With the vaccination programme going so well, we are finally seeing a road out of lockdown. The committee thought it would be useful to summarise where we are and what we can expect over the next few weeks and months in relation to the cricket season.
The road map released by government is a useful and positive step, further guidance on the return of recreational cricket is expected shortly (from the ECB) but at the moment we can at least begin to make some plans for the season.
Our fixtures are due to commence as per the fixture card which means we will be able to hold our President’s Game on April 18th following the guidelines. Prior to that we will also be able to have net practice in groups of 6 from Weds 31st March. Teas, use of changing rooms etc. won’t be back to normal until step 4 not before 21st June.
Before 29th March 2021: Stay at home, no nets or meeting at the ground.
Government Road Map – STEP 1
Step 1:
29th March 2021 to 11th April 2021
Up to 6 people (2 Households) can meet outside. Organised grass roots sport can return, and we can run nets on a Wednesday evening for socially distanced groups of six. We have published a form online, as we did last year where players can sign up for a slot. You can sign up now via this link:
Last season’s adapted play COVID restrictions will apply e.g. no changing rooms, no showers, bring your own ball etc. Information will be updated once confirmed by the ECB.
Government Road Map – STEP 2
Step 2:
Not before 12th April 2021 to 16th May 2021 inclusive
During this period the rule of 6 (2 households) still applies yet outdoor hospitality i.e. beer gardens are allowed. We will try to run a bar service and meet the rule of 6 restrictions and will comply with government guidelines at all times. A lot of this will depend on how members respond to the committees call to “be a willing volunteer” as we can’t expect the bar secretary and the usual helpers to carry the entire burden. Restrictions such as only one person in the pavillion, no self serving honesty bar, plastic cups etc. will be required. UPDATE (22nd March) – Drinks are very unlikely to be served until after June 21st (Step 4 starts) as we are advised outdoor drinks can only be ordered by and served to seated people.
We will be bringing our own teas and eating outside at this stage. Changing rooms will still be unavailable. The ECB will advise on rules relating to playing but assume they will be broadly similar to last year e.g. sanitiser every 6 overs etc.
Government Road Map – STEP 3
Step 3:
Not Before 17th May to 20th June 2021 inclusive
The Rule of 6 is abolished and 30 people can meet outdoors. This should make running a bar outside easier and although two households will now be able to meet indoors, we would anticipate sticking with an outdoor bar only for ease. Appropriate social distancing will also be required.
We will continue to bring our own teas and eat outside at this stage. Changing rooms will still be unavailable. The ECB will advise on rules relating to playing but assume they will be broadly similar to last year e.g. sanitiser every 6 overs etc. UPDATE (22nd March) – Drinks are very unlikely to be served until after June 21st (Step 4 starts) as we are advised outdoor drinks can only be ordered by and served to seated people.
Government Road Map – STEP 4
Step 4:
Not before 21st June 2021
All legal limits on social contact will be removed and we return to normal (subject to review). The first home game after this date is against Blue Lion on June 27th at which point we will be able to use the bar as normal. Playing conditions should also be back to normal. We will make sure a tea rota is in place so that members can take their turn providing the teas to the end of the season.
Finally…
We hope that’s been useful to everyone, especially those who have been asking questions related to Covid and cricket. Everything here is of course subject to the government or the ECB changing their advice but let’s hope it really is a path back to normal.
Please remember, we will all need to continue to play our part for a short while longer and continue to adhere to social distancing restrictions and guidance. I’m sure you will all do your part.
Mark Ford-Langstaff – Team Secretary
