This was the first time that such an undertaking was held in Cricket Leinster and it turned out to be a very successful day. Due to the high level of interest it was not possible to discuss all items listed on the agenda. Of the total of 42 clubs, 41 who played in competitions in 2016 and also Gorey who are entering competitive cricket in 2017, there were representatives from 31 clubs. It was disappoointing that, despite extensive advertising of the day, some clubs failed to have a representative at any of the sessions.
The afternoon was taken up by a presentation from Warren Deutrom, CEO Cricket Ireland, on the new Strategic Plan. In addition Brian MacNeice also explained the reasons why the Union is considering changing from the present structure to a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG). Interesting discussion followed both presentation with those present favouring the change in structure. This will now be put before the Annual General Meeting of the Union to be held in Clontarf C.C. on Thursday 17th November at 7.45.
In the morning all the items discussed were related to the playing of cricket. While all decisions will be made by the relevant committee in some cases they will need further discussion with the clubs before any decision is made.
The morning got underway with a discussion on the use of coloured clothing for all cricket. This was mainly favoured by those teams in higher divisions. The use of pink balls had two aspects when they should be used and the quality of the cricket balls. In general they were felt to be easier to see in the evenings and in grounds without sight screens but it was felt that the quality needed to be consistent. Overall the feeling was that they should be used all the time in a particular competition or not at all for consistency. Overall it was felt that no matter what colour cricket ball was being used the standard should be consistent.
It was strongly felt that the 60 over senior cup is no longer suitable. Various suggestions were made to change it to a 50 or 40 over competition or to change it to a T20 competition. In general while it was felt that more T20 cricket was desirable it should not be at the expense of the cup but maybe have another look at the structure of the Alan Murray cup. It was also agreed that whatever changes were made should not impinge on women’s and youths cricket or ground preparation.
There was general agreement that the women should play a 50 over competition at weekends.
The play off in Divisions 1 and 2 was considered by those present to be a success and as agreed last year will be reviewed for the coming season. The playing in division 2 of second teams from clubs was discussed briefly and the clubs were not unanimous in their agreement but a show of hands was strongly in favour. Another suggestion was that matches should be reduced on the day of the original fixture further if delayed by weather and this might alleviate the necessity for so many mid-week re fixes. Those teams playing in leagues 3 down felt that their cricket was well balanced bwtween League, T20 and cup competitions. It was felt that some regionalisation of leagues might be considered. It was agreed by those at the meeting that one day wides should not be at divisions lower than 4.
The idea of a development league was explained by Guy Satchwell. The idea being to have a team of adults and under age players. While more work needs to be done on the details it was felt to be a good idea and it was suggested by Jim Bennett that this be a non-competitive league played outside the official structure.
The level of facilities were discussed and it was agreed that clubs must have at least toilet and changing facilities and the grass cut to a level where cricket shots could be played along the ground. It was recognised that some cricket was played in public parks but the members of the club need to be more proactive in dealing with councils about ground preparation and also to arrive in plenty of time to make sure that all is in order for example wicket and boundaries marked, grass cuttings removed from the pitch etc.
A discussion on the Spirit of Cricket took place. It was felt that if official umpires were present then the Spirit was upheld but not always otherwise. With 16 OCC, 3 women and numerous youth leagues and cup competitions it was only possible for official umpires to cover a fraction of them. In an ideal world all matches would be umpired by official umpires and this is the aim of the Umpires and Scorers Association. All clubs were advised of training sessions for new umpires and it is hoped that many more will get involved and umpire even on an occasional basis. One suggestion that each club should provide an umpire for each team in competitions was felt not to be practical or enforceable. It was felt by some that teas during a match were not required apart from ensuring that the umpires did get something. A suggestion was made to have something after the match to try and ensure the social aspect of cricket continues.
There were tables in the room for the various activities associated with the playing of cricket youths, women, coaches, grounds and umpires associations. Also present were the development officers, Lords Taverners and Cricket Ireland. Phil Furlong explained that the mission of the The Lords Taverners is to enable every young person of all abilities to get involved in sport. He asked those present to consider seriously becoming a member to assist them in their mission. The late Derek Scott’s archives are in the care of the Union and some of them were on display and attracted a great deal of interest from those present.