Bassetlaw and District Cricket League Official Handbook 2016

10 Appendices 217 Restrictions ECB Helmets, Fast Bowling Directives and Fielding Regulations should always be adhered to for junior players in Open age group cricket Minimum age #1 Players who are selected in a County U12 squad in spring for a summer squad or in another squad deemed by ECB Performance Managers to be of a standard above ‘district level’ for that season are eligible to play Open age cricket Players who are selected in a County U12 squad in spring for a summer squad or in another squad deemed by ECB Performance Managers to be of a standard above ‘district level’ for that season are eligible to play Open age cricket This is providing that they are at least 11 years old, are in School Year 7 on 1 st September in the year preceding the season, and have written parental consent to play. In allowing these players to play in open age cricket it is essential clubs and coaches recognise the ‘duty of care’ obligations they have towards these young players This means boys and girls who are county squad and area squad players, are able to play open age group cricket if they are in an U12 age group and are a minimum of 11 years old on 1 st September of the year preceding the season District and club players who are not in a county or area squad must wait until they reach the U13 age group, be in Year 8 and be 12 years old on 1 st September of the preceding year before being able to play in any open age group cricket. As before written parental consent is required for these players The duty of care should be interpreted in two ways: • Not to place a young player in a position that involves an unreasonable risk to that young player, taking account of the circumstances of the match and the relative skills of the player • Not to create a situation that places members of the opposing side in a position whereby they cannot play cricket as they would normally do against adult players In addition, the guidelines note the need for clubs and leagues to recognise the positive experience young players should have in open age cricket. Clubs should provide an opportunity for players to show their talents in an appropriate way #1 The NCB policy on the minimum age for junior players playing in open age cricket within Nottinghamshire overrides the ECB guidance above. The NCB policy is covered under League Rule 5.5(i)c and Appendix 5.