The “straw poll” at the recent AGM clearly indicated that the historical precedent for Two Counties clubs to provide a tea between innings must be reconsidered.  These views cannot be disregarded but nor can the views of those clubs who wish to retain the status quo with regard to the provision of teas.  It should also be pointed out that there is no actual Championship rule on this – it has just developed over time into an accepted norm.

The MSC discussed the matter in some detail and the following will apply from the start of the 2022 season:

  1. The default will be for there to be no provision for teas by the home team in the break between the innings.
  2. If a club wishes to provide teas for all participants, they must contact the opposition by the Tuesday of the week of the match to confirm that this is what they wish to do.  They should also inform at the same time any paid official, such as an umpire or scorer. Any cost will be the responsibility of the home club. There will be no requirement for the opposition to provide reciprocal facilities in a reverse fixture.
  3. Whenever a home club decides that they would not provide a tea in the break between the innings but would instead provide catering facilities of any type after the match for the participants and officials then all should be advised by Tuesday of the week of the match. The cost for this will be met by those who participate.
  4. It will be a requirement for all home clubs (regardless of a decision on the above) to provide tea, coffee or soft drinks for all players in the match in the break between innings.  This cost will be the responsibility of the home club.

As this is a matter of considerable importance which changes the way that catering in cricket matches has traditionally operated, we would ask that all clubs discuss this issue and advise Rick Jones of their intentions with regard to catering for the 2022 season in respect of 2 and 3 above.

We would ask that your answers, together with any other observations you wish to make, would be returned by Friday 14th January.  This narrative has also been sent to all Championship Representatives.