ECB outlines return to cricket
The ECB has outlined its roadmap for the return to recreational cricket, subject to Government guidelines.
The England and Wales Cricket Board has given cricket fans the eagerly anticipated news on when recreational cricket can return in England and Wales.
The plans, which are set to be discussed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport this week, would see organized outdoor cricket for up to 30 participants return from 29 March, in line with the current Government guidelines.
Clubs will be able to return to coaching both junior players and adults, however, this must be outdoors and stick to current Government social distancing and safeguarding practices.
Step 2 of the roadmap comes into effect no earlier than 12 April and sees the re-opening of clubhouses, and the return of spectators, and organized junior indoor cricket.
This also provides a boost for clubs with the news that food and beverages can be consumed in outdoor areas, provided that spectators stay within their bubble and the rule of six.
From no earlier than 17 May, the last stage of the ECB's plans sees the return of organized adult indoor cricket and the re-opening of indoor hospitality.
The Craven and District Cricket League have set provisional dates for the 2021 season, which would see Long Lee start the season with an exciting tie at newly-promoted Silsden on 17 April, and finish with an away trip to fellow newcomers Skipton Church Institute on 11 September.
The League has also penciled in dates for the return of the Wynn Cup (1st Team) and the Cowling Cup (2nd Team), which were both canceled last year. The 1st Team has been handed one of the toughest draws away at 2019 runners-up Bingley Congs (tie to be played by 6 June), with the 2nd Team facing a Keighley 3rds side who were knocked out in the first round last time out (tie to be played by 13 June).
We are looking forward to returning to action in the League and Cup, and hope that we will see some familiar faces cheering us on soon.
More information about the ECB's roadmap can be found here: