If this rain ever stops (!) and we do get a start to the season, then there are some changes to rules and playing conditions agreed for season 2024 of which clubs should be aware. Some of these are listed below.  Please read the Championship Rules and the Schedule of Standards to be found on the website for all the changes – all the changes for 2024 are in bold type…….

  • In Divisions 1 – 3 white or blue marking lines to be painted 17 inches from the return crease to enable interpretation of off side wides. In interpretation the umpires shall only call a wide ball if the ball passes outside of the line when it passes the popping crease.
  • In Divisions below Division 3, white or blue marking lines to be painted 17 inches from the return crease. These are to be used as guidelines for offside and legside wides in non- panel umpire matches.
  • In Division 1 matches of 100 overs batting points shall be 1 point for 125 runs, 2 points for 150 runs, 3 points for 175 runs, 4 points for 200 runs and 5 points for 225 runs. If a Division 1 match is reduced to 45 overs or less for any reason then the points allocation shall be the same as for Divisions 2 and below.
  • In Divisions One to Six there will be a 30 yard fielding circle, which shall be denoted by white discs placed at frequent intervals.
  • Divisions 2-6 over restrictions are as follows:

45 overs per innings – maximum 9 overs per bowler. 40 overs per innings – maximum 8 overs per bowler. 35 overs per innings – maximum 7 overs per bowler. 30 overs per innings – maximum 6 overs per bowler, 25 overs per innings – maximum 5 overs per bowler. 20 overs per innings – maximum 4 overs per bowler

  • The Schedule of Standards now make it mandatory for the home club to provide free of charge a range of drinks (hot or cold) in the break between the innings for visiting officials.
  • The Schedule of Standards now make it recommended for the home club to provide free of charge a range of drinks (hot or cold) in the break between the innings.
  • Panel Umpire’s expenses were confirmed at £50 for each umpire with an additional £5 for each umpire charged to the Home team where a Panel umpire is officiating and no tea is provided.