Latest ECB statement on current national restrictions- 4th November

As a result of the UK Government’s new national COVID-19 restrictions, and subject to Members of Parliament voting today and the publication of bespoke guidance from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport [DCMS], ECB understands all organised recreational cricket activity indoors and outdoors will be suspended from 5th November until 2nd December in England. Professional cricket that is classified as elite by the UK Government can continue as an exemption during this period.

Hospitality venues such as cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars and social clubs must close; with the exception of providing food and drink for takeaway (before 10pm; and not including alcohol), click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery.

The UK Government has confirmed that school sport can continue as an exemption during this period but university sport must be suspended. Coach education programmes can continue where this cannot be undertaken online.

The health and wellbeing of everyone in the cricket community has and remains our number one priority and we are in dialogue with DCMS about how recreational cricket activity can return safely once the national lockdown ends

ECB FAQs on current national restrictions- 10th November

Is a cricket ground classed as a public open space?
No, privately owned cricket clubs are private outdoor spaces (in the same way as golf courses) and therefore not open to the public

Can a club use it’s nets for 1 to 1 coaching?
No. Clubs should not be organising any activity using their facilities including the nets.

Can a self-employed coach use a cricket club for coaching?
No. Cricket clubs are considered to be ‘private clubs’ and therefore should not be used for this kind of activity.

If my club is in a public park, can we use the ground for 1 to 1 coaching?
No. Cricket clubs should not be allowing or encouraging anyone to use the cricket club facilities for cricket activity.

Can a player under the age of 18 be coached 1 to 1 in a public space?
No. Coaches should always avoid being 1 to 1 with a player under the age of 18.

Can extra-curricular sessions be run after school?
Yes. Oliver Dowden has updated the original guidance and after school clubs are allowed to support enhanced physical activity for children and to offer provide enhanced child care to support working parents

If you have any further queries or questions then please contact Matt Counsell, on matthew.counsell@somersetcricketboard.org