This article was originally published on August 8th
On 1st October there will be a day-long Open Day in the Green Isle Hotel hosted by Cricket Leinster at which a wide range of issues relating to the playing and administration of cricket in Leinster will be discussed. One of the issues to be discussed is the possibility for creating a Development League with the specific intention of providing an introduction of young cricketers to adult cricket. Guy Satchwell sets out the reasoning behind the suggestion and invites feedback
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The purpose of the new leagues is primarily to provide youth members a stepping stone from the nursery of U13 cricket to full adult cricket. The teams will be made up of youth players up to the U18 age limit and a maximum of 5 suitable adult members who understand the importance of developing young talent. Some clubs will have an abundance of youth players at U15 level whereas others may need a wider spread in ages to make up a team.
At present the lower leagues are very competitive and many matches provide little opportunity for young players to make a contribution. It is also hoped that this form of cricket will encourage older players to stay in the game , and pass on their passion and knowledge of cricket in a suitable environment. Obviously, it is essential that teams/clubs buy into the spirit of the game and a certain amount of self policing is required.
It is envisaged that the games will run from mid June to the end of August. Max of 10 games. This is to allow players to complete exams before getting involved. The games would be 30 overs per side with limitations on bowlers and possibly batsmen as well. There would be a 15 min break between innings for refreshments but not a formal tea. One other suggestion was that where possible an adult and youth bat together.
An added advantage for busy grounds is that matches can be completed by 5pm which allows T20 or youth games to take place in the evening.
To achieve positive results , games must be played on suitable grounds with reasonable quality wickets and outfields. Height of grass in the outfield being of particular concern to encourage players to play ground strokes and develop fielding skills. In addition all players should be encouraged to umpire and keep the scorebook as part of the experience.
So how do we gauge success or failure. .? The general consensus is that results are not the priority. So the league will allow a structure that provides organised matches but there will be no promotion, relegation , league medals etc. The league will offer young players an opportunity to adjust to a new form of cricket , namely adult cricket. The goal is that youth and adult players stay in the game longer, our youth develop a passion for a wonderful sport, progress up the teams as soon as they are ready and have fun !
A small committee of 3 could oversee the league, with a contact from each participating club feeding into the committee with relevant information. This could be monitored by the Cricket Leinster Development Comm or the OCC.
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Anyone that wishes can provide feedback and do so by using the Comments section or by e/mailing directly to cricketleinster@gmail.com. The feedback will be incorporated into a short report which will be published and which can form the basis for the discussions at the Conference.