Runners General The Laws provide for the umpires to determine whether a substitute or runner is to be allowed. In matches where there are no non-playing umpires the captains must take this responsibility and act fairly and impartially in accordance with the Laws.

Substitutes The captain may request a substitute for any member of the team who becomes ill or injured at any time after the team sheets have been given to the umpires (or the opposing captain if there are not non-playing umpires). Team sheets must be provided before the Toss takes place.

A substitute is not allowed if a player leaves the field for any other reason.

If a player comes into a match with an injury a substitute is not permitted unless the injury is made worse during the match.

A substitute may also be allowed for other “wholly acceptable reasons”. As a guide this would mean someone in the team who was an on-call doctor or someone who had a family member involved in an accident or emergency. In general this does not cover someone simply arriving late at the match without an acceptable reason.

A substitute may field in any position but may act as wicket-keeper only with the consent of the umpires. He/she may not bat, bowl or act as captain.

Runners A batter will be allowed a runner if he/she becomes ill or injured at any time after the team sheets have been given to the umpires (as above) and the illness or injury affects his/her ability to run.

For the avoidance of doubt where there are non-playing umpires the consent of the captain of the fielding side for a Runner is not required.

A Runner must: 1.

Be a member of the team

2.

Have already batted, if possible. If an Opening Batter requires a Runner the person who acts as the Runner must not be listed to bat in the first 6. When a wicket falls the dismissed Batter shall become the Runner.

3.

Wear the same external protective equipment as the Batter for whom he/she is running (pads, gloves and helmet, as applicable) and carry a bat. Further, if the Runner is Under-18 he/she must wear a helmet.

Runners may only be changed with the approval of the umpires.

46

Helmets

Safety Guidelines

Any player under the age of 18 playing in the Saracens Hertfordshire Premier Cricket League or County 20/20 matches must wear a helmet when batting and when standing up to the stumps when keeping wicket. The Umpires must be provided with a team sheet before the start of each match identifying any player who is in under 19 or below age groups. Captains, Coaches, Managers, and umpires must always ensure that a young player wears a helmet.

Youth players as umpire

Where youth players are required to stand as an umpire, only as a last resort should players aged under 18 umpire any part of a match, unless qualified as an umpire or by agreement between both captains. Where possible, any under 18 Umpire should stand only at the striker’s end, (i.e., square leg), with an adult at the bowler’s end.

Captains’ responsibilities.

The Captain is responsible for the safety of all youth players in his/her team.

Captains must ensure young players wear a helmet in adult cricket regardless of the speed of the bowling or the circumstances of the match. Captains must also ensure when placing their field that young players do not infringe the fielding regulations for young players issued by the ECB.

Responsibility and action of umpires

Umpire’s should establish before the start of any match the age group of all young players taking part in the match. Such players MUST be identified on the team sheet, exchanged at the beginning of a game. This may require a meeting with the manager, coach, or captain. When the captain has indicated that there are young players taking part, the umpires should remind the captain that he/she is responsible for the safety of the young players throughout the match. The umpires should not allow play to proceed if the young player is not wearing a helmet in line with League and ECB regulations.

What are the legal implications?

If a young player receives a head injury in a situation where the guidance had not been followed, there is a material risk that the person responsible for the player at the time the injury was sustained would be potentially liable for damages for negligence. To establish negligence, it would be necessary to show: • that a person owes the cricketer a duty of care • that the person acted in breach of that duty of care; and • that the cricketer suffered loss or damage because of that breach.

Normally, the Captain will be responsible for identifying who was responsible for the safety of the player at the time the injury was sustained.

47

Guidance and advice

The League and the ECB offer guidance on a number of playing regulations, directives and the Laws. Full details are available on the League website. Here are summaries of the main items and links to relevant documents you can find there.

Helmets

All players under 18 must wear a helmet when batting or when standing up to the stumps when keeping wicket, with their ages identified on the team sheet. Captains and umpires must ensure that a young player wears a helmet. The ECB strongly recommends that all adult recreational cricketers should wear helmets. Additional information on the web site includes general advice on safety, BSI Standard, women’s helmets, recommendations on what clubs need to do, and insurance.

Attempting to Run out the Non-Striker

Following a change to the Laws, this dismissal has moved from Law 41 Unfair Play to Law 38 Run Out. In summary: At any time from the moment the ball comes into play until the instant when the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball, the non-striker is liable to be Run out if he/she is out of his/her ground.

The instant when the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball is defined as the moment the bowler’s arm reaches the highest point of his/her normal bowling action in the delivery swing.

Guidance The key aspect of the law are “the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball” and “highest point of his/her normal bowling action”. This is the point in the action when the bowler would normally release the ball. The bowler attempting to run out the non-striker must stop their run up before their arm reaches the point when the ball would normally be released. If so, and they break the wicket with the non-striker out of their crease and there is an appeal, then the non-striker is out. Further details on the Law, plus Spirit of Cricket guidance, at bowler’s end, at

Ground Weather and Light

Both umpires should agree, at all times, that conditions do not present an actual and foreseeable risk of injury to any player or umpire. Among the criteria to be considered by umpires, the home club and captains when assessing the fitness of the ground, weather and light for play, are: Fitness of the whole playing area; bowlers’ footholds; free movement of fielders, without slipping; ability of batters to play shots and run freely; no surface water or standing water; good visibility; and the ball, after pitching, does not bounce dangerously.

Lightning: What Should You Do?

Go Indoors Immediately if: There is sudden thunder without lightning, You see lightning in the clouds; You see lightning strike the ground or building etc. nearby; apply the ’40/30 Rule’ – get indoors when thunder is audible within 40 seconds after you see the associated flash (the ‘flash to bang time’) and don’t venture out until thunder has not been heard for 30 minutes.

48

ECB Fast Bowling Regulations

The fast bowling directives are designed to raise awareness of the need to nurture and protect young fast bowlers through their formative years. Limits are as follows: U11 and below: 4 overs per spell, 8 overs per day; U12 & U13: 5 overs per spell, 10 overs per day; U14 & U15: 5 overs per spell, 12 overs per day; U16 & U17: 6 overs per spell, 15 overs per day; U18 & U19: 7 overs per spell, 18 overs per day.

Ages refers to ‘age in years’ (i.e. age on the day of the game). A fast bowler is defined as a bowler who attempts to deliver the ball at high intensity, which therefore includes seam bowlers, swing bowlers and medium pace bowlers. Having completed a spell the bowler cannot bowl again, from either end, until the equivalent number of overs to the length of his/her spell have been bowled from the same end More at: ECB-Recreational-Cricket-Safety-Regulations.pdf

Dealing with Suspect Bowling Actions

The Law states that, once the arm has reached the level of the shoulder in the delivery action, the arm must not be straightened at the elbow joint until the ball has left the hand.

Umpires shoudl establish with the captain of the fielding side whether the action has been questioned previously and been reported to the League. If the bowling action has been not checked and cleared, the umpires shall instruct the captain to suspend the bowler and not allow him to bowl again in the match.

If not previously referred to the League then the umpires shall inform the captain that the bowler will now be reported but the bowler shall not be prevented from bowling unless the umpires together are certain that the action is illegal. The captain shall tehn be instructed to suspend the bowler and not allow him to bowl again in the match.

49

Concussion guidelines

The Government and the Sport and Recreation Alliance publishes UK-wide Concussion Guidelines for Grassroots Sport. This will help players, coaches, parents, schools, and sports administrators to identify, manage and prevent the issue.

The guidelines were developed by an expert panel of domestic and international clinicians and academics in neurology and sports medicine. It aims to improve understanding and awareness of the prevention and treatment of concussion in grassroots sport where trained medical professionals are less likely to be routinely present. It is targeted at people of all ages.

‘If in doubt, sit them out’ is the strapline, making clear no-one should return to sport within 24 hours of a suspected concussion.

Players, parents, coaches, teachers and administrators should read the guidance and familiarise themselves with the necessary steps to: RECOGNISE the signs of concussion; REMOVE anyone suspected of being concussed immediately RETURN safely to daily activity, education/work and, ultimately, sport.

The guidelines include a recommendation to call NHS 111 within 24 hours of a potential concussion, to rest and sleep as much as needed for the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid using devices which involve screen time.

In addition, a graduated return to activity such as work, education and sport is advised to reduce the risks of slow recovery, further brain injury and longer-term problems. Individuals should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional if symptoms persist for more than four weeks.

View the guidelines at: www.sportandrecreation.org.uk/policy/researchpublications/concussion-guidelines 50

Disciplinary Procedures The following sets out a summary of the Disciplinary Procedures adopted by the HPCL. The League has adopted the ECB’s General Conduct Regulations, with some minor modifications.

For full details of The League’s approach to discipline, see the main handbook, page 60.

Disciplinary Chair: George White.

Email: discipline@hertswomenscl.co.uk Tel: 07968 349933

Summary of discipline penalties Level 1 offences:

An automatic 7-day or 14-day ban depending upon incident.

A 2-point deduction for that player’s team. (only in matches with independent panel umpires).

A second Level 1 issued to any player from that same team in the same season - an automatic 5-point deduction for his/her team (only matches with independent panel umpires).

Any subsequent Level 1 offences - a 10-point deduction.

Level 2 offences: A prospective ban of not less than 14-days An automatic 5-point deduction for the player’s team.

A second Level 2 issued to any player from same team in same season - an automatic 10-point deduction for his/her team (only matches with independent panel umpires) Any subsequent Level 2 offences - a 20-point deduction.

Level 3/Level 4 offences: A 25-point deduction (minimum) for his/her team.

51

1. Pitch Basic:

Facilites Marking Guidleines Properly prepared (mown and rolled) to a width of 10 feet. Properly and clearly marked to conform to MCC Regulations and Recommendations (i.e. 5 foot and 1 foot lines). Be of reasonably consistent bounce throughout match and not affording excessive spin or movement off the seam. Adequate set of stumps and bails to be provided together with bowling markers (not left to umpires to provide). Sawdust and cloths available during wet conditions.

Roller available for use between innings. Pitch ends to be cleaned up between innings and necessary re-marking to be done.

2. Outfield Basic:

Adequately mown to provide reasonably true fielding surface. Properly maintained and repaired so that it is free from stones, holes and other hazards. Reasonably flat (slight slopes and undulations not to be penalised)

3. Sightscreens Basic:

One provided at each end of ground. Adequate size (width and height), in good repair and of acceptable white/light coloured facade. Easily moved and in position before commencement of play. (No sightscreen = no points. 1 sightscreen = 4 points maximum). Positioned wholly outside playing area with boundary line adjusted where necessary.

4. Boundaries Basic:

Marked as per divisional requirements. Adequate number of flags and markers. Straight and uniform within contours of ground. At least 50 yards from centre of pitch.

5. Scorebox

(not necessarily applicable to Divisions 7a and below; scoreboard to be marked) Basic: Main total to be clear and moveable (flip-over or lights) to ensure promptness.

Overs, wickets and 1st innings score also to be clearly displayed and easily changed. To be a score box and not just a board, internal seating and table for scorers, providing adequate protection from the elements Box should be clean and tidy. (Old fashioned “telegraph” type scoreboard limited to a maximum of 5 points). A clock, visible from the wicket, must be provided. If no clock is provided this must be reported

6. Pavilion Basic:

52

Changing rooms to be lockable, clean and tidy with rubbish from previous matches removed from the premises. Toilets and wash basins (with separate facilities for ladies) to be in a sanitary condition with adequate supply of requisites. Showers to have good supplies of hot water with temperature safely controlled. Cubicles to be clean and clear of debris / dirt from previous use. Tea to be served on clean crockery and hygienically protected until tea is taken by all players, umpires and scorers.

Clubs, teams & captains Abbots Langley www.abbotscc.hitssports.com

Tel: 01923 440474

Ampthill www.ampthilltown.play-cricket.com

Tel: 01525 840491

Ground

Manor House Ground, Gallows Hill Lane, Abbots Langley, WD5 0BX ///complains.safely.chain Competitions: Championship & Plate 2. Captain: Mia Hobson Tel: 07972 648173 Softball. Captain: Claire Hendry Tel: 07540 940590 Ground

Ampthill Park, Woburn Road, Ampthill, Beds, MK45 2GU ///noise.fights.vibrating Competitions: Premiership & Cup. Captain: Ellie Durant Tel: 07568 582926

Bedford

Ground: Goldington Bury, Church Lane, Bedford, MK41 0AN ///leads.washed.cook Competitions: Premiership. Captain:

Berkhamsted Ground

www.berkhamstedcc.com

Tel: 01442 862014

Kitchener’s Field, Castle Hill, Berkhamsted, HP4 1HE ///tungsten.caked.jacuzzi Competitions: Championship. Captain:

Bishop’s Stortford www.bishopsstortfordcc.com

Tel: 01279 654463

Broxbourne

Tel: 01992 466901

Ground

Cricketfield Lane, Cricketfield Lane, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2SR ///devalued.feelers.custodial Competitions: Championship. Captain: Alisha Maxin Tel: 07901 523021 Ground

www.broxbournecricketclub.com

Broxbourne Sports Club, Mill Lane Close, Broxbourne, EN10 7BA ///edges.dated.love Competitions: Premiership & Cup. Captain: Vickie Fishburn Tel: 07793 227815

Cheshunt Rosedale cheshuntrosedale.play-cricket.com Tel: 01992 623983 Ground

Rosedale Sports Club, Andrews Lane, Cheshunt, EN7 6TB ///alive.ashes.scan Competitions: Plate 2. Captain: Amy Thorne Tel: 07706 310941

Dunstable Ground

www.dunstable.play-cricket.com

Tel: 01582 663735

Lancot Park, Dunstable Road, Totternhoe, LU6 1QP ///cake.bolt.took Competitions: Plate 1. Captain:

Flitwick Ground

www.flitwickcc.play-cricket.com

Tel: 01525 715100

The Hardy Vale, Flitwick Road, Westoning, Beds, MK45 5AA ///templates.eyepieces.guard Competitions: Championship. Captain: Holly Reeder 07495 385498

Harpenden Ground

www.harpenden.hitscricket.com

Tel: 01582 763620

The Common, Harpenden, AL5 2JD. On A1081, ½ mile south of town centre. ///wages.faster.game Competitions: Premiership & Cup. Captain: Elizabeth Ruxton Tel: 07935 405605 Championship & Plate 2. Captain: Lucy Barrow Tel: 07585 806559 Softball. Captain: Georgia Vallat Tel: 07966 141810 53

Hertford www.hertfordcricketclub.co.uk Tel: 01992 581983 Ground

Balls Park, Mangrove Road, Hertford, SG13 8AJ ///resist.silly.point Competitions: Cup. Captain: Kanchana Gamage Tel: 07793 070442 Softball. Captain Emma Lovell. E-mail: emmalovell73@icloud.com

Hitchin Ground

www.hitchin.play-cricket.com Tel: 01462 434468

Lucas Lane, Hitchin SG5 2LU ///mugs.butter.modest Competition: Championship. Captain: Rebecca Bell Tel: 07775 374595

Ickwell

Ground: Ickwell Green, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 9EF ///composer.spouse.berated Competitions: Championship & Plate 1. Catain: Abbie Haskell Tel: 07736 309412

Kings Langley www.kingslangleycc.hitscricket.com Tel: 01923 400500 Ground

The Common, Vicarage Lane, Kings Langley, WD4 9HS ///hush.armed.chain Competition: Softball, Captain: Katie Ellingham E-mail: kdell14@hotmail.co.uk

Knebworth Park (North Harts) www.kpcc.org.uk Tel: 01438 813894 Ground

Old Knebworth Lane, Knebworth, Herts, SG3 6HQ ///stores.cloak.soda Competition: Plate 1

Luton Town & Indians www.lticc.net Tel: 01582 727855 Ground

Wardown Park, Old Bedford Road, Luton, Beds, LU2 7HA ///buck.score.formal Competitions: Championship & Cup 1. Captain: Rena Patel Tel: 07738 010347

Luton Women and Girls CC Ground

Lancaster Avenue Recreation Ground, Luton LU2 7AD ///vanish.shins.arts Competitions: Championship & Plate 1. Captain:

Redbourn www.redbourncricketclub.uk Tel: 01582 793949 Ground

The Pavilion, North Common Road, Redbourn, AL3 7DB ///diary.spite.moved Competitions: Championship. Captain: Abby Harris Tel: 07772 108364 Softball. Captain: Abby Harris Tel: 07772 108364

St Albans Ground

www.stalbanscc.com

Tel: 01727 850388

Clarence Park, Clarence Road, St Albans, AL1 4NF ///trails.green.undulation Competitions: Premiership. Captain: India Newman Tel: 07889 149739 Softball. Captain: Laura Knill-Jones Tel: 07538 610496

St Margaretsbury www.stmcc.org.uk Ground

Tel: 01920 870473

The Recreation Ground, Station Road, Stanstead Abbotts, SG12 8EH ///digits.nurses.fend Competitions: Premiership, Plate2.

Captain: Holly Grace E-mail: hollygrace.hg@gmail.com

Tring Park Ground

www.tringcricket.co.uk

London Road, Tring , HP23 6HA ///devours.lads.rats Competitions: Championship, Cup. Captain: 54

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