Lancashire League Handbook 2017

53 fielder within 15 yards of the striker may retreat to a position on the same line no more than 15 yards from the striker. The Umpires will signal a free hit by (after the normal No Ball signal) extending one arm straight upwards and moving it in a circular motion. 3.14. Players are allowed to rub mud off the ball and rub the ball in sawdust. 3.15. The League Executive will arrange the supply of Grade A cricket balls which will be the only official match ball in First Eleven League &Worsley Cup matches. Each side to bat its own ball which must be a new one. 4. (11) PLAYING CONDITIONS 4.1. The captains shall decide as to the fitness of the ground for the commencement of a match. In the event of disagreement a majority of the captains and umpires shall decide, and should they disagree play shall not commence. 4.2. When a match has been commenced and then stopped by rain the question of the resumption of play shall be decided by the Umpires only. 4.3. During the Match the Umpires shall be in complete control deciding all questions relating to the fitness of the ground, weather and light for play without the need for consultation with any other party. 5. (12) COVERING AND ROLLING WICKETS 5.1. Wickets may be protected against wet weather before a match at the home Club’s discretion by covering the whole or both ends. Covers must not be used at one end only and, when used only at the ends, each end must be covered on a similar area in relation to the position of each wicket. After the match has commenced, if play is interrupted by weather, the home Club will be responsible for covering (and uncovering) the whole wicket if possible at the direction of the Umpires. 5.2. Before the Match the pitch may be rolled at the request of the batting captain - such rolling to be completed no later than 5 minutes before play is due to commence and such rolling not to exceed 7 minutes. 5.3. Rolling the wicket between the innings in League matches must not exceed 7 minutes (or less at the option of the captain of the side about to bat). 5.4. Watering of Wicket. Under no circumstances shall the pitch be watered after 9 p.m. on the day but one previous to the match being played. 5.5. Any infringement of these regulations shall be deemed an offence punishable by a fine (Category 3 (Rule B5(e)) and any additional penalty the League Committee may determine. 6. (13) LATE START, FINES etc. 6.1. If either Club is not ready to commence play at the time appointed in Rule F3.1 or commits any breach of that Rule or Rule F4, such Club must be reported to the League Secretary by the Captains and Umpires. At a subsequent meeting the League Committee will decide what penalty, if any, shall be imposed (Category 3 Rule B5(e)).