ECB Rallies Support From Recreational Players

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is calling on recreational players to influence the future of the sport at grassroots level in its third annual National Cricket Playing Survey.

Leagues across the country are being encouraged to introduce innovative formats, rule changes, different start times, shorter travel distances to matches and greater opportunities for women, girls and disability cricketers to play the game.

The 2015 survey, which is now open, aims to generate new ideas which will help to retain existing players and increase participation in the sport. Players from across Premier League cricket to the occasional Sunday friendly player are being urged to have their say on all aspects of the recreational game.

In 2014 more than 37,000 current and former players nationwide responded to the survey, with almost 100 leagues revising structures or formats this season based on player feedback. Key changes include: 14 leagues have reduced game day travel time by localising the league or division, 44 have changed the timing of games so that they finish earlier and 44 have introduced new ideas for those players who want a new format (mid-season T20, end of season six a side).  

Gordon Hollins, CEO, ECB, commented: “We had an excellent response to this survey last year and we’re keen to hear from even more cricketers across the country this summer.

“It’s a great way for players of all ages and experience to give feedback, make suggestions and actively influence the future of the amateur game.

“Whether it’s varying match times, changing formats or experimenting with rule changes, we’re open to all ideas which will help boost participation and we would urge every player to have their say and help shape the future of grassroots cricket.“

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