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LEAGUE RULES
1. The Title
a. The League shall be called The North Staffordshire and South Cheshire Premier Cricket League [The League].
b. The Executive Board of the League [The Executive] may add the name of a sponsor to the League title.
2. Aims, Objectives and Principles of the League
a. The promotion of cricket within the geographical area of the League, with the security of the fulfilment of fixtures.
b. The promotion of cricket within the geographical area of the League, for the enjoyment of Players, Officials and Spectators.
c. To provide a safe and positive environment where cricket can be played and watched by all who reside within the geographical area of the League.
d. To support and encourage children and young people in their development by providing a safe and positive environment where they can play cricket at the highest level their ability will allow.
3. League President and Life Vice Presidents
a. There shall be a President of the League [President] who can be nominated by any Club or the Executive and shall be elected at an AGM and hold the position for a maximum of five years.
b. There shall be Life Vice Presidents of the League [Vice Presidents] who can be nominated by any Club or the Executive and shall be elected at an AGM and hold the position for life.
c. The President and Life Vice Presidents may attend any League meeting.
4. Membership of the League
a. By virtue of their membership of the League every Club explicitly acknowledges and accepts the League Rules and undertakes to be bound by them.
b. No Club Member, League Officials, Umpire or any other person connected with the League shall make public pronouncement or disparaging comment which is detrimental to the game of cricket, the League, League Officers, Match Officials or any Club.
c. The League shall be open for membership to clubs in North Staffordshire, South Cheshire and surrounding areas. It shall comprise of divisions, each divided into two sections. Section A will be of the 1st Teams and Section B will be of the 2nd Teams.
d. There shall be promotion and relegation for the 1st Teams.
e. There shall be separate promotion and relegation for the 2nd Teams which shall operate on the same basis as the 1st Teams.
f. There will be a non refundable administration Fee of £100 payable by any Club that applies to become a member of the League, other than those promoted via the pyramid system.
g. All Clubs must have an appointed Welfare Officer who must be CRB cleared and who’s details must be submitted to the League Manager. The Club’s Welfare Officer shall be a member of the Club’s Management Committee.
h. No Club shall be allowed to play in the Premier Division unless they have achieved and maintained Clubmark Accreditation by the 31st October in the preceding year.
i. All Clubs shall have a dedicated Club telephone and it must be available in the Clubhouse at all times and the number displayed in the League Handbook and on the League Website.
5. Clubs with 3rd & 4th XI Teams
a. The League may include the 3rd and 4th XI’s of any Club at the discretion of the Executive.
b. There may be 3rd and 4th XI’s, referred to as the A teams, that are part of the member Clubs or as an amalgamation of two member Clubs.
c. The amalgamated Clubs must share the same Constitution and Management Committee. For the purposes of League rules reference to ‘Club’ is to the amalgamated Club/s and all four XI’s shall be considered to be one Club.
d. For the purposes of subscriptions, representation, voting at meetings and League Rule 36g they shall be seen as separate Clubs.
e. The 3rd XI, the A team, shall be considered the second strongest XI of the Club and must consist of the strongest second XI players within the Club to maintain the principle of a club selecting their strongest team [except where the ‘Seeded Player’ rule applies].
f. No two teams from the same Club shall play in the same Division. Should the team being promoted to a Division in which another team from that Club already plays or is likely to play the lower Club XI shall remain in its existing Division. Should the team being relegated to a Division in which another team from that Club already plays or is likely to play the lower Club XI shall be relegated or not promoted.
g. The Club must nominate 7 Players of proven 1st XI standard [Seeded Player]. Such Players shall only be permitted to play in the 1st or corresponding 2nd XI of that Club.
h. The list of Seeded Players must be agreed between the Club and the League Manager no later than 31st March each year and will be reviewed after 7 matches and 14 matches of each season.
6. Subscriptions and finance
a. In consultation with the Clubs the Executive shall determine the financial contributions each Club shall make to the League by 1st March prior to each season.
b. The date of payment by Clubs shall be determined by the Executive and in the case of default a fine of £5.00 shall be incurred for each week of default.
c. Unless otherwise stated within these Rules monies owing to the League for any goods or services must be paid within 21 days of the receipt of an invoice or goods or when specified to do so by the Executive. If any part of the monies owing is not paid by the due date then a further penalty of 100% of the original amount will be automatically imposed. If the original amount or further penalty remains unpaid 14 days thereafter then the matter will be referred to the Executive who may impose any penalty available in Rule 20
7. Management
a. The League shall be managed by the Executive, which shall have full powers to manage the League.
b. The Chairman, Vice Chairman, League Secretary, Treasurer, Umpires’ Secretary, League Welfare Officer, League Webmaster and League Legal Adviser [Elected Officers] shall be elected at the AGM.
c. The Executive shall consist of the Elected Officers, League Manager, League President and one delegate from each Division.
d. The Chairman shall not be considered as a representative of any member Club and shall have a casting vote.
e. Nomination for any or all of the Elected Officer positions may be made by Clubs or the Executive and must be made in writing to the League Manager by the 31st August each year.
f. The League Manager will notify all Clubs of such nominations for their consideration within seven days after the 31st August.
g. The divisions of the League shall hold a minimum of 4 divisional meetings within each year, with one senior officer from each Club attending each meeting.
h. The League Manager and/or one or more of the Elected Officers shall attend all the divisional meetings.
i. As soon as is practical following the AGM there shall be a divisional meeting when each division shall elect one delegate to sit on the Executive.
8. Meetings
a. There shall be a minimum of 3 full meetings of all Clubs [League Meetings] each year and these shall be:
• A pre-season meeting during March or April.
• A pre AGM meeting in October.
• The AGM in November.
b. The Executive may call any other meetings it deems necessary.
9. Annual General Meeting [AGM]
a. Shall be held no later than the 30th November of each year.
b. The following shall be appointed at the AGM:
• Selection Committee who shall select the teams representing the League.
• Ground Inspection Committee whose responsibility shall be the League’s Ground and Facilities requirements
• Regulatory Board
• Appeals Board
10. Special General Meeting [SGM]
a. Shall be called by:
• The written request of a majority of Clubs ie 25 Clubs; or
• The Executive; or
• A majority vote at a League Meeting.
b. An SGM must be held not later than 21 days after it has been called.
c. Clubs shall given 14 days notice of an SGM.
d. The notice shall state the business of the SGM and only such business shall be conducted.
11. Quorums
a. Quorums shall be:
• AGM and SGM shall be 39 Clubs in attendance.
• League Meetings shall be 25 Clubs in attendance.
• Executive meetings shall be 7 members in attendance.
12. Voting
a. Only Clubs shall be entitled to vote at the AGM, SGM and League meetings.
b. Voting at the AGM and SGM shall be by ballot and on the basis of one vote for each Club with a majority of Clubs entitled to vote being required for any proposal to be carried.
c. The ballot paper for the AGM shall be returned to the League Manager no later than 48 hours prior to the scheduled start of the AGM
d. The ballot paper for an SGM shall returned prior to its scheduled start
e. Ballot papers for the AGM and SGM must be signed by the Club Chairman and Secretary. Should either not be available then with the League Manager’s approval another Officer of the Club may sign the ballot paper in their place.
f. Any ballot paper not returned on time or not signed as required shall be void.
g. The failure of a Club to submit a ballot paper on time shall be fined £20.
h. Voting at League Meetings shall be by a show of hands and on the basis of one vote for each Club in attendance and with a simple majority being decisive
13. Clubs not represented at meetings
a. Shall be fined:
• A Divisional Meeting £10.
• A League Meeting £25.
• An AGM or SGM £35.
14. Pre-season Captains’ meeting
a. There shall be a pre-season Captains’ meeting when each Club must have a minimum of one representative from each team within the League who shall be the Captain, Vice Captain or Senior Player of each team.
b. Failure to attend the Captains’ meeting will result in a fine of £10 for each team not represented.
15. Additions or amendments to League rules
a. The Executive may add to or amend League Rules at any time regarding the issue of ECB guidance or directives.
b. Any club may submit to the League Manager a proposal for any addition or amendment to the League Rules which shall be considered at an AGM or SGM called for that purpose. Proposals for the AGM must be received by the League Manager before 1st September prior to the AGM and for an SGM in accordance with Rule 10.
c. Proposals from Clubs at an AGM or SGM must be signed by the Secretary and Chairman of the Club.
d. The League Manager shall notify all Clubs of proposals for rule changes 21 days prior to the AGM and provide them with a ballot paper.
16. Election of additional Clubs
a. The election of additional clubs must be made at the AGM or an SGM called for such a purpose.
17. Fixtures
a. Shall be arranged between Clubs in each division who shall then play home and away matches with other members of the division on days determined by the Executive.
b. The 2nd XI of the Club shall play on the same ground as the corresponding 1st XI of that Club.
c. Clubs shall play its best available team and 11 players in all matches.
d. Umpires shall report any failure where a team does not field 11 players in all matches within 3 days of any such failure.
e. A Club may re-arrange two 2nd XI home fixtures per season provided there is agreement with the opposing Club. Both Clubs must inform the League Manager and the Umpires’ Secretary by 28th February preceding the season concerned.
f. A player is not eligible to play in a re-arranged 2nd XI match if he has been selected or played the previous day (Saturday) for the 1st XI except that any player who has been selected or played in more than half the 2nd XI matches on the date of the re-arranged match will be eligible to play.
g. The League Manager will permit a change of a re-arranged fixture in circumstances which he considers appropriate.
18. Failure to fulfil a fixture
a. If any club does not fulfil its engagements for whatever reason it shall be fined as follows:
• If the home Club £100.
• If the away Club shall be fined £150.
• If the away Club the additional £50 shall be paid to the home Club as compensation for lost revenue.
b. If a League match the Club failing to fulfil its engagement shall not be awarded any points and the opposing Club shall be awarded 25 points.
c. If a Cup match the Club failing to fulfil the engagement shall be expelled from the competition and the opposing Club shall progress to the next round or in the case of a final shall be declared the winners of the competition.
d. In addition the matter will be referred to the Executive who may impose further penalties in accordance with League Rules.
19. Breaches of League Rules and Code of Conduct
a. Any alleged breach of the League Rules shall be addressed by the Regulatory Board of the League [Regulatory Board] or the Executive except where standard penalties have been imposed.
20. Procedures for breaches of League Rules or Code of Conduct
a. In any case referred to the Regulatory Board or Executive a minimum of seven days’ notice of any hearing shall be given to any Club, player or official concerned unless it is not reasonably practicable to do so. Notice given to a Club is deemed to be notice to any Player or Official of that Club.
b. Any Club or individual subject to any Penalty may appeal against it unless an appeal is specifically excluded by any other rule.
c. Any such appeal must be made in writing to the League Manager within 3 days of receipt of notice of the decision made or penalty imposed. A payment of £100, which will be refunded if the appeal is completely successful, must be tendered to the League Manager within 3 days thereafter.
d. Any appeal against a decision of the League Manager or the imposition of a standard penalty in accordance with the League Rules shall be to the Executive.
e. Any appeal against any decision of the Regulatory Board or Executive shall be to the Appeals Board.
f. Any hearing will be convened by the League Manager as soon as is reasonably practicable.
g. Any person who can provide evidence relating to the matter in issue may attend the hearing. Any other person may also attend at the discretion of the Regulatory Board, Executive or Appeals Board.
h. The Regulatory Board, the Executive and the Appeals Board shall in all cases consist of a minimum of 3 members for the purposes of any such hearing.
i. The hearing may proceed in the absence of any party affected at the discretion of the Regulatory Board, Executive or Appeals Board who may impose any penalty available on any such absent party
j. The decision shall be given at the conclusion of the hearing.
k. In the event of any breach of League Rules one or more of the following penalties may be imposed and any such penalty may be suspended in whole or in part.
• A reprimand.
• A financial penalty.
• A deduction of points.
• Relegation of the Team or Club.
• Expulsion from the League.
• The suspension of any player or official.
• Any other penalty felt to be appropriate in the circumstances.
l. The hearing of any appeal will be a complete re-hearing of the issues and all penalties available within the League Rules may be imposed. In determining the penalties the Board hearing the appeal can consider increasing them from what it would otherwise have imposed if it considers the appeal did not have sufficient merit. Any decision made at an appeal hearing will be final and no further appeal will be allowed.
m. All fines must be paid within 14 days of notice of the decision.
n. If any part of the fine is not paid by the due date then a further penalty of 100% of the original fine will be automatically imposed. If the original fine or further penalty remains unpaid 14 days thereafter then the matter will be referred to the Executive who may impose any penalty available in clause k.
21. Points awarded in League matches
a. A win shall be 25 points for the winning side if batted first.
b. A win shall be 20 points for the winning side if batted second.
c. A tie shall be 5 points to each team in addition to the bonus points accrued during the match.
d. A draw shall be 5 points to the team with the highest scoring rate per over provided that a minimum of 30 overs per side has been bowled, in addition to the batting and bowling bonus points it accrued during the match. An incomplete over shall count as one over bowled.
e. Points awarded to each team for an abandoned match shall be either the batting and bowling points accrued or 2 points whichever is the greater.
22. Batting and bowling bonus points
Batting:
1 Point for 75 Runs.
2 Points for 100 Runs.
3 Points for 125 Runs.
4 Points for 150 Runs.
5 Points for 175 Runs.
Bowling:
1 Point for 2 Wickets.
2 Points for 4 Wickets.
3 Points for 6 Wickets.
4 Points for 8 Wickets.
5 Points if a side is all out.
23. Disqualification
a. In the event of any Club being expelled or resigning from the League during the season, all matches that club has played in that season shall be void.
24. Division winners, promotion and relegation
a. In each division the team scoring the highest number of points shall be declared champions of that division.
b. The top two teams in Divisions 1, 2 & 3 shall be eligible for promotion to the division above.
c. The bottom two teams of the Premier and Divisions 1 & 2 shall be relegated to the division below.
d. The bottom two teams in Division 3A shall be relegated to the Stone League, as will also their respective 2nd XI’s regardless of their position within the League.
e. The top two teams in the Stone League shall be promoted to Division 3A and their respective 2nd XI to Division 3B.
f. In the event of teams having the same number of points the team with the most number of wins shall be placed the higher. If two or more such teams have the same number of wins then the team scoring the greater number of points in the matches played between them in that season shall be placed the higher.
g. Should any promotion or relegation remain unresolved then there shall be a Play-Off.
h. Should any team due to be promoted not fulfil the Grounds and Facilities Criteria and Junior Teams Criteria [The Criteria] of the Division above it shall not be promoted and the team finishing second to bottom shall not be relegated.
i. Should both teams due to be promoted not fulfil the Criteria of the division above then they shall not be promoted and the teams finishing in the relegation positions of the division above shall not be relegated.
j. Should any team not finishing in a relegation position not meet the Criteria of that division then it shall be relegated in place of the team finishing second to bottom of that division and should there be two such teams they shall both be relegated in place of the bottom two teams.
25. Play-Off rules and conditions
a. The date, time, hours of play for play-offs shall be determined by the League Manager.
b. The competing clubs shall toss for choice of ground.
c. The home club shall be responsible for paying the umpires. If they organise a raffle and/or charge an admission fee the balance after any costs shall be divided equally between the competing clubs.
d. The matches shall be of 45 overs per team or until the batting side has been dismissed.
e. If the start of the match is delayed then 2 overs shall be deducted from the match total of 90 for every 7 minutes lost. Each team will lose an equal numbers of overs from its original 45.
f. In the event of a match being interrupted or unfinished for any reason the ICC Duckworth Lewis Calculator shall apply.
g. No result can be achieved unless a minimum of 20 overs have been bowled at each team or a team has been bowled out in less.
h. If no result is achieved then the date, time and hours of play for a replay shall be determined by the League Manager. It shall take place at the same ground. If no result is achieved by the replay then a Bowl Off will take place in accordance with Rule 58 k.
26. Promotion from the Stone League
a. The Chairman and Secretary of the Club[s] eligible for promotion from the Stone League shall:
• Confirm in writing to the League Manager by the 30th September their intention to take up the promotion.
• Sign a declaration on behalf of the Club agreeing to comply with the League Rules and must deliver it to the League Manager by 31st October.
27. Averages
a. All averages will be taken from the League Website at the end of the season. It is the responsibility of each club to ensure that records and information relating to that club are accurate and in the detail required as determined by the Executive.
28. Club records and accounts
a. All clubs shall keep proper records, accounts and minutes of Club meetings and must publish an annual statement of accounts. The Executive can require a club or player to produce any records, accounts or any other documents.
29. Representative matches
a. No match representative of the League shall be played unless sanctioned by the Executive.
30. Approaching League players
a. During the current season no Club or Club member shall approach, either directly or indirectly, a player from another Club within the League with a view to encouraging that player to transfer from his Club.
31. ECB Directives
a. The following ECB Directives and Guidance are deemed to be incorporated into the League Rules. These are all available on the ECB Website.
• ECB Safety Guidance on the Wearing of Cricket Helmets by Young Players.
• ECB Fast Bowling Directives.
• ECB recommendations for junior cricket, juniors playing in adult cricket, and fielding regulations.
32. Welfare
a. The League is committed to the ECB Safe Hands policy. Clubs must ensure that they are fully familiar with this policy and implement it within their Club.
b. Clubs shall advise the League Manager and League Welfare Officer of any welfare issue or matter that arises within their Club, including any disciplinary matter or action or any other relevant matter as soon as it is practicable at the conclusion of the Clubs investigation or disciplinary process.
33. Junior teams criteria
a. All Clubs must operate the minimum number of Junior Teams in recognised Leagues in the following age groups: under 9yrs, under 11yrs, under 13 yrs, under 15yrs and under 17yrs. The minimum number per Club must be:
• Premier Division 3.
• Division One 2.
• Division Two 2.
• Division Three 1.
b. Soft Ball Cricket must be available for the under 9yrs age group at all Clubs within the League.
c. All Clubs must have and provide coaches that have as a minimum the ECB Coach Award or its equivalent who are involved in the coaching of the Club’s young players and the minimum of such coaches shall be:
• Premier Division 2.
• Division One 2.
• Division Two 1.
• Division Three 1.
34. Grounds and Facilities criteria
a. All Clubs must satisfy the Grounds and Facilities Criteria of the League which shall be determined by the Executive prior to each season and made available on the League Website.
b. Members of the Grounds Inspection Committee [the Committee] shall be able to attend and inspect a Club’s ground and facilities at any time.
c. All Clubs shall have their grounds and facilities inspected no later than the 31st May in each season. The Committee may at its discretion conduct a further inspection in August or September [the August Inspection].
d. Marks shall be awarded to the Club following an inspection and any Club failing to meet the minimum requirement for their division shall be advised of the work needed to do so.
e. Clubs shall normally be given a minimum four days notice of an inspection unless it is the result of a report from an Umpire in which case the inspection can be at shorter notice.
f. A Club which fails to meet the minimum requirement of their division or the division above in the event of potential promotion at the August Inspection may appeal [see Rule 20].
35. Annual awards
a. All trophies must be returned to the League Manager each year by 31st August. Failure to do so will result in a fine of £20 being levied on the Club concerned.
b. All trophies must be returned in a clean and undamaged condition. Any repairs or cleaning required will be carried out by the League at the expense of the Club concerned.
c. Where a trophy was awarded to an individual any fine payable or expense incurred shall be borne by the Club of whom he is a member at the time of return of the trophy.
36. Qualification and registration of Players
a. The League shall be considered ‘open’ and payment in cash or kind may be made by a Club to any of its registered players.
b. Clubs must electronically register all players.
c. No player may be electronically registered after the 30th June in any season without the written permission of the League Manager.
d. No player may play in a 1st XI match unless an application to register him electronically has been made prior to 9.00pm on the Thursday preceding the match in which he first plays. However for a player playing in the 2nd XI the application to be electronically registered may be made up to midnight immediately following the match.
e. By virtue of their registration every player explicitly agrees to be bound by the League Rules.
f. Clubs must register each player in the appropriate category of the ECB regulations regarding the qualification of players, a copy of which is available from the League Manager.
g. In any one season a Club can only register or play one player contracted to play for a First Class County or one player who is a Non-Ordinarily Resident Player. However in addition a Club may play any player who has been given a First Class County contract who was registered with that Club before his 16th birthday and has not played in a League match for any other Club in any League.
h. It is the Club’s responsibility to ensure that any player registered is eligible to play and be registered. The Club must be able to produce such evidence as may be necessary in support.
37. Players playing in another League
a. A Club may not register or play a player who has played for another Club in any League in the same season, except in the following circumstances:
b. Where the player changes his residence and the League Manager has given his written approval.
c. Where the Club concerned plays in the NSD Phoenix League or is a 1st Class or Minor County Cricket Club.
d. Where the player is attending a full time further education course and either the educational establishment or the player’s family home is local to the Club and the League Manager has given written approval.
e. A Junior Player under the age of 17 as defined by ECB regulations may play for a Club outside the League or the Stone League Premier Division and remain eligible to play for their first registered club within the League with the written permission of the League Manager.
f. Where a Player transfers Clubs in accordance with Rule 39.
38. Playing an ineligible Player
a. In a League match the Club shall forfeit all points gained.
b. In a Knock Out match the team will be expelled from the competition for that season and the match awarded to its opponents.
c. In all cases the matter will be referred to the Regulatory Board which may impose additional penalties in accordance with League Rules
39. Players transferring Clubs
a. Any player who has played in a League match for any Club in any League in the last two seasons shall be considered to be a member of that Club. Should that player wish to play for another Club then he must complete the League’s current Transfer Form which must be received by the League Manager by the end of February.
b. The form must be signed by the Chairman or Secretary of the Club the player is leaving and of the Club that he is transferring to.
c. A player shall not be allowed to transfer from one club to another if he has financial or other obligations to the club he is leaving.
d. Any transfer may be cancelled before the transferred player has played for his new club.
e. There will be a Transfer Window from 20th May to 31st May during which any player who has not played for the club to which he is registered for that season shall be eligible to transfer to another club.
LEAGUE MATCH REGULATIONS
40. General
a. The Laws of the MCC shall apply in all matches except where otherwise stated in the League rules.
b. No match shall be played on a non-turf pitch without the written permission of the League Manager.
c. All Premier Division Clubs and those Clubs with 3rd & 4th XI’s playing in the League must submit team sheets to the League Manager by 10.30pm on the Wednesday preceding the match. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in a £20 fine for each occasion and the matter may be referred to the Regulatory Board.
41. Match decision
a. Matches shall be decided on the basis of one innings for each side.
42. Watering of grounds
a. The pitch shall not be artificially watered less than 36 hours before the scheduled start of a match.
43. Fitness of the ground, weather and light
a. The Umpires are solely responsible for the decision regarding the fitness of the ground, weather or light.
b. Under no circumstances shall play start or restart while it is raining.
c. The Umpires must inspect the pitch immediately after the rain stops and determine a time for a match to start or restart or for further inspection.
d. Should there be a delayed start of a match or a subsequent interruption then the drying out of the pitch and surrounding areas by artificial means shall take place under the supervision of the Umpires.
e. The home Club shall be responsible for providing such artificial means and ensuring adequate and appropriate efforts are made.
44. Covering of the pitch
a. All Clubs must provide covers which shall be waterproof and cover an area of 84ft X 10ft minimum.
b. The area to be covered will be the pitch and bowler’s run up to 9ft beyond the wickets [thus totalling 84ft x 10ft].
c. The covers must be placed over the area to be covered in the 36 hours prior to the match when weather conditions justify or on the instruction of the Umpires when a match is interrupted or likely to be interrupted by rain.
d. It shall be the responsibility of the home Club to place the covers over the area to be covered.
e. Failure to comply with these rules shall result in a £20 fine for each occasion and the matter may be referred to the Regulatory Board.
45. Sightscreens, boundary marking and clock
a. Clubs shall provide the following:
• Efficient sightscreens at each end of the ground beyond the wickets and in the case of Premier Division Clubs sightscreens which cover both sides of the wicket at each end of the ground to facilitate bowling from either side of the wicket without the need to move them.
• A clearly defined boundary of the playing area.
• A working clock which can be seen from all areas of the field of play, which shall be used as the match clock. Should no working match clock be available the Umpires shall identify an alternative clock or watch to act as a replacement.
46. Abandonment of matches
a. Umpires shall not declare a match abandoned without prior consultation with the Captains but the final decision will rest with the Umpires.
47. Cricket balls
a. All balls used in all League competitions must be provided through the League and bear the League logo.
b. Prior to the 31st January each year the Executive shall determine which balls will be used in which League competitions and will notify all Clubs accordingly.
c. Either a new ball or a used ball of good quality and condition agreed with the Umpires must be used at the commencement of each innings of a 2nd team match.
d. The balls must be given to the Umpires before the toss takes place.
e. In League and Talbot Shield matches the away team Captain shall have first choice of ball.
f. In the event of a dispute regarding the balls to be used the Umpires must ensure the match commences on time with the balls provided and then report the facts to the League Manager.
48. The toss and commencement of Matches
a. Each team must provide the Umpires with a completed team sheet prior to the toss showing the full names of all the players and dates of birth of all players aged 20yrs and under who will be taking part in the match duly signed by the Captain. Failure to do so shall result in a fine of £20 and the matter may be reported to the Regulatory Board.
b. The toss must be completed at least 15 minutes and no more than 30 minutes before the start of a match and shall be supervised by an Umpire.
c. The team winning the toss must communicate its decision to bat or bowl to an Umpire and the opposing team immediately following the toss.
d. A bell shall be rung by the Umpires 5 minutes before the start of each innings or 5 minutes before the end of the tea interval whereupon the Umpires shall take their positions on the field immediately followed by the fielders and batsmen.
e. A team which does not have 7 players present at the ground at the time of the toss shall forfeit the toss.
f. A match shall not commence unless both teams have a minimum of 7 players present at the scheduled start.
g. If a team does not have the required 7 players present at scheduled start time it shall be allowed a further 30 minutes to do so. If a team does not have the required 7 players present 30 minutes after the scheduled start it shall forfeit the match and the matter will be reported to the Regulatory Board.
h. A team that does not have 11 players present at the scheduled start can be made up to full strength within two hours of that scheduled start, after which no player arriving may take part.
i. Captains shall neither ask nor be allowed a substitute for a player who is late taking the field.
49. Late starts
a. In the event of a late start caused by a Club a fine of £20 shall be imposed and the matter may be reported to Regulatory Board.
50. Scoring and match reporting
a. All clubs must ensure that all matches are scored and reported properly and in the correct manner.
b. Captains are at all times responsible for the correctness of the score.
c. A fine of £20 shall be imposed for any breach of the following:
• Clubs must provide a competent scorer for each match.
• Captains shall fully complete and sign the Match Information Sheet which must be sent by the home Club to reach the League Manager within 3 days of the match.
• Captains shall fully complete and sign the Umpires Report Form which must be sent by the home Club to reach the Umpire Secretary within 3 days of the match.
• The home Club must electronically submit the full match score card, including points awarded and deducted, by midnight on the day of the match.
and the matter may be reported to the Regulatory Board.
d. The home Club must display on its scoreboard the information as required in the Grounds and Facilities Criteria.
PLAYING REGULATIONS FOR LEAGUE MATCHES
51. Hours of play and duration of 1st XI League matches
a. Matches in April and the last 2 matches in August shall commence at 12.30pm and have a scheduled close of play of 7.30pm.
b. Matches in September shall commence at 12.00noon and have a scheduled close of play of 7.00pm.
c. At all other times matches shall commence at 1.00pm and have a scheduled close of play of 8.00pm.
d. Matches shall consist of a minimum of 110 overs and the side batting first restricted to 55 overs, except where a match is affected by fitness of ground, weather or light in which case the remaining overs shall be calculated by the Umpires using the Overs Adjustment Table. Should a side be dismissed or declare before reaching its allocation of overs then any complete unused overs will be available to the side batting second.
e. Matches shall not take place if the minimum number of overs available at the start is less than 50.
52. Hours of play and duration of 2nd XI League matches
a. Matches in April and the last 2 matches in August shall commence at 1.00pm and have a scheduled close of play of 7.30pm.
b. Matches in September shall commence at 12.30pm and have a scheduled close of play of 7.00pm.
c. Matches at all other times shall commence at 1.30pm and have a scheduled close of play of 8.00pm.
d. Matches shall consist of a minimum of 100 overs and the side batting first restricted to 50 overs, except where a match is affected by fitness of ground, weather or light in which case the remaining overs shall be calculated by the Umpires using the Overs Adjustment Table. Should a side be dismissed or declare before reaching its allocation of overs then any complete unused overs will be available to the side batting second.
e. Matches shall not take place if the minimum number of overs available at the start is less than 46.
53. Tea
a. There will be a Tea interval of 30min between innings which shall be taken no later than 4 hours after the scheduled start of play but can be taken earlier at the discretion of the Umpires whose decision shall be final.
b. Clubs to honour what the home Club arrangements are for teas.
54. Drinks
a. Drink intervals shall be agreed between the Captains and Umpires prior to the toss.
55. Over rate
a. The minimum over rate required in each innings is 17 overs per hour. An incomplete over shall count as one over bowled. In the event the required over rate shall not be met points shall be deducted from the bowling side as follows:
• 1 point for less than 17 overs per hour.
• 2 points for less than 16 overs per hour.
• 3 points for less than 15 overs per hour [and so on].
b. Points shall not be deducted if the innings is less than two thirds of the overs available at the start of the innings.
c. Points shall only be deducted from points gained in that match.
d. In calculating the over rate the Umpires shall allow time for:
• Lost ball.
• Injury to a player or Umpire.
• Drinks interval which shall be deemed to be 3 minutes.
• Drying the ball in wet conditions.
• One minute for each wicket taken except where it brings the innings to a close.
• Any other exceptional circumstances determined by the Umpires.
56. Timed out
a. The incoming batsman must be in position to take guard or for his partner to receive the next ball within 2minutes 30seconds of the fall of the previous wicket. Failure to do so will result in the incoming batsman being ‘Timed Out’ on appeal.
57. Batsman changing equipment
a. A batsman may call for a helmet to be brought out to him at any time but he must wear it when on strike or carry it at all other times while play is in progress. The batsman may not have the helmet taken off the field except at the fall of a wicket or between overs or at an interval.
b. A batsman may only change any item of equipment with the approval of the Umpires.
58. Umpires
a. The League shall have a panel of Umpires and neutral Umpires shall be appointed to all matches when there are sufficient Umpires to do so.
b. The expenses paid to Umpires shall be determined by the Executive prior to each season and Clubs to be notified by the 1st March each season.
c. In all cases the home Club shall be responsible for payment of the Umpires’ expenses which shall be paid prior to the commencement of play. In the Twenty/20 competition the other competing Clubs shall reimburse the home Club on the day of the match, a proportionate share of those expenses.
d. The Umpires’ Committee shall consist of the League Vice Chairman, League Manager, Umpires’ Secretary, Assistant Umpires’ Secretary, Umpires’ Assessor and Umpires’ Training Officer.
e. The Umpires’ Secretary shall manage the Umpires’ appointments on a fair basis and keep a record of them.
f. Within the panel of Umpires there shall be a Premier Panel from which the Umpires’ Secretary shall appoint to Premier Division matches.
g. Where only one Umpire is appointed the home Club shall be responsible for providing a second Umpire.
h. Where no Umpires are appointed each Club shall be responsible for providing an Umpire.
i. Umpires provided by Clubs shall have the same status and responsibilities and be paid the same expenses as any appointed Umpire.
j. No person other than the appointed Umpires may enter the Umpires’ room without their consent.
k. The Umpires may only enter the players’ changing room with the consent of the relevant Team Captain.
l. Umpires must ensure that all matches start, and resume following an interruption or interval, punctually.
m. For both 1st and 2nd XI Premier and Division One matches appointed Umpires shall complete the Pitch and Facilities Report and Fair Play Report and for all matches the relevant sections of the Match Information Sheet.
n. Umpires shall report any behaviour which they consider falls below acceptable standards to the League Manager within 3 days of the match. They shall also immediately following the match notify the team Captain or other appropriate Official of the Club.
o. Should the Umpires consider the playing area deficient they shall report the matter to the Grounds Inspector for that area as soon as possible on the day of the match and to the League Manager the day after. A report shall be sent to the Club concerned by the League Manager within 3 days of him receiving it from the Chairman of the Grounds & Facilities Committee or the Grounds Inspector.
COMPETITIONS
59. Knock Out competitions
a. The Executive will arrange such competitions and all necessary draws.
b. For all such competitions in addition to the normal requirements the playing area shall be marked out as follows:
• Two semi circles with a radius of 30yards shall be marked on the field of play. They shall have their centre as the middle stump at either end of the pitch. They shall be linked by two parallel straight lines. This area will be marked with discs of a 7inch diameter and is referred to as The Circle.
• A crease drawn 17inches inside the return crease from the popping crease to the bowlers crease at both sides of the wicket.
c. An incomplete over shall count as one over bowled.
d. The delivery following a no ball called for a foot fault shall be a free hit for whichever batman is facing it.
e. If the delivery for the free hit is not a legitimate delivery then the next delivery will become a free hit for whichever batsman is facing it.
f. Field changes are permitted for free hit deliveries providing all effective fielding restrictions are adhered to.
g. For any free hit the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a no ball.
h. A wide shall be any ball that:
• On the leg side passes behind and does not touch the batsman.
• On the off side passes outside the 17 inch crease at the popping crease.
i. Where a match is completed the team with the highest score shall be the winner. Should the scores be equal the winner shall be determined in accordance with the Golden Over Rule.
Golden Over
j. A one over per side eliminator will take place.
• The Umpires shall stand at the same end as that in which they finished the match.
• The Umpires shall choose which end to bowl and both teams shall bowl from the same end.
• Prior to the start of the eliminator each team must elect three batsmen and one bowler and notify the Umpires.
• The team batting second in the match will bat first in the eliminator.
• The same ball [or a ball of a similar age if the ball is out of shape or lost] as was used at the end of each team’s innings shall be used for that team’s extra over.
• The loss of two wickets in the over ends the team’s innings.
• In the event of the teams having the same score after the eliminator has been completed then a further eliminator will take place for which these rules shall again apply.
Bowl Off
k. The bowl off.
• It shall take place on any pitch, including practice and/or artificial pitches, that the Umpires deem appropriate.
• The pitch used must have a full set of stumps and bails at each end.
• Each team must nominate 5 bowlers and notify the Umpires before the toss for the bowl off takes place.
• A toss shall take place and the team winning the toss shall decide whether to bowl first or second.
• A nominated bowler from the team bowling first will bowl two deliveries. A nominated bowler from the team bowling second will then bowl two deliveries. This process will be repeated until all five nominated bowlers from each team has bowled two deliveries.
• No balls or wides will count as a delivery and no additional ball may be bowled in its place.
• The team hitting the wickets and removing the bails in the process, the greater number of times shall the winner.
• Should each team hit the wickets and removing the bails the same number of times, then the bowl off will continue on a sudden death basis with the team bowling first nominating a sixth bowler, who will bowl two deliveries followed by a sixth bowler from the team bowling second who will also bowl two deliveries. Should each team have hit the wicket the same number of times then this process will be repeated, with a seventh bowler and so on until there is a clear winner.
• No bowler from each team shall bowl more than two deliveries in a bowl off until all eleven players in his team has bowled.
• Should there still be no clear winner the bowl off will continue on a sudden death basis but with each bowler bowling one delivery.
60. The Talbot Cup
a. The Talbot Cup is for Section A XI’s and the rules shall be as for League matches except where otherwise stated in this rule.
b. A bye shall be given in the 1st round to Premier Division A Clubs and the top four Clubs of Division One A in the previous season
c. All matches shall be played on dates determined by the Executive and the scheduled start time for matches shall be:
• 2.00pm during May, June & July.
• 1.00pm during April & August.
• 12.30pm during September.
d. Each team shall provide its own new ball to be given to the Umpires prior to the start of the match and the home Club shall provide the spare balls.
e. There shall be a tea interval of 30 minutes between innings or earlier at the discretion of the Umpires should there be an interruption in play.
f. Each match shall consist of 45 overs per innings or until a team is bowled out.
g. No bowler shall bowl more than 9 overs in an innings. In a delayed or interrupted match where the overs are reduced no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs allowed. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, one additional over shall be allowed to the maximum number per bowler necessary to make up the balance. In the event of a bowler being unable to complete an over the remaining balls may be bowled by another bowler. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.
h. If the start of the match is delayed then 2 overs shall be deducted from the match total of 90 for every 7 minutes lost. Each side will lose an equal numbers of overs from its original 45. However Matches shall not take place if the minimum number of overs available to each side is less than 20.
i. Each team must have completed their 45 overs within 2hours 45minutes of the start of the innings.
j. In a match in which there has been a reduction in overs then 3½ minutes will be deducted from this time limit for each over lost in the innings. Failure to complete the required number of overs within the allotted time will result in 6 penalty runs being awarded to the batting side for each whole over not bowled. The full allocations of overs must still be bowled.
k. The penalty runs will be awarded immediately the ball becomes dead after the end of the allocated time.
l. During an innings the Umpires shall allow time for:
• Illness or injury to player or Umpire.
• Any drinks interval which shall be deemed to be 3 minutes.
• Drying the ball in wet conditions.
• One minute for each wicket taken except where it brings the innings to a close.
• Any time lost caused by weather or light.
• Any other exceptional circumstances as determined by the Umpires.
m. At the instant of delivery only two fielders shall be permitted outside the Circle during the first 10 overs of each innings and only five fielders thereafter. In the event of an infringement either Umpire will call and signal No Ball.
n. In the circumstances where the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the number of Fielding Restriction Overs shall be reduced in accordance with the following table, 20 to 24 Overs 6, 25 to 29 Overs 7, 30 to 34 Overs 8, 35 to 39 Overs 9, 40 to 44 Overs 10.
o. Should a match not be completed then provided at least 20 overs have been bowled at the side batting second the winner shall be the side that has the higher run rate per over. In calculating the run rate the team batting first will be deemed to have batted its full allocation of overs whether or not it did.
p. If a match cannot take place or a result be obtained on the appointed date then there will be only one attempt at a replay. It will take place the following Sunday unless the home Club’s ground is required for Talbot Shield or unless either club is required to play in a County Cup or National Knock Out match. In that event the clubs shall agree an alternative replay date and notify the League Manager by 5.00pm the following Tuesday. If agreement is not reached then the League Manager shall fix the date, venue and time of the replay.
q. The Final shall be played on the home ground of one of the competing clubs in accordance with the draw. However should the same club appear in both the Talbot Cup and Shield Finals then the Shield Final shall be played on the opposing club’s ground regardless of the draw.
r. At the Final the home Club shall:
• Charge admission of £3.00 per person with half price concessions.
• Organise a raffle and provide the raffle prizes.
• Divide equally between the competing Clubs the admission charges and raffle takings having deducted a maximum of £150 in total to cover the cost of Umpires expenses, raffle prizes and the production of programmes.
61. The Talbot Shield
a. The Talbot Shield is for Section B XI’s and the rules shall be the same as the Talbot Cup rules except as specified in paragraphs b, d & e.
b. A bye shall be given in the 1st round to Premier Division B Clubs and the top four Clubs of Division One B in the previous season
c. All matches shall be played on dates determined by the Executive and the scheduled start time for matches shall be:
• 2.00pm during May, June & July.
• 1.00pm during April & August.
• 12.30pm during September.
d. The home team shall provide 2 used balls of good quality and condition and agreed with the Umpires. If they cannot provide such balls then they must provide 2 new balls. In either case the balls used must be in accordance with Rule 47.
e. Any player who has been selected or played in more than 50% of the Club’s 1st XI League matches so far that season shall be ineligible for the Talbot Shield except that any player who has played in the Semi-Final shall be eligible for the Final.
62. The Twenty/20 Cup
a. The Twenty/20 Cup is for Section A XIs and the rules shall be as for League matches except as follows.
b. A bye shall be given in the 1st round to winners of the Premier League, Talbot Cup and Twenty/20 Cup in the previous season. Should any Club win two or more of the three competitions then the runners up in the Cup competitions shall take their place, with the Twenty/20 Cup runners up taking priority where this applies.
c. Three matches will be played at each venue with the exception of the Final:
• Match 1 will commence at 10.30am and be between the two visiting teams.
• Match 2 will commence at 1.50pm and be between the home team and the loser of match 1.
• Match 3 will commence at 5.10pm and be between the home team and the winner of match 1.
d. The Final shall consist of the winners and runner ups of each group in the semi finals:
• Match 1 shall commence at 10.30am and be between the winner of semi final group 2 and the runner up of semi final group 1.
• Match 2 shall commence at 1.50pm and be between the winner of semi final group 1 and the runner up of semi final group 2.
• Match 3 shall commence at 5.10pm and be between the winner of match 1 and the winner of match 2.
e. Each team shall provide its own new ball for each match it plays in to be given to the Umpires prior to the start of each match and the home Club shall provide the spare balls.
f. Each match shall consist of 20 overs per innings or until a team is bowled out.
g. Each team must have completed its 20 overs within 1 hour 20 minutes of the start of the innings. Failure to complete the required number of overs in the allotted time will result in 6 penalty runs being awarded to the batting side for each whole over not bowled. The full allocation of overs must still be bowled.
h. The penalty runs will be awarded immediately the ball becomes dead after the end of the allotted time.
i. During and innings the Umpires shall allow time for:
• Illness or injury to player or Umpires.
• Any other exceptional circumstances as determined by the Umpires.
j. An incoming batsman must be in a position to take guard or for his partner to receive the next ball within 1 minute 30 seconds of the fall of the previous wicket. Failure to do so will result in the batsman being given Timed Out on appeal.
k. No bowler shall bowl more than 4 overs in an innings. In a delayed or interrupted match where the overs are reduced no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs allowed. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, one additional over shall be allowed to the maximum number per bowler necessary to make up the balance. In the event of a bowler being unable to complete an over the remaining balls may be bowled by another bowler. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.
l. At the instance of delivery for the first 6 overs of each innings only two fielders are permitted to be outside the Circle. Thereafter only 5 fielders shall be permitted outside the Circle. In the event of an infringement either Umpire will call and signal no ball.
m. In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the number of Fielding Restriction Overs shall be reduced in accordance with the following table, 5 to 6 overs 1, 7 to 9 overs 2, 10 to 13 overs 3, 14 to16 overs 4 and 17 to 19 overs 5
n. In the event that adverse weather affects the scheduled start times or completion of matches:
• The Umpires shall determine, in consultation with all Captains, the amended start times and any reduction in the number of overs in each match.
• The minimum number of overs for each innings shall 5.
• Where the number of overs is reduced the maximum overs per bowler will be determined proportionately by the Umpires.
• The team with the faster run rate per over shall be the winner provided that at least 5 overs have been bowled at the team batting second. Should the run rate be the same then the winner shall the team losing fewer wickets in the first 5 overs of their innings.
• In the event that any match cannot be completed on the appointed day then it shall be determined by a bowl off in accordance with Rule 59 k.
• For the avoidance of doubt there will be no replays
o. The winner of each group shall be the team that wins both of its matches:
• In the event that all teams win one match then the team with the highest run rate per over in its two matches, excluding any runs scored in the golden over, shall be the winner.
• Should two or more teams have the same run rate then the winner shall be determined by a bowl off in accordance with Rule 59 k which will involve all teams with the same run rate.
p. At the Final the home Club shall:
• Charge admission of £3.00 per person with half price concessions.
• Organise a raffle and provide the raffle prizes.
• Divide equally between the home Club and the League the admission charges and raffle takings having deducted a maximum of £150 in total to cover the cost of Umpires expenses, raffle prizes and the production of programmes.
q. The winners shall represent the League in the ECB National Club Twenty/20 Competition, however should any of the final rounds [Area/Regional] be played at home then the ground on which they will be played must meet the Grounds and Facilities Criteria for the Premier Division.
MISCELLANEOUS
63. The Code of Conduct
a. The League is committed to maintaining the highest standards of behaviour of those subject to its jurisdiction and incorporates the Spirit of the Game as set out in the Preamble to the MCC Laws of Cricket.
Preamble to the Laws.
Cricket is a game that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its Laws but also within the spirit of the game.
Any action which is seen to abuse this spirit causes injury to the game itself. The major responsibility for ensuring the spirit of fair play rest with the Captains
1. There are two Laws which place the responsibility for the team’s conduct firmly on the Captain.
Responsibility of Captains
The Captains are responsible at all times for ensuring that play is conducted within the spirit of the game as well as within the Laws.
Player’s conduct
In the event of a player failing to comply with instructions by an umpire, or criticising by word, or action the decisions of an umpire, or showing dissent, or generally behaving in a manner which might bring the game into disrepute, the umpire concerned shall in the first place report the matter to the other umpire and to the player’s captain, and instruct the latter to take action.
2. Fair and unfair play
According to the Laws the umpires are the sole judges of fair and unfair play
The umpires may intervene at any time and it is the responsibility of the captain to take action where required.
3. The umpires are authorised to intervene in cases of:
• Time wasting.
• Damaging the pitch.
• Dangerous or unfair bowling.
• Tampering with the ball
• Any other action they consider unfair
4. The spirit of the game involves RESPECT for:
• Your opponents.
• Your own captain and team.
• The role of the umpires.
• The game and its traditional values.
5. It is against the spirit of the game:
• To dispute an umpire’s decision by word, action or gesture
• To direct abusive language towards and opponent or umpire
• To indulge in cheating or any sharp practice, for instance:
a) To appeal knowing the batsman is not out
b) To advance towards an umpire in an aggressive manner when appealing
c) To seek to distract an opponent either verbally or by harassment with persistent clapping or unnecessary noise under the guise of enthusiasm and motivation of one’s own side
6. Violence
There is no place for any act of violence on the field of play
7. Players
Captains and umpires together set the tone for the conduct of a cricket match. Every player is expected to make an important contribution to this.
a. The players, umpires and scorers in a game of cricket may be of either gender and the Laws apply equally to both.
The use, throughout the text, of pronouns indicating the male gender is purely for brevity. Except where specifically stated otherwise, every provision of the Laws is to be read as applying to women and girls equally as to men and boys.
b. The primary responsibility for discipline lies with the Club, Team Captain and players.
c. If any player contravenes the Spirit of the Game or commits any of the offences within Categories One to Five below then he, the Captain and the Club may be dealt with in accordance with the League’s Disciplinary Procedure.
d. The expression player in this context means Player, Club Official and Member or Spectator.
e. Clubs have a duty to take immediate action when notified of a disciplinary matter and such action may be taken into account in determining any penalties to be imposed.
f. On the field of play high standards of dress are required and clubs should ensure that in League authorised matches their players are dressed in ‘whites’ or authorised coloured clothing and only traditional cricket style headgear is worn.
g. Sponsorship lettering on players’ clothing is restricted to a maximum height of 3 inches.
64. The offence code
a. Category One offences are those for which there shall be an automatic suspension for 1 week unless an appeal is lodged are:
i. The deliberate knocking of the stumps or throwing or kicking of a bat ball helmet or any cricket attire boundary mark rope or any match or ground equipment
ii. Dissent – Any action that seeks to question or undermine the authority of the Umpires
iii. Charging or advancing towards an Umpire when appealing
iv. Premature celebrations before an Umpire’s decision is made
v. Pointing or gesturing towards the pavilion upon the dismissal of the batsman.
vi. Throwing the ball in a careless manner at or towards a player or Umpire.
vii. Making comments or gestures that are obscene, offensive or insulting to another player.
viii. Deliberate time-wasting.
ix. Deliberate distraction or obstruction as per Law 37 or 42[5]
x. Damaging the pitch
b. Category Two offences are those for which there shall be an automatic suspension for 2 week unless an appeal is lodged are:
i. Threatening behaviour or intimidation of a player, by word or by action.
ii. Serious and persistent verbal abuse (sledging), using comments or language designed to denigrate and intimidate the recipient.
iii. Excessive, ridiculous and orchestrated appealing.
iv. Persistent questioning of an Umpires decision and actions. Showing serious dissent at an Umpire’s decision by word or action.
v. Changing the condition of the ball other than as permitted by Law 42[3]
vi. The bowling of fast short pitched balls that result in the bowler being disallowed from bowling further in the innings
vii. The deliberate bowling of any high full-pitched ball contrary to Law 42[8]
c. All offences within Category Three, Four or Five offences will be referred to the Regulatory Board.
d. Category Three offences are those for which there shall be a suspension of between 3 to 6 weeks are:
i. Aggravated dissent including the use of foul and obscene or threatening language to an Umpire
ii. Threatening to assault another player.
iii. Using language that is abusive that offends, insults, humiliates, intimidates, threatens, disparages, or vilifies another person on the basis of that person’s race, religion, colour, sexual orientation, descent or National or Ethnic origin.
e. Category Four offences are those for which there shall be a suspension of between 6 to 12 weeks are:
i. Deliberate or violent physical contact on another player.
ii. Threatening behaviour, by word or by action, or intimidation of an Umpire.
f. Category Five offences are those for which there shall be a suspension of a minimum 12 weeks are:
i. Deliberate or violent physical contact to an Umpire
65. The disciplinary procedure
a. It is the Club’s responsibility to ensure the player concerned is kept fully informed of the disciplinary matter and its progress.
b. In the event of a Category One offence the player concerned will be subject to an automatic suspension of 1 week taking effect from 1.00am on the Thursday immediately following the match, unless an appeal is lodged [see Rule 20].
c. In the event of a Category Two offence the player concerned will be subject to an automatic suspension of 2 weeks taking effect from 1.00am on the Thursday immediately following the match, unless an appeal is lodged [see Rule 20].
d. On receiving the report for a Category One or Two offence the League Manager in consultation with the Chairman of the Regulatory Board may, if they consider the automatic suspension insufficient, refer it to the Regulatory Board and in such a case the Umpires will be asked to prepare a more detailed report.
e. In the event of a Category Three, Four or Five offence the Umpires must prepare a more detailed report setting out the incident in full and ensure that it is received by the League Manager within 3 days of the match. He will forward that report on to the club of the offending player as soon as is reasonably practicable.
f. In the event that a player is reported for the second occasion within a twenty four month period for a Category One or Two offence the automatic suspension shall be doubled and the League Manager will inform the club accordingly.
g. In the event that a player is reported for the second occasion within the same season for a Category One or Two offence his club shall have a minimum of 5 league points deducted and a minimum of 10 league points deducted on each subsequent occasion.
66. The League’s drugs policy
a. There should be no distinction drawn between “performance enhancing” and “recreational” drugs.
b. Use or distribution of illegal drugs is a breach of the Code of Conduct.
c. Clubs must ensure that anyone found in possession of any type of illegal drugs anywhere on the club’s premises is asked to leave immediately and barred from the club.
d. Clubs shall advise the League Manager and League Welfare Officer of any situation involving illegal drugs.
e. Every club should have a Drugs Policy which it must display.