Bassetlaw and District Cricket League Official Handbook 2013

216 Appendix 4 – ECB Guidelines for Junior Players in Open Age Cricket The ECB has issued guidance covering the selection and participation of young players in open age group cricket. This is to help clubs decide when to select young players in open age cricket and how best to help their cricketing development when they play within open age groups. The ECB keeps these guidelines under review and, following feedback from clubs and leagues, has revised these guidelines for the 2012 season. The ECB will continue to monitor the impact of these guidelines and you are invited to feedback your thoughts and comments in writing to the ECB Non- First Class Cricket Department. The guidance is as follows: • Making the step up from junior to open age group cricket is a significant event in any player’s cricket experience. Ensure the player’s safety, personal development needs and overall cricket experience are considered • There is no definitive age at which a player should be introduced to open age group cricket, but each case is to be determined on an individual basis, depending on the player’s ability and stage of cognitive and emotional maturity to take part at this level. That said clubs, squad coaches and managers must take into account the requirements on age detailed in the last bullet of this guidance • ECB Fast Bowling Directives and Fielding Regulations should always be adhered to for junior players in open age group cricket • Provide an opportunity for players to show their talents in an appropriate way. Children who are just used as fielders will not fully experience the game