Bassetlaw and District Cricket League Official Handbook 2016

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 2014 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: General • 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 • Clubs, squad coaches and managers must take into account the requirements on age detailed in this guidance • 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 – however, the minimum age guidance provided below must be adhered to • Juniors should be involved in all aspects of the game wherever possible i.e. socialising, team talks, practice, decision making and so on, so they feel part of the team • Children will often feel more comfortable and able to perform if they have a family member of friend also playing in the side • Remember, children’s early experiences will remain with them always and will often determine whether they want to remain playing the game or give up and do something else • 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. • Be supportive, at all times, for all forms of effort even when children are not successful. Try and put them in situations where they will experience some success (however small) and ensure plenty of praise and encouragement • The captain should inform the Umpires of under 18s in the side