The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is calling on recreational players to have their say and influence the future of the sport at grassroots level in its third annual National Cricket Playing Survey.
Leagues across the country are being encouraged to introduce innovative formats, rule changes, different start times, shorter travel distances to matches and greater opportunities for women, girls and disability cricketers to play the game.
The 2015 survey is now open and aims to generate new and innovative ideas which will help to retain existing players and increase take-up of the sport. Every player, from Premier League cricketers to the occasional Sunday friendly player, is being urged to have their say on all aspects of the recreational game.
Last year more than 37,000 current and former players nationwide responded to the survey – giving the ECB a fresh insight into how best to improve and support the grassroots game.
And this year ECB and its network of County Cricket Boards and leagues are keen to hear an even wider range of views, because they really can make a difference.
Nearly 100 leagues have already revised structures or formats this season based on player feedback over the last twelve months, including:
- 14 have reduced game day travel time by localising the league or division
- 44 have changed the timing of games so that they finish earlier and leave time for other activities on Saturday nights
- 35 have made changes to the length of the game by reducing the number of overs responding to those that want a shorter game
- 44 have introduced new ideas for those players who want a new format (mid-season T20, end of season 6 a side)
- 100 leagues have signed up to the Get the Game On campaign to look at ways in which more games get played including flexible rules and provision in the case of wet weather
Gordon Hollins, ECB Chief Operating Officer, said: “We had an excellent response to this survey last year and we’re keen to hear from even more cricketers across the county this summer. It’s a great way for players of all ages and experience to give feedback, make suggestions and actively influence the future of the amateur game. Whether it’s varying match times, changing formats or experimenting with rule changes, we’re open to all ideas which will help boost participation and we would urge every player to have their say and help shape the future of grassroots cricket.”
The National Cricket Playing Survey is live here and will be available until 11:59am Wednesday 15th July 2015.
