The following letter has been sent to County Cricket Boards by Nick Pryde, the ECB Director of Participation & Growth. It is reproduced verbatim below:
Hello all,
After the Prime Minister’s comments today around the return of cricket, I wanted to write to you all this evening to share our desire and commitment to see the return of recreational cricket. Additionally, I also want to reassure you that we are continuing to work hard with Government to achieve this.
As you know, cricket is a non-contact sport, with very low risks of exposure, and that it can be played as safely as many other activities being currently permitted. It is our strong desire to work with Government to see the return of recreational cricket on or around 4th July, as they continue to lift other restrictions more broadly across society.
It is heartening that the Government has already permitted the return of other ball sports, including tennis and basketball, and we are sure that our interpretation of the risks around ball transmission is consistent with these other games. Any guidance we share with the game will include directions on how to mitigate any risk from handling the ball as we continue to prioritise the health and safety of the cricket family in all our decision-making.
I ask that you continue to work closely with your clubs and leagues to prepare for the season and I will provide an update on tomorrow’s call. We will shortly release a public statement that reflects this sentiment.
Regards,
Nick Pryde
Director of Participation & Growth
England and Wales Cricket Board