ECB Guidelines for
JUNIOR PLAYERS IN ADULT (OPEN AGE) CRICKET

These guidelines cover the selection and participation of young players in adult (open age) cricket. They are designed to help clubs to decide when to select young players in open age cricket and how best to help their development when they play with open age groups. They apply to boys and girls equally. Age groups are based on the age of a player at midnight on 31st August in the year preceding the current season
For example:
Under 12 age group players and younger should NOT play in open age competitive cricket.
Under 13 age group players can play in open age group competitive cricket (i.e. players aged 12 and over) if considered by a qualified Level 2 coach or above that it is appropriate for their development.
Under 13 players need prior explicit written parental consent as this recognises  the need for parents or guardians to be aware of the significance of allowing their young child to participate in open competitive cricket rather than purely junior cricket.
Over 13 year old players are free to play open age cricket
GUIDANCE FOR CLUBS  AND LEAGUES
All clubs must recognise that they have a duty of care towards all young players who are representing the club. 
This duty of care also extends to Leagues that allow the participation of young players in adult teams in their League. 
The duty of care should be interpreted in two ways :
  • Not to place a young player in a position that involves an unreasonable risk to that young player, taking account of the circumstances of the match and the relative skills of the player.
  • Not to create a situation that places members of the opposing side in a position whereby they cannot play
    cricket as they would normally do against adult players.

1. Making the step up from junior to adult (open age cricket is a significant event in any player's cricket experience. Ensure that the player's safety, personal development needs and overall cricket experience are considered.

2. There is no definitive age at which they should be introduced to open age cricket but determine each case on an individual basis dependent on their ability and stage of cognitive and emotional maturity to take part at this level, taking into account the requirement that no Junior Cricketers younger than the age group of under 13  can play in open age group

3. ECB Fast Bowling Directives and FieldingRegulations should always be adhered to for junior players in open age cricket. All players who have not reached  their 18th birthday must wear a helmet with a faceguard when batting and either a helmet with faceguard or face protector when standing up to the stumps when keeking wicket. A young player acting as a runner must also wear a helmet even if the player they are running for is not doing so.

4. Any player in the Under 13 age group must have explicit written consent from a parent or guardian before participating in open age cricket. Clubs must ensure that their registration procedures ensure  that consent is obtained.

5. Provide an opportunity for players to show their talents in an appropriate way. Children who are just used as fielders  will not fully experience the game.

6. Be supportive at all times for all forms of effort even when children are not successful. Try and put them in situations where they will experience some success (however small) and ensure plenty of praise and encouragement.

7. Try and involve them in all aspects of the game wherever possible (i.e. socializing, team talks, practice, decision making etc.) so they feel part of the team

8. Children will often feel more comfortable and able to perform if they have a family member or friend playing in the side.

9. Remember, children's early experiences will remain with them always and will often determine whether they want to remain playing in the game or give up and do something else !

10. Clubs and Leagues can apply more strict restrictions on the participation of young players in adult (open age cricket at their discretion.
It is strongly recommended that a parent, guardian or other identified  responsible adult is present whenever a player in the Under 13 age group plays open age cricket.
This could include the captain or other identified adult player taking responsibility for the the young player.

Published March 2010