All clubs must follow the ECB's policy on playing under-age children in Open Aged Cricket. The policy is based on safeguarding children above all and is detailed in the Safe Hands Kit Bag. All Club Safeguarding Officers are aware of the situation and must ensure that their club captains are also aware.
Updated regulations and new guidance have been introduced to enhance the safety of those involved in recreational cricket, in particular U18’s. The updated document outlines what’s new, what’s staying the same and how you can find out more information.
Major changes include:
- Male players aged under 18 MUST wear a groin protector (box) when also required to wear a helmet.
- Regulations apply to a player's age, not their age group.
- Players aged 12 can play open age cricket.
- Written approval MUST be obtained from parents/guardians and the County Pathway Lead before a player aged 11 and who has started School Year 7 is eligible to play open age cricket.
- Clubs MUST have regard to certain considerations before playing a junior cricketer in open age cricket or in an age group above the player's actual age group.
- Umpires, captains and team managers MUST take certain steps to enforce the new safety regulations in matches.
- Reduction in the number of overs per bowler, per spell and other additional regulations.
- Updated fielding regulations relating to ages and distances from striking batter.
The ECB also recommends:
- Each club appoints at least on First Aider, and that at least one First Aider is present when any cricket activity is taking place at the club.
- Clubs carry out risk assessments for activities at their club to inform necessary safety procedures.
- Clubs have fully stocked First Aid Kits and develop annual Medical Emergency Action Plans.
- All coaches, umpires, captains and team managers undertake concussion e-learning and a basic life support course.
- Fast bowlers aged 19 or under:
- Consider adhering to recommended maximum and minimum numbers of overs bowled each week, as well as certain recommended rest periods.
- Follow a 'Ready to Bowl' programme to build up to regular bowling following a break from bowling of two weeks or longer.
| Age In Years | Max Overs Per Spell | Max Overs Per Day |
| 11 and below | 4 | 8 |
| 12 & 13 | 5 | 10 |
| 14 & 15 | 5 | 12 |
| 16 & 17 | 6 | 15 |
| 18 & 19 | 7 | 18 |
Clubs and competitions are urged to familiarise themselves with the full documentation attached at the bottom of this page.
