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ICS ACCOUNTING WESTMORLAND CRICKET LEAGUE RULES 2026

SECTION 1 

Constitution and Management 

1. The League shall be called "The ICS Accounting Westmorland Cricket League" (hereafter referred to as 'The League"). 

2. The League is a full member of the Northern Pyramid Cricket Competition (“NPCC) and has adopted its Constitution. Should a constitutional conflict arise between that of The League and the NPCC, the NPCC constitution shall prevail. The aims and objectives of the league shall be: 

  • To offer competitive opportunities in the name of cricket 
  • To promote the League within the local community in the name of cricket
  • To ensure a duty of care to all members of the League 
  • To provide all of its services in a way that is fair to everyone 
  • To ensure that all present and future members receive fair and equal treatment    

 

3. The Officials of the League shall be Chairman, Vice Chairman, Hon. Secretary, Hon.Treasurer*, Hon. Fixtures Secretary, Hon. Results Secretary, Hon. Registration & Eligibility Secretary, League Safeguarding Officer*, Cup Coordinator and Hon Umpires Appointments Secretary, all of whom shall retire annually at the AGM but will be eligible for re-election.  

* The League Safeguarding Officer and the Treasurer will work closely with Pyramid Officers who have final responsibility for these functions.

The Officials of the Junior Section of the League shall be the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Hon Secretary, Hon Results Secretary and Junior Representative to the Management Executive, all of whom shall retire annually at the Junior Section AGM but will be eligible for re-election. 

Each of the League Officials, and the Junior Section Administration may be paid an honorarium which shall be decided by the members clubs at the Senior Annual General Meeting.   

4. The Affairs of the Senior & Junior Leagues shall be controlled by the League Management Executive (LME) which shall meet at least four times in each year and shall consist of elected officials of the League, including the Junior Section together with nine elected representatives to be nominated from the clubs in membership of the League.  These representatives shall be elected for a one year period and will retire annually but will be eligible for re-election.  

i) A member of the LME will be appointed to represent the League at LCF Recreational Cricket Group and Cumbria Cricket meetings as needed. 

ii)  A member of the LME will be appointed as Communications/Social Media Officer        

iii) Elections will take place at the Annual General Meeting. Each Executive member shall be proposed by a member club, and such nomination shall be in the hands of the Hon. Secretary by 30 September in each year. No club may propose more than two of the nine elected representatives. 

iv) If for any reason an elected representative is unable to fulfil his/her commitment to the Management Executive, it shall have the power to co-opt a replacement, until the next AGM, at which time an election will take place. 

v) Five members. including Chairman or Secretary shall constitute a quorum. 

vi) The draft minutes of all Management Meetings shall be circulated to all members of the committee, Club Secretaries and Umpires’ Secretary before the following meeting. 

vii) The Management Executive (or a sub-committee of members where appropriate) shall deal with all matters concerning the League in accordance with these rules, precedent and policies confirmed or amended by member clubs at an AGM or EGM. Notice of Appeal against a decision of a sub-committee, or against the imposition of any fixed penalty specified within these rules, setting out the grounds for appeal, must be given in writing to the Secretary within seven days of the notification of the decision, or imposition, Once a decision is made and passed on to a club, any further disagreement from any party shall take the form of an Appeal. This must reach the relevant league secretary in writing within 7 days and must be accompanied by a deposit of £25. The Appeal will be referred to the PEB Pyramid Administrator who will manage the procedure set out in the Pyramid constitution. 

viii) In addition, the Management Executive shall deal with all matters not covered in these rules or any matters which arise that render these rules unworkable. Any such actions to be reported to, and approved by, the next AGM.   

ix) Whenever a Member of the Executive has a personal interest in a matter to be discussed, he or she must declare it, withdraw from that part of the meeting (unless asked to stay by the Chair of the meeting), withdraw during any vote and have no vote on the matter concerned. Such conflicts of interest must be recorded and minuted.  

x) The ruling of the League Management Executive shall be final with regard to matters arising from all competitions, except as provided for under rule 5.  

xi) Any appeals from clubs regarding the result of a match must be submitted within 14 days from midnight on the day the match was played. 

5. All disciplinary matters in any way connected with the League or the conduct of matches or Tournaments played under the auspices of the League shall be dealt with in accordance with the Pyramid  Disciplinary Procedure, which will follow the ECB’s General Conduct Regulations (available on the Pyramid website or by request from the Secretary) and which shall be deemed to be incorporated within and form part of these rules and which shall prevail over any of the League Rules which may overlap or be in conflict with the provisions of the Disciplinary Procedure.

6. As a member of the Pyramid which has overall responsibility for Safeguarding, the League adopts and practice “Safe Hands Policy”. It is a club’s responsibility to ensure that captains, club umpires and other officials designated by the ECB have a current DBS certificate. 

7. The Secretary shall convene the Annual General Meeting not later than the second Saturday in December each year. 

The Secretary shall convene an EGM at any time, within 28 days, at the request of the Management Executive or at the request of four clubs, in writing, stating the business to be discussed. 

The League Treasurer shall forward a copy of the League balance sheet to all clubs at least one week before the AGM. In 2025/6 this will operate as a delegated budget within the overall framework of the Pyramid financial structures. Likewise the Junior Section Secretary shall convene the Junior Section AGM not later than the last day of January each year. A  Junior Section EGM can be called at any time, within 28 days, at the request of the Management Executive, Junior Section Committee or at the request of four clubs, in writing stating the business to be discussed. 

Not less than 14 days notice shall be given to Member Clubs of any AGM or EGM. 

One third of the clubs in membership, plus seven League Officials, shall constitute a quorum at either an AGM or EGM. 

Any club not sending a representative to an Annual General Meeting or Extra- Ordinary General Meeting and captains/senior players for each team to the captains meeting shall be fined the sum of £25. 

8. The Chairman for all meetings shall be the Chairman of the League or in his/her absence such person as the meeting elects.  

i) Where the Management Executive deems that a proposed rule change does not have direct implications for all divisions, then only those teams who will be directly affected in the following season shall have a vote.  These rule changes shall be carried on a simple majority basis of votes cast by the teams.  In the event of a tie then the Management Executive representative shall have the casting vote.

ii) At General meetings a nominated LME Representative with a mandate from the Executive, the ECBACO Representative and each member club shall be entitled to one vote. The Chairman of the meeting shall have a casting vote.

SECTION 2 Membership of the League

9 - Membership of the NPCC is available to clubs which are themselves properly constituted, have an active ‘open door’ policy to membership and which are self-evidently run for and on behalf of all their members. and the ground standards of the Pyramid, appropriate to the level of cricket that the club will be playing. The WCL sits within the Pyramid structure with eligible teams winning the WCL Division 1 Championship having the option of promotion to the Palace Shield Championship.  Clubs with teams in the WCL are members of the Westmorland Cricket League and shall have a full vote at Annual General and Extraordinary Meetings of the Westmorland League.

i) New applications.

Applications for membership of the NPCC are welcomed from clubs outside the NPCC which are properly constituted and whose ground(s) and facilities meet the required standards (see website).  The WCL Executive will recommend acceptance of applications from clubs that meet the geographical requirements previously agreed at a WCL AGM

The Pyramid Executive Board (PEB) will triage all applications and make recommendations as to where the respective team(s) from the applicant club will best fit the NPCC structure. 

Member clubs of the NPCC (and for the avoidance of doubt this includes those with a 1st XI in an associate league) will vote on accepting the applicant club and its placement in the appropriate league. This will be based on a simple democratic majority following a General Meeting. Each individual league will then decide on their placement within their divisional structure, based on recommendations from the NPCC.

Where a club is, for disciplinary reasons or failure to fulfil fixtures, obliged to re-apply for membership, this will be decided by a simple democratic vote of member clubs.

Once a completed application form has been received, the Grounds & Facilities Sub-Committee will enquire whether the main ground (and where relevant, second ground) of the applicant club meets the relevant standards.

Following a successful Grounds & Facilities audit, new applications will then be put to a vote of existing member clubs, provided that:

The applicant club does not have any outstanding debt to its current league.

The applicant club has fulfilled all its existing league obligations regarding potential resignation of membership.

The applicant club has, where applicable, followed the relevant guidelines of its County Cricket Board/Foundation regarding moving from one league to another.

ii) Resignation of membership.

A member club of the NPCC must inform the PEB prior to entering into any dialogue with another league.

Any club wishing to resign their membership of the NPCC must submit written notice of the resignation to the PEB before 30th June. A resignation so tendered will generally be accepted unless the member club concerned has any outstanding debt to the NPCC (or constituent League)

iii) Any member club of a constituent league is automatically a member of the NPCC. In accepting membership of the NPCC, clubs agree on behalf of their officers and members, to comply with the Code of Conduct (see Appendix 1 of the Pyramid Constitution).

iv) All clubs must meet all relevant requirements of the ECB which will vary from time to time. Should a conflict arise between this constitution and a relevant ECB requirement, the ECB requirements shall prevail.

v) Persistent failure by a club to comply with the rules of the NPCC may render it liable to the initiation of disciplinary procedures (as set out at Section 19 of the Pyramid Constitution).

This may result in suspension from the NPCC for a team and/or club, during which the team or club will be unable to compete in the NPCC and will forfeit any league points during the period of suspension. Continued suspension may result in the team or club being expelled from the NPCC.

vi)All member clubs of the NPCC shall be affiliated to a County Cricket Board/Foundation. The County Cricket Board/Foundation sets an affiliation fee annually and may collect this fee via the league. 

vii) The divisional status of all teams shall be subject to approval of clubs' ground and facilities by the Management Executive working alongside the Pyramid Grounds and Facilities Sub-committee.  

viii) Clubs must keep their “About Us” page on Play Cricket updated, including directions to the ground(s) and contact details for officers of the club.

ix) In the event of a club having access to more than one ground, (for example where first and second teams play on different grounds), the fixtures will be prepared and published on information provided to the Fixtures Secretary by the relevant club as to which team will play on which ground. Any changes to venue must be notified to the Fixtures secretary at least seven days before the scheduled fixture, who may in exceptional circumstances dispense with the full notice requirement.  

x) If any team forfeits two or more games in any one season, in addition to any other penalties, the Management Executive may require the club to submit a bond in the form of a payment to the League by 31st March preceding the season, which the club would forfeit in the event of it failing to fulfil any fixtures whilst that bond is in place.

xi) Member clubs must have public liability insurance and (where relevant) employee liability insurance. Member clubs are required to forward a copy of their current liability insurance to the appropriate League Secretary by 15th April annually.

SECTION 3 Competitions 

10. The following competitions, to be played for annually, shall be organised by the League. 

  • The League Championship.  
  • Divisional cup competitions for each of the Divisions of the League. 
  • Junior League Championship and Junior Cup competitions. 
  • Any special competition of which the rules will be published separately 

 

i) There shall be promotion and relegation throughout all Saturday divisions, but no club shall be permitted to have two teams in the same division except for the bottom Saturday division. This rule does not apply for the Sunday Division from which teams can ask to transfer to play on Saturdays in the following season irrespective of where they finished in the previous season

ii)  At the end of each season the top two teams in all Divisions except Division 1 may be promoted to play in the immediately higher division in the following season, with the exception of 'A' teams which have senior sides either already in the higher division or due to be relegated to that same higher division 

iii) The arrangements for promotion and relegation will be set out before the start of each season. Teams to be relegated in order of precedence.

  • 'A' teams making way for their senior sides relegated from the immediately higher division 
  • The bottom team, unless it is a senior team with an 'A' team due for promotion from the immediately lower division, 
  • The next to bottom team, unless it is a senior team with an 'A' team due for promotion from the immediately lower division

iv) No club may have two teams in the same division, unless it is the bottom Saturday division where clubs have two or more Saturday teams, or have two teams in the Sunday division.

v) In the event that two or more teams finish with equal points, it shall be resolved as follows:  

Promotion/Division Winners/Runners up. 

The team with the most wins shall be promoted, if this is tied then the team with the highest season long run rate shall be promoted. The divisional championship shall be decided under the same criteria. 

Relegation  

The team with the least wins shall be relegated, if this is tied, the team with the lowest season long run rate shall be relegated.

vi) The format and playing conditions for each of the Senior cup competitions will be decided by the Management Executive, taking into account the expressed views of member clubs. Details of the playing conditions will be published in the league handbook and on the website. Entry fees for all competitions to be determined at the Annual General Meeting. Failure to pay such fees by 31st May in each year shall result in all points gained in League Championship games being forfeited from that date until payment is received. Clubs may also be excluded from cup competitions for that year. 

vii) Any disagreements between clubs as to the date on which a cup match will be played must be referred to the Cup Coordinator 

SECTION 4 Qualification and Eligibility of Players 

Advisory notes for section 4

Where the Westmorland Rules refer to under 18 or (16) (13) (11) (9), this shall be taken as per league rule 19 in the Junior Section of the rules. 

Throughout section 4, where there is any reference to qualification of players for 2nd teams, this shall also apply in the same manner to 3rd & 4th teams.

11. i) Each club shall be responsible for the registration of its players on Play Cricket prior to the first Saturday of the season.  No player may be registered with more than one club in the Westmorland League, and a player will not be formally registered until they have played their first game for a club.  Captains must advise their opposition prior to the match if they are playing a player who needs to be registered and note this in the match comments on play-cricket  All on the day player registrations must be completed on Play Cricket within 5 days from the end of the match, failure to complete the registration will deem the player ineligible (see penalties for ineligible players). If there is a problem, then the Chairman of Eligibility must be informed within the 5 days (e.g. where it is a young player and parental approval on the system is required).

ii) Westmorland League players may apply to the Eligibility Committee for dual registration, seeking permission to play for a 2nd club in another League. Players granted dual registration can only play for one club per week, with week being deemed to start on Saturday (this includes Bank Holidays and midweek matches). Likewise a player from another League may apply to the WCL for dual registration subject to the approval of both Leagues, the club in the other league and the same playing conditions. No permission will be granted after 31st July. Any player breaking dual registration rules will be treated as an illegible player. 

iii) Only players who have been resident in the United Kingdom since the 1st June prior to the beginning of the season shall be eligible to play in the Westmorland League unless the prior consent of the Management Executive has been obtained.  Application for consent may be made at any time but, no consent will be granted after the third Saturday in August.  

This subsection shall not apply to expatriates of the United Kingdom and British Citizen passport holders. Players who are not normally resident in the UK and who do not hold a UK passport must meet the ECB criteria to qualify as “an overseas amateur”.  Teams shall be limited to one overseas amateur during a season.   

iv)No player shall play for more than one Club in any Weekend Cricket League in the same season, unless by consent of the Management Executive. ( see pool player rules )

v) Only amateur players are eligible to take part in any senior League or Cup Competition.  

vi) The League Management Executive requires all clubs to follow any directive issued by the ECB for young players, including any ECB Guidelines regarding young players in open age cricket; however in no circumstances shall a person under the age of 12 on 1st September the preceding year take part in any senior competition unless they are already in a County Representative squad and have prior approval of a Management Sub Committee which will include an ECB Level 2 coach  (co-opted if needed) who has assessed the player.  

vii) Any disputes regarding eligibility and qualification shall be resolved by the Management Executive whose decision shall be final. Any club found guilty of fielding an under aged player will be fined £25 for a first offence.   

viii) All transfer requests to a WCL club must be made by completing a transfer request, both clubs must agree in writing via email and the email must be received by the Chairman of the Eligibility Committee, 48 hours before they play. The final date for transfers is midnight on 31st July. Players re-locating from outside the geographical area covered by the League may apply for a transfer after this deadline but, no consent will be granted after the third Saturday in August.  All players who have played for a different Club (unless playing under pool player arrangements) are subject to transfer and, all transfers are subject to the approval of the Management Executive.

ix) A player who has been suspended or fined by any other recognised cricket league shall not be allowed to play in any matches under the jurisdiction of the Westmorland League until the end of such suspension or until such fine has been paid. 

12 i) Teams must normally field players that are recognised players in that particular team and if clubs have games spread over a weekend no player should play for more than one team and the player only drop down 1 team, without permission from the Eligibility Committee.

ii) The following conditions form the basis of Player Eligibility in Divisions 1 to 5, for clubs wanting players to play 2 league games in a weekend or players dropping down due to other reasons.

  • Any player who is intending to play two league games over any given weekend (double up) requires permission unless they are Juniors at U18 level.
  • Any player with 50% of their league games played at the higher team(s), requires permission to drop down over any given weekend, unless both teams are playing on the same day.
  • Any player who has had a performance (50 runs or 4 wickets) at the higher level requires permission to drop down over any given weekend.

iii) If any of these conditions above exist then clubs MUST seek prior approval of the eligibility committee who will determine if restrictions are required. Clubs can seek permission by email to the Chairman of the Eligibility Committee for pre-approval.

  • If restrictions are placed, and a player is granted permission to play both days, the captain is responsible for communicating the outcome to the opposing captain prior to the start of the game.

iv) The following conditions form the basis of Player Eligibility in the Sunday Divisions 5/6. 

  • All players under the age of 18 on 31st August of the previous season, who have played 50% of their games in the WCL are eligible to play twice in any weekend. (unless those games are in Division 1, when permission must be sort)
  • Up to 2 players from the team above who haven’t had a performance at the higher level prior to the request, can double up and play without permission and restrictions.
  • Any other player can play in the development league without permission; however they MUST bat 11, can’t bowl or keep wicket (if a recognised wicket keeper).

v) As well as the conditions stated above, the following conditions are added for teams playing in the Development Division 7. 

  • All players under the age of 18 who have played 50% of their games in Division 3 to 5 in the WCL are eligible to play twice in any weekend. 
  • Players under the age of 18 who play their regular cricket in Divisions 1 and 2 or above can play but cannot perform their regular role (eg If they are a regular bowler then they can’t bowl, similarly, if they are regularly batting in the top 6, then they bat 11)
  • Each team should average a minimum of 6 players who are either U18 or female throughout the season.

vi) If there is any doubt regarding any of the above then contact should be made with the Chairman of the eligibility committee, who will give clarity. (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)

vii) For the purpose of all eligibility decisions, the term “performance” is a score of 50 or more, in a single innings or the taking of 4 wickets in a game. Within the previous 12 months.

viii) Any club or player who is deemed to have not followed the above process or adhered to the restrictions set in Section 12, will be deemed Ineligible. In these instances, result reversal, with game bans for the player and captain concerned are likely outcomes and will be determined by The Management Executive on a case by case basis.

ix) Members of clubs who are away from home for some part of the season, and play elsewhere at any standard during this time, will be permitted to play for their clubs on their return (e.g. University undergraduates). Players who reside permanently elsewhere and play their cricket elsewhere will be permitted to play for a Westmorland League club providing they play their cricket in a similar or lower standard league, and their normal league allows dual registration. Permission must be sort in advance from the eligibility committee.
NOTE: In ANY dispute the burden of proof will rest with the club.

x) The decision of the Eligibility Committee shall be final. 

13) Eligibility in Cup Competitions

i) A player may play for only one club in any WCL Cup Competition in any one season.  If a player has played in any other League they may play in a Westmorland League Cup competition providing they have been transferred under rule 11 and meet the requirement of having played three games for their new club as well as meeting the qualification rules for the individual Cup which include that a player cannot play for two teams in the same competition, and that a player must have played 50% of their games or their last 3 league games in that team (Midweek Leagues are exempt) 

ii) Teams must field players that are recognised players in that particular team. A player may play in a 2nd/3rd/4th team cup competition, provided that:  

  • A minimum of 50% of their League games (Westmorland League) have been in that team during the current season.  
  • The player’s last three consecutive league games have been in that team.

iii) For cup matches, Clubs may apply to the LME not later than 72 hours prior to the start of the match if they feel that GENUINE 2nd/3rd/4th XI players should be selected to play who do not meet the criteria under the first two points above.

iv) In the event of a Club having more than one 1st /2nd/3rd or 4th team cup match in the WCL on the same day at the same time, players will be eligible to play in any team but must request permission from the Eligibility Committee.

v) For Semi Finals and Finals players must meet the above criteria and also have played for that team this season.

vi) Pool players may not play for any other team but their registered club in a Cup competition, Dual registered player can only play for one club in any season. 

vii) All applications should be made by email to the Chairman of the Eligibility Committee and the decision will be made by the Eligibility Committee.
For the purpose of the whole of rule 13, "played" shall be defined as a match in which any play takes place in the current season. 

NOTE: In ANY dispute the burden of proof will rest with the club and due to the relaxation of these rules any abuse will be dealt with severely.

viii) Any team playing an ineligible player in a cup match will be disqualified from the next round of that competition if a knockout competition and receive the penalty specified in the individual cup in the case of round robin matches. If any team plays an ineligible player in a cup final, that team may be disqualified from taking part in the equivalent competition in the following season. A Management Sub-Committee will have the discretion to impose penalties over and above any disqualification if it thinks appropriate. 

14 - Pool Player system 

Aims and Objectives 

The Ultimate aim of the Pool Player process is to reduce the number of games forfeited and to encourage participation of more players. The process is in place to enable clubs struggling to fulfil fixtures to have access to approved players from other clubs who potentially aren’t playing that weekend.  It also allows players who aren’t getting regular cricket at their parent club to help other clubs in need of players.  

Rules and process for the 2026 season. 

i. For a player to be placed onto the pool list. 

  • They must be registered with their parent club or the WCL.
  • The Individual requests they are placed on the pool. Via the Eligibility Chairman
  • All details to be provided (name, DOB, contact number)
  • Players can be registered onto the pool up to 72 hours prior to the game being played.
  • Only clubs with a safeguarding Officer who is up to date with all mandatory training, are permitted to use pool players under the age of 18.
  • Any Player wanting to be placed on the pool must agree to the sharing of their data if requested.

 

ii. The club intending to use a pool player. 

 

  • Can only use players on the official pool list.
  • Must request permission from the league in line with Eligibility rules. Unless they are junior players, whereby no contact with the eligibility committee is required.
  • Must register the player, prior to the game (in the normal way, with prefix PP before the name) 

 

iii. Players who play on the pool 

  • In line with the dual registration process.  A player can only play for one club per weekend. (ie can’t play for parent club and another, Saturday then Sunday) 
  • Pool Players can only play for the same club on 4 occasions in any season.  
  • Players cannot pool for a club in their own division, except for Division 4, 6 and development division 7 
  • If a player is under the age of 18 then rules in section 3 do not apply. 

 iv. Restrictions placed on Pool Players

  • If a pool player is playing below their normal level (based on last three league 

games or 50% of the current season) then restrictions as determined by the Eligibility Committee will be placed

  • If a pool player is playing above their normal level then no restrictions will be placed.
  • For players classed as juniors then restrictions will not apply. Unless the last three games or 50% of the current seasons games are played at WCL Division 1 or higher. Then restrictions will be placed.

Failure to follow any element of the process shall deem the player as ineligible and the club will be faced with possible result reversal and a £25 fine.

All the above should help to ensure the integrity of our league and also maintain the ability for players to help other clubs fulfil games.

SECTION 5 Playing Conditions

15) All games shall be played under MCC Code of Laws, with certain exceptions as written below. 

i) Dress for all matches shall be whites, or in cup matches a team may wear coloured kit.  No player may bowl who is not wearing white trousers and a white shirt or sweater, or where a team has chosen to play in coloured kit, his team’s recognised kit. 

ii) A regulation quartered ball shall be provided by the fielding side. The balls and substitute quartered balls of good quality will be handed to the umpires for approval before the start of the match. 

ALL games in Divisions 1, 2 & 3 are to use a ball purchased through the League.   

iii) If due to ground condition or weather, the home club is of the opinion that their ground is unfit for play, they shall be afforded the opportunity of contacting the visiting club, in an effort to agree to a cancellation or postponement of the fixture but no earlier than 10.30 am on the day of play. However when no such agreement can be reached, either club can ask a panel umpire (not directly associated with either club) to inspect and make a decision for a fee of £10. The latest time for such an inspection is 1.5 hours before the scheduled start of play. If an umpire cannot be found, the visiting club shall travel and the normal rules appertaining to inspection and fitness of grounds shall apply, If the visiting club exercises their right to travel and no play takes place,  the visiting club shall be responsible for payment of 100% of the umpires expenses, (Divisions 1 & 2), plus 50% of teas in all divisions. 

iv) Covers must be used at any point in the match when the umpires request them.  

v) Any club failing to fulfil a fixture for any reason other than on account of weather shall be fined £50 and forfeit 12 points to the opposing club as well as having 12 points deducted (league matches only); or the tie in respect of knock out matches. Subject to appeal to the PEB, who shall have the authority to require the game to be replayed or for the points to be shared in exceptional circumstances.

vi) Any away team unable to fulfil a fixture for any reason other than on account of weather; shall inform the home team and Results Secretary by 10.30am.  Failure to do so will result in an additional fine of £50 imposed and collected by the League and forwarded to the home team to compensate for costs incurred. 

vii) In the event that any club with two teams in the League find themselves in a situation where they are able to provide only sufficient players for one/two teams, then such team/s must fulfil the fixture for the Club's senior team/teams and that team/s must contain 11 players.  If a senior team play without 11 players, the club must demonstrate that unforeseen circumstances intervened on the day otherwise a LME Sub Committee will apply the following to the team that is deemed to have gained an advantage. They shall be fined £10, forfeit all points available from the match to the opposing club  and be deducted 12 points (League games only). 

viii) In all matches a minimum number of seven players is required to constitute a team; failure to do so will invoke rule 12 G (i), (ii) & (iii). 

16. The following rules shall apply to games in the League Championship competition: 

NOTE: WHERE 2 SETS OF FIGURES ARE SHOWN, THE LOWER FIGURE/S WILL APPLY TO DIVISION 3 and below

i) All League games in Divisions 1, 2 and 3 shall be played on Saturdays. The exceptions shall be Bank Holidays, (only when the Fixtures Secretary deems it necessary) and for 3rd or 4th teams, where a club has only one ground and therefore these teams need to play their home games on a Sunday. 

ii) On Saturdays games shall commence at 1.00pm, with a thirty minute interval between innings for tea. Clubs in Divisions 1 and 2 are able to request in writing to the League Secretary by 28th February that all their fixtures or one or more specific fixtures start at 1.30 or 2pm. 

Clubs in Divisions 3 and 4 are able to request in writing to the League Secretary by 28th February that all their fixtures or one or more specific fixtures start at 1.30 or 2pm. All requests will be granted. Games in September will start at 12.30pm in Divisions 1 and 2, 1pm in other Divisions

Notwithstanding the notification by 28th February, at any time during the season if mutually agreed between clubs and umpires, a start may be made up to one hour earlier or later than the scheduled start time if mutually agreed between clubs and umpires at least 24 hours before play would normally have started. 

iii) On Sundays games shall commence at 1.00pm, with a thirty minute interval between innings for tea. Clubs are able to request in writing to the League Secretary by 28th February that all their fixtures or one or more specific fixtures start at 1.30 or 2pm. All requests will be granted. A start may be made up to two hours earlier than the scheduled start time if mutually agreed between clubs and umpires at least 24 hours before play would normally have started. Clubs must provide hot beverages between innings however the provision of food shall be voted on by clubs at every AGM and shall be decided by a majority for the following season.

iv) In order to effect prompt starts, the toss shall take place not less than 15 minutes before the agreed start of play and all practice shall cease ten minutes before the agreed start of play. Any team arriving late shall forfeit the right to practice. 

v) If commencement of any game is delayed for more than the 15 minutes after the appointed time then the offending team shall forfeit the right to toss for choice of innings.

 vi) Game Format 

Games shall be 45 overs a side, (40 overs in Division 3 & below), each of 6 balls duration, with each side being limited to a maximum of 45 overs (40 overs in Division 3 & below).  Where a team is dismissed in fewer than their allotted overs, those overs DO NOT carry over into the second innings of the match.

In the first innings, a team may not declare their innings closed until a minimum of 75% (rounded up to the next complete over) of their allotted overs have been bowled i.e. in a 45 over innings a team may not declare until 34 overs have been bowled. 

In all divisions no player may bowl more than 25% of the overs scheduled to be bowled at the start of the innings (the figure to be rounded UP to the nearest full over. Therefore in games where there has been no reduction in overs because of weather the maximum number of overs a bowler can deliver is 12 in Divisions 1 and 2, and 10 in Divisions 3 and below.

Where the number of overs are reduced at the start of or during the game so are the maximum number of overs that each bowler may bowl. 

vii) Wides. 

In all League matches apart from the Sunday Development division, any offside or leg side delivery which in the opinion of the Umpire does not give the batsman a reasonable opportunity to score, shall be called a “wide”. Two lines shall be marked at each end of the pitch running parallel to the return crease, 17 inches from the return crease. (This is to assist umpires when judging wide deliveries on the Offside of the wicket). Any ball passing on the outside of the 17 inch line on either side of the stumps should be called wide unless the umpire determines that by his/her movement before the ball was delivered that the striker has brought the ball sufficiently within reach for him/her to be able to hit it with the bat by means of a normal cricket stroke.  This is known as the line moving with the batter.

viii) Interruptions for reasons of ground, weather or light

Matches delayed at the start 

If the umpires determine that play cannot start on time because of ground, weather or light issues then one over will be lost from each innings for every seven and a half minutes that the game has been delayed from the start time. The shortest game which can be played is a 20 over a side game, which, if an early tea has been taken, must start within 3 and a half hours of the appointed start time in Divisions 1 and 2.  

 i.e. In a game where play was due to start at 1pm, in Divisions 1 and 2, the latest time that a game can start is 4.30 pm (if tea has been taken).  NOTE: there is NO 15-minute waiting time at the start of a match, and overs will be lost from when play was due to commence. In Division 3 and below, the latest time a game can start is 3 hours after the appointed time. 

Matches interrupted after the start

Where matches are interrupted because of ground, weather or light issues in the first innings then one over will be lost from each innings for every seven and a half minutes that the game is interrupted.

In the second innings where play is interrupted because of ground, weather or light issues, overs are lost as shown below:

3.75 minutes = 1 over

7.5 minutes = 2 overs

15 minutes = 4 overs

30 minutes = 8 overs

60 minutes = 16 overs

Umpires are responsible for keeping a record of time lost.  They must inform captains of the revised number of overs before the resumption of play after any interruption. Time lost is NOT cumulative i.e. if in the first innings play is interrupted for rain then no time is lost (less than 7.5 minutes) and the 5 minutes is NOT carried forward in the event of a further interruption.

If matches are delayed for any other reason, e.g. player injury, then that time is made up, and the overs are not reduced. 

ix) A game shall be completed as a fixture when each side has completed a single innings, or a definite result has been reached. 

x) In all matches, it is solely for the umpires together to decide in accordance with MCC Law 2.7 whether either conditions of ground, weather or light or exceptional circumstances mean that it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place.  Conditions shall not be regarded as either dangerous or unreasonable merely because they are not ideal.  The fact that the grass and ball are wet does not warrant the ground conditions being regarded as dangerous or unreasonable.  Conditions shall be regarded as dangerous if there is actual and foreseeable risk to the safety of any player or umpire.

Conditions shall be regarded as unreasonable if, although posing no risk to safety, it would not be sensible for play to proceed.

If the umpires consider the ground is so wet or slippery as to deprive the bowler of a reasonable foothold, the fielders of the power of free movement, or the batter of the ability to play their strokes or to run between the wickets, then these conditions shall be regarded as so bad that it would be dangerous and unreasonable for play to take place.

In games where there are no appointed umpires the responsibility defaults to the two captains.  If there is disagreement between the captains, then the game should not proceed if one captain believes that the risk of injury is actual and foreseeable.  Both captains in such cases are required to write to the League Secretary expressing why they believed it was fit/unfit and providing evidence in the form of photographs or videos.  This evidence will be reviewed by the LME which if deems that conditions were fit has the power to award the game and 15 points to the team who wanted to play.  

xi) In Divisions 1 & 2 the batting side will be awarded 5 penalty runs for each over that is not started by the bowling side in 2 hours 50 minutes. This will include one drinks break. If overs are reduced due to weather in either innings, the time allowed shall be reduced by 3 mins 45 secs per over. Umpires MUST keep each other and the captains informed of their progress at 1 and 2 hours and inform of any alterations to times and shall make allowances for any unforeseen circumstances, and also warn and subsequently award penalty runs against the batting side if they are deemed to be wasting time as per MCC laws. Where a team takes more than 2 hours 50 minutes plus any allowances made then the run penalties take effect immediately.  The umpires should signal the award of one or multiple set of 5 penalty runs at the moment the time is exceeded i.e. not wait for the end of the over.

At the call of time for the 1st innings both teams will be informed of the start of time of the 2nd innings by the umpires.

xii) If tea has been taken earlier during a break owing to adverse weather or injury to a player, the interval between the innings shall be reduced to 10 minutes. During a break in play due to adverse weather, tea may be taken early in an attempt to save playing time. The 20 minutes saved shall be used in calculating the remaining overs. The umpires shall consider the wishes of both captains but shall be the final judges of when the tea interval should be taken. 

xiii) The target time for the finish of a game starting at 1pm shall be 7.15pm and this time should be used to calculate the remaining overs in the second innings if there is a delay at its start or after a break in play. Overs remaining are calculated as below.

3.75 minutes = 1 over

7.5 minutes = 2 overs

15 minutes = 4 overs

30 minutes = 8 overs

60 minutes = 16 overs

Note this is only a target and is NOT a cut off time.  It is used because if the first innings finishes earlier than expected (3.50 pm for a 1pm start in Divisions 1 and 2) then time is only taken out of the game when time is lost. The second innings of a game in Divisions 1 

and 2 should start no later than 4.25pm.

17 Method of Scoring Points

  • Win: 9 points plus any bowling points
  • Loss: 0 points plus any batting or bowling points
  • Tie: 5 points each plus bowling points
  • Incomplete Game: 4 points each plus batting and bowling points (if the team batting first has received at least 20 overs or completed its innings)
  • Batting Points (First Innings): 
    • 1 point for scoring two runs per over
    • 2 points for scoring three runs per over
    • 3 points for scoring four runs per over
  • Batting Points (Second Innings): 
    • 1 point for scoring 70% of the total of the side batting first
    • 2 points for scoring 80% of the total
    • 3 points for scoring 90% of the total
  • Bowling Points: 
    • 1 point for 5 wickets
    • 2 points for 7 wickets
    • 3 points for bowling the opposition out (regardless of number of batsmen available)

i)  Target Score Adjustment

Use of Duckworth Lewis (Standard) System. Where weather intervenes after play has commenced in either the 1st or 2nd innings, the Standard Version of Duckworth Lewis (DL) on the Play Cricket Scorer app with a G50 value of 200 will be used to calculate revised scores.

  • The home team will be responsible for ensuring that the Play Cricket APP is available for the purpose of calculating DL revised scores. The home team will also be responsible, at the end of each over, for displaying the par score at the end of the forthcoming over and for adjusting this if a wicket should fall.
  • Calculations of revised scores will be the responsibility of Captains and Umpires.

ii) Where a game ends abruptly in the second innings, at least 20 overs having been completed, DL will provide a “par score” after every ball bowled in the second innings. This will be a whole number and is intended to reflect where a team should be, given the number of overs used and number of wickets lost. The actual score and the par score at that point are compared to determine the result.

iii) Batting Bonus Points will be calculated based on “revised scores” as calculated by DLS

iv) It should be noted, that unless 20 overs in the 2nd innings have been completed or are available to the side batting second, then the game will be abandoned as an uncompleted match, unless a team opts to chase the target or bowl out the opposition in less than 20 overs. If the available overs is less than 20 the side batting second and electing to chase the 20 over target as calculated by the DLS method in fewer than 20 overs will lose the match if it is bowled out for less than the said target score or otherwise fails to achieve that score, but will be entitled to bonus points. 

The side bowling second electing to attempt to bowl out their opponents if fewer than 20 overs are available will lose the match if their opponents achieve the said target score or if it fails to bowl out their opponents but will be entitled to bonus points.

In either of the above circumstances, should there be a further suspension of play during this stage of the game it will end as an uncompleted game and 4 points will be awarded to each team along with any bonus points earned.

v) If a DLS target is reached in less than 20 overs there is no requirement to continue to play till 20 overs are bowled.

vi) A game shall be completed as a fixture when each side has completed a single innings or a definite result has been reached. 

vii) In all matches, it is solely for the umpires together to decide in accordance with MCC Law 2.7 whether either conditions of ground, weather or light or exceptional circumstances mean that it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place.  Conditions shall not be regarded as either dangerous or unreasonable merely because they are not ideal.  The fact that the grass and ball are wet does not warrant the ground conditions being regarded as dangerous or unreasonable.  

viii) At the call of time for the 1st innings both teams will be informed of the start of time of the 2nd innings by the umpires. 

ix) In Divisions 1 and 2, two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 30 yards. The semi-circles shall be linked by two parallel straight lines drawn on the field. The fielding restriction areas should be marked by continuous painted white lines or ‘dots’ at 5 yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring 7 inches (18 cm) in diameter. At the instant of delivery no more than five fielders shall be permitted outside this fielding restriction area. If this rule is broken, then either umpire should immediately call no ball. This should be treated the same as other no balls as set out in Law 21. 

 18) The following rules shall apply to games played in all Cup competitions

i) The Management Executive shall be responsible for all arrangements regarding cup competitions including the setting of fixed dates and play by dates.   

ii) Rules specific to each cup shall be published in the handbook and on the website

iii) Any disagreements between clubs as to the date on which a cup match will be played must be referred to the Cup Coordinator.  

iv) Unless specified in an individual cup rule, any match not completed on the original agreed date for any reason shall be re-arranged and replayed on the first available date, which MUST be prior to the date of the next round. If agreement cannot be reached the fixture must be referred to the Fixtures Secretary immediately. 

v) Any club in the League unable to fulfil a fixture for its more senior team WCL cup competition shall automatically forfeit all other cup competitions and be fined £50. Where this is an away game, the payment shall be passed on to the opposition to provide partial compensation for loss of the game.  In group games the points shall be awarded to the other team together with a net run rate for the game of +5. The forfeiting team shall have -5 net run rate for the game.

vi) The League will pay both umpires for all finals and semi-finals   

SECTION 6 – JUNIOR LEAGUE COMPETITIONS - RULES 19 to 26 Can be found at the back of the Handbook in the Junior Section or on the WCL Play-Cricket website

19 - The following rules shall apply to games played in the Junior League

A player should be under the age of (16) (13) (11) (9) at midnight on 31 August of the previous year, however, in all open age Junior Cricket, the following exceptions will apply,

Girls who are under 11 on 31st August of the previous year can play in Under 9 cricket.

Girls who are under 13 on 31st August of the previous year can play in Under 11 cricket.

Girls who are under 14 on 31st August of the previous year can play in Under 13 cricket.

Girls who are under 17 on 31st August of the previous year can play in Under 16 cricket.

In any Ladies and Girls only Divisions, these exceptions will not apply.

Any player who has played Northern League Division 1 in the current season may only play in the Junior League Championship Final and/or the Junior Knock-Out Cup Final, if they have played in at least 50% of their team’s Junior League games in which play has taken place during the current season.

 

20 (a) League matches will start at 6.30pm on the day stated in the annual fixture list or 6.00pm for all games played in April. 

b) The League and Knock-out finals shall be played on a neutral ground. In the event that a neutral ground cannot be secured and mutual agreement is not reached by the competing clubs, then such competing clubs shall toss a coin to decide upon whose ground the final shall be played.

c) Each team MUST provide an umpire (not a junior) and a scorer. The ECB recommend that all Umpires should be DBS Approved.

 

21 (a) Normal League matches will consist of 20 six ball overs per innings with a limitation of four overs per bowler. Under 16 and 13 Cup matches will be 100 balls, bowlers limited to 20 balls.

The League Championship Finals may consist of up to 30 six ball overs per innings with a limitation of six overs per bowler, or 20% of the agreed number of overs. The decision will be made by the Junior Committee or appointed League Umpires.

 

(b) At U-16 level, a batter shall retire when their score reaches or passes 30, and cannot return to the crease when all other wickets have fallen. In 30 over League Championship Finals the score at retirement is 35, but batters may return to the crease, if necessary, when all other wickets have fallen, batters returning in order of retirement.

 

(c) At U-13 level, a batters shall retire when their score reaches or passes 25, and cannot return to the crease when all other wickets have fallen. In a 30 over League Championship Finals the score at retirement is 30, but batters may return to the crease, if necessary, when all other wickets have fallen, batters returning in order of retirement.

 

(d) In Under 13 games Wides and No-Balls will count as two runs, plus the batting side will be awarded any extra runs they score from the wide or no-ball, but the extra ball will not be awarded to the batting side, except in the last over of each innings.

 

(e) In Under 16 and 13 junior matches, if the last pair is at the crease, no retirements will occur, the game will continue until either

(1) The last wicket has fallen,

(2) The allocated overs have been bowled,

or (3) The side batting second has reached their target.

(f) IN ALL HARD BALL MATCHES, NO FIELDER, except the wicket-keeper, SHALL BE ALLOWED TO FIELD CLOSER THAN 11 YARDS, measured from the middle stump at the batter's end, except behind the wicket on the off-side. Also IN ALL MATCHES HELMETS MUST BE WORN BY ALL BATTERS AND ALSO BY THE WICKET-KEEPER when standing up to the wicket.

(g) The lengths of pitches must be 15 yards for U9 with a 30m boundary, 17 yards for U11 “Soft Ball” with a 35m boundary, 17 yards for U11 “Hard Ball” with a 40m boundary, 19 yards for U13 with a 50m boundary, and 22 yards for U16, and the surfaces must be prepared to a satisfactory standard with safety in mind. The smaller hard ball of 4 ¾ ounces must be used in all U-13’s and U-11 Hard Ball League and Cup matches. 

In U11’s Soft Ball, the junior size “Incrediball” must be used.

In U9’s the “Kwik-Cricket” ball or the “All-Stars” ball must be used.

(h) In Under 9’s teams will be of 6 players.

In Under 11’s teams will be of 8 players.

In Under 13’s and Under 16’s will be of 8 players, however Clubs may contact their Opponents, with ample notice, to mutually agree to play 9, 10 or 11 aside.

In all games there will be NO rolling on and off of players (i.e. only the above number of players must be used to bat and ball in any one game) 

22 - If the weather delays the start of a match the umpires may reduce the length of each innings, by agreement prior to the start of the match, but no match for League points shall consist of less than 12 overs per innings.  In a game less than 20 overs per innings the limitation on the number of overs per bowler shall remain the same as in matches of full length. If a match is curtailed for any reason it shall be regarded as "abandoned" even if the team batting second have completed more than 12 overs.

 

23 (a) Points shall be awarded as follows:

(i) Four points for a win.

(ii) Two points for a tie.

(iii) Two points for a match which is abandoned or un-played due to rain

(b) In the event of scores being equal in a league match after 20 overs (or after the agreed number of overs) the result will be a tie irrespective of the number of wickets that have fallen.

(c) In the event of scores being equal in a Cup match, the team with the fewer wickets down will be declared the winner. If scores and wickets are equal the winner will then be decided by the score after 95 balls or the 19th or last over bowled, if scores are still equal then scores after 90 balls or the 18th over will be used to determine the winners etc, etc 

(d) In under 16 (13) (11) (9) league cricket. All matches are to be played in the allocated week (beginning on Mondays) with venue reversal to be allowed where problems exist, e.g., due to rain or ground availability. It is the home team’s responsibility to arrange Under 16, 13, 11 and 9 fixtures. All Clubs are to arrange their home fixtures and provide the Junior Secretary with a complete list of these dates, no later than 14th April. Failure to do so will result in a £25.00 fine. The game can only then be altered by mutual agreement within the allocated “play-by” week. If a league game is RAINED OFF, the game can be re-arranged only by mutual consent, and must be played on or before the last week of the regular league season. The rearranged date must be with the Junior Secretary by noon of the Wednesday following the original “play-by week”. If the opposition has travelled to the original rained off game, then the rearranged fixture will be reversed (subject to ground availability). Games can only be re-arranged if they have been RAINED OFF. In the event of the game not being played during the allocated week or on the re-arranged date, then the result must be recorded on “play-cricket” as a drawn match. 

(e) If two or more clubs tie on points at the top of the league table in one section at                the end of the season the winners will be decide in the following order.

(i) Head to Head record.

(ii) If more than two teams are tied and the head to head record does not provide an outright winner, the team with the most wins will be top. If the number of wins is equal between two or more teams the team with the least losses will be declared the winner. Should these all be equal the divisional winners will be decided by run rate in the games between the three tied teams.

(iii) If two teams are tied and the head to head match was rain affected or tied, and the records are identical. A play-off will take place in the form of a replay of the original league fixture.

(f) The league Championship will be decided by playing a Final match between the winners of the Northern and Southern sections, or where there are 3 Divisions in an age group the Championship will be decided by a T20 Finals Day between the winners of the 3 Divisions. 

In which the format will be as follows.

Game 1 - Team A v Team B

Game 2 - Team C v Winner of game 1

Game 3 – If Team C win they will play loser of Game 1

If all 3 teams win one game, then Run Rate will decide the Championship.

(g) Under 16, 13 and 11 Junior Results should be posted IN FULL by the home club onto play-cricket no later than Tuesday noon following the play by week.

If no result is posted within the allotted time, a £10 fine will be issued and the Secretary will award 0 points to the HOME TEAM and the MAXIMUM POINTS to the AWAY TEAM and publish the fact. Any objections to the decision must reach the Junior Secretary within 14 days or the points recorded will stand.

 

24 a) Players may not represent more than one junior team in the competition in any one season unless they have been granted dual registration. In League Games Clubs must not use players between A and B teams without prior agreement from the Junior League Secretary. If permission is granted then players can only play for either the A team OR the B team in any one “play by week”. Failure to comply will result in any points gained in such matches being deducted and awarded to the opponents. If clubs with A and B teams reach the play-off Final, then they can only use players who have played the majority of the season in that team.      

(b) In Junior “Knock-Out” Cup Competition, clubs can only use players who have played at least one league game for that club in the current season. If clubs enter more than one team in any age group Cup Competition then players can only play for one team. (Rule 24 a does not apply)

(c) When junior players are also representing adult teams they must play for the junior and adult team of the same club. The only exceptions to this rule will be in the following cases

Where a club does not have junior teams, but which do have playing members under 16 years of age. In such a case, the young player can take part in Junior cricket elsewhere and play for the senior team of their own club. Under 16’s may, therefore join another team in the League for the purpose of playing junior cricket.

When a Junior Club does not have a senior team in the Westmorland League, Junior members of that club can not play for another Westmorland Club’s senior team, unless granted permission by the Management Committee. Under 16’s may then, therefore, join another team in the League for the purpose of playing senior cricket.

(d) Any junior player representing his club at U-16 level may play for another club at U-13 level if his club does not have an U-13 side or visa-versa.

(e) Players are not eligible to represent junior teams in the League if they also play for a different club with a junior team in another league, unless they have been granted Dual Registration permission by the Management Committee. 

(f) When a junior player is transferred under senior rule 11, they must also then only play their junior cricket for the club they have transferred to, providing that club have a junior section.

 

25 RULES FOR THE U-11 “SOFT-BALL” and “HARD-BALL” COMPETITION

(a) Teams will be of 8 players.16 over’s per innings.

The 1st 8 overs will be bowled from one end, and the 2nd 8 overs from the opposite end. The field will rotate around after each pair has batted.

Each player will bowl 2 overs.

(b) Each team will be credited with a score of 200 at the start of the innings. Runs will be added to the      

score as in other forms of cricket, and 5 runs will be deducted at each fall of a wicket. 

(c) Wides and No-Balls will count as two runs, plus the batting side will be awarded any extra runs they score from the wide or no-ball, but the extra ball will not be awarded to the batting side, except in the last over of each innings.

 

(d) In Soft-Ball matches batters will appear in pairs and will remain together for a full 4 overs. Batters will change ends, upon the fall of a wicket, at the end of an over and if one Batter faces 3 consecutive “dot balls”. In Hard-Ball matches batters will retire when their score reaches 20 but will not return to the crease. Batters will be out when they are dismissed but can return to the crease in the order that they were out, they will again be out when dismissed or retire when their combine scores have reached 20. The innings will be completed after 16 overs have been bowled. 5 runs will be deducted from the team score (not the batters score) at the fall of each wicket.

(e) The length of the pitch must be 17 yards with 35 meter boundaries for “Soft-Ball” and 40 meter boundaries for “Hard-Ball”. It is recommended that stumps of junior size are used (height of each stump is 27 inches, width of 3 stumps when set is 8 inches). This prevents a ball of junior size from passing between the stumps. 

(f) The "Incrediball" of junior size must be used in all “Soft Ball” matches, and the 4 ¾ ounce ball in all “Hard-Ball” matches. In Soft-Ball games, this removes the need for leg protection for batters, but they should wear gloves and a box, and the wicket-keeper should wear gloves. 

(g) Where Clubs have Under 11 “Hard” and “Soft” Ball teams, Clubs may move players between the “Hard Ball” and “Soft Ball” teams, to find the correct standard of cricket for their Under 11 players. The League expect discretion on selecting which players are moving from Hard Ball to Soft Ball, and would expect that they would only play for either the Hard Ball team OR the Soft Ball team in any one “play by week”. However, to get a game fulfilled, if clubs need to play a player twice in a week then they must seek permission from the Junior League Secretary. It is the Clubs responsibility to make sure that all players are of the ability to play at the right level.

 (h) Players may not represent more than one junior team in the competition in any one season unless they have been granted dual registration. In League Games Clubs must not use players between A and B teams without prior agreement from the Junior League Secretary. If permission is granted then players can only play for either the A team OR the B team in any one “play by week”. Failure to comply will result in any points gained in such matches being deducted and awarded to the opponents.

 

26) RULES FOR THE INFORMAL “Under 9” LEAGUE

(a) Teams will be of 6 players.

(b) Batters will appear in pairs and will remain together for a full four over’s. Batters will change ends, upon a dismissal, at the end of each over or if they have faced 3 consecutive “dot balls”.

(c) The length of the pitch must be 15 yards, with 30 meter Boundaries. 

(d) The “Kwik-Cricket” ball or the “All Stars” ball must be used in all matches. 

(e) All 6 players will bowl 2 over’s each and All 12 over’s of the innings will be bowled from the same end. The field will be rotated around after each pair has batted.

(f) Each team will be credited with a score of 200 at the start of the innings. Runs will be added to the score as in other forms of cricket, and 5 runs will be deducted at each fall of a wicket. 

(g) There will be no “No-Balls” but “Wides” will count as two runs, plus the batting side will be awarded any extra runs they score from the wide, No extra ball will be awarded to the batting side, except in the last over of each innings.

(h) Results with final team scores now need to be put on play cricket, but no league tables will be published.

 

SECTION 6 Umpires and Scorers 

27 i) All League appointed umpires must meet the following criteria and be members of NP ACO North (formerly SLACO), subsidiary of Lancashire ACO

  • They must be approved by the Management Executive
  • They must have a good working knowledge of the Laws of Cricket 
  • They must accept that at any time they can be assessed by an umpire’s assessor also appointed by the league. 
  • They should be able to move around the field of play so as not to compromise the safety of themselves, the other umpire or any of the players.  Any concerns at any time by anyone should be immediately referred directly to NP ACO North. 
  • No umpire who has been suspended from any other league may umpire in the Westmorland League until such suspension has expired. 
  • No umpire who had been expelled from any other league for misconduct may umpire in the Westmorland League. 
  • All League appointed umpires must be DBS checked and approved. 
  • All umpires appointed by the league for any League match will be marked by both teams’ captains. This mark will be confidential but may be used for training and may be used to allocate umpires for semi finals and finals. 

 

28 - Failure by a club to mark an umpire within 7 days, in the first instance will result in a formal warning by email. On the second occasion, a final warning by email advising that on the next occasion a 1-point deduction will be applied. On the third, and each subsequent, failure, a further 1-point deduction will be applied. 

29 - In Division 1 League matches both umpires will be appointed by the Umpires Secretary.  Each club shall be responsible for payment of the fee of £55 to one umpire before the toss and this should be made at the same time as handing the teams cards and match balls to the umpires. In addition, in any game where the nominated captain is under the age of 18, a senior player must be nominated as the responsible adult who can support the captain in the event of safeguarding issues, concussion etc. This applies to games in all Divisions.

30 - In Division 2, for 2026 clubs are required to arrange for a club umpire to stand in their home games.  Where panel umpires are available, the Umpires Appointments Secretary will appoint a second umpire. Clubs are invited to submit requests to the Umpires Secretary for appointments to be made for all or some of their fixtures. These appointments will be filled on a “first come” basis and on the understanding that in the event of a shortage for Division 1, an umpire may be withdrawn from a Division 2 match. On a first occasion where a home team fails to have a club umpire (and has not been able to arrange for a panel umpire to cover) the team shall receive a first and final warning that subsequent breaches will lead to a 2 point deduction on each occasion. In Division 2 League matches the umpires for the away teams will be appointed by the Umpires’ Secretary. The away club shall be responsible for payment of the umpire before the toss, and this should be made at the same time as handing the teams cards and match balls to the umpires. If there are two panel umpires then each team is responsible for payment of one of the umpires’ expenses.

Club umpires are strongly advised to become ACB ECO members. This is important for the purposes of insurance.  

Club umpires are required to demonstrate a good working knowledge of the Laws of Cricket, and of the rules and relegations of the League.  As such, if they have not previously undertaken ECB ACO training then they should attend the pre-season meeting and the basic Laws awareness training session.

Clubs will be required to nominate their home umpire by 8 April to the umpires’ secretary together with information to register him/her on Who’s the Umpire.  Club umpires are required to attend the pre-season umpires’ meeting.

31 i) For WCL divisional league games where an umpire is requested/required to stand at both ends the fee paid should be an additional £25. 

(ii)  If the league game is abandoned within 90 minutes of the scheduled start time, only £25 of the umpire expenses fee is payable. (£40 if scheduled to stand at both ends) 

(iii)  If the league game is abandoned after 90 minutes from the scheduled start time the full fee is payable. 

(iv) Each club, other than those in Divisions 1 & 2, shall provide its own umpires for League matches, one for each team.  If only one umpire is available they shall have the right to officiate at both ends if they so wishes. 

(v) If an umpire is used for any other match who is not listed in the Handbook it will be the Club’s responsibility to make sure that that umpire meets the current “Safe Hands-Welfare of Young People in Cricket” regulations, including being DBS checked and approved and that if not an ECB ACO member that they are covered by the club’s insurance policy. 

(vi) Each competing club shall provide their own individual off field scorer for League and Cup matches. Should any club be unable to provide a designated scorer, whilst batting, that team must ensure that at all times during its innings a player fulfils the role of scorer. The home team is responsible for making sure that at least one scorer is using a scorebook as opposed to electronic scoring.  If the away scorer is using a book it is fine for the home team to use Play Cricket only.  Scorers should ideally sit together; if they choose not to then they should confer regularly to ensure that they agree as to the score.  This is particularly the case if one team has a player scorer and the other a designated scorer.

 Failure to do so in League matches will result in a penalty of 2 points on the first occasion and five points on any subsequent occasion during the same season. A team shall not be allowed to commence a cup final without providing a designated (non player) scorer. 

Deduction of points is restricted to Divisions 1 & 2 where umpires can report, or in any division if a league official is in attendance. Different players can be used throughout the innings. 

(vii) All panel umpires officiating in all games, must adhere to the “Dress code” recommended in “Tom Smith’s New Cricket Umpiring and Scoring”.  

 SECTION 7 Match Results 

32 Results and Scorecards 

(i) Scores for all league matches, including those cancelled by the weather, MUST be posted by the home club on play cricket not later than midnight of the game day. Failure to do this will result in a £5 fine for each occasion.

(ii) The Scorecard fully completed where possible (including all players and catchers) should be posted by 8pm on Tuesday of the game week, again by the Home Club.

(iii) Failure to do this will result in a £5 fine, unless communication has been made with the result secretary explaining why it is late

(iv) Clubs (captains) both Home and Away should then ensure all players and catchers from their team are correct, this should include “unsure” players, as well as catchers.

(v) The fully completed Scorecard with No omissions should be finalised by Thursday lunchtime of each game week. It is the responsibility of BOTH clubs to ensure this is done.

(vi) Failure of either the HOME or the AWAY team to complete the above will result in the offending team being given a £10 fine. And any unsure player will be deemed Ineligible and the result reversed unless prior contact has been made with the registration secretary and a good explanation made for the delay.

(vii) The LME will govern this on a case-by-case basis.

In Weather Affected Games

(viii) In games affected by the weather, the home club should also record any stoppages in play due to weather including overs lost and any agreed DLS score adjustments on the scorecard notes.

(ix) From time to time and particularly on rain affected weekends the bonus points in play cricket do not calculate correctly. In these instances communication should be made with the result secretary, and if these points aren’t claimed within 14 days of the game they will be lost.

(x) Results for cups will be detailed in specific cup rules. 

SECTION 8 MISCELLANEOUS

33. Financial Payments

All payments to the League (fines, balls, league fees etc.) must be made by bank transfer. Any other form of payment will incur a surcharge of £25.

 

34. Fines 

All fines shall be paid by bank transfer to the league bank account. Failure to pay a fine within 28 days of request shall result in ten points being deducted from the points’ total of such offending team/club 

Any club which fails to pay an outstanding account or fine by the AGM shall in addition have ten points deducted from each team at the start of the following season.

35. Trophies 

All trophies belonging to the League must be returned to the Hon. Secretary on or before 15th August in each year. Cup trophies are to be returned before 1st July.  

36. Annual Presentation Evening

Team and individual trophies will be presented at the Annual Awards Evening. Clubs will be charged for 2 tickets per WCL team along with their league fees

Statistics will be drawn from Play Cricket  

Qualification: As decided by the Management Executive at the end of each season taking into account the number of matches played and the number of overs allowed to be bowled.  

37. Ground Availability  

Any club whose ground is unavailable for cricket because of unavoidable ground sharing on any specific date or dates during the season must inform the Fixtures Secretary in writing stating the reason BEFORE the AGM prior to each season. If the ground is unavailable for reasons other than ground sharing, then a request may be made BEFORE the AGM prior to each season but will only be granted if it does not adversely affect fixtures.  No free dates will be granted to any club.  

38. Alteration to Rules 

(i) The rules of the League may at any time be amended, repealed or replaced by resolution at a general meeting of the League: provided that any such resolution receives majority of at least two thirds of the votes cast. 

(ii) Any alteration to a rule which has the effect of requiring consequential alterations to other rules will be considered to automatically have that effect . 

(iii) Propositions from clubs whose membership and other dues have been fully paid, must reach the League Secretary not later than 30th September in any year, or for the  Junior League Secretary no later than 31st December for Junior AGM. 

(iv) All new rules shall be experimental for 12 months and ratified at the next AGM 

39. Life Membership 

The Management Executive Committee shall be able to issue at their discretion life membership of the League, where it is felt that the honour should be bestowed.  

40. Dissolution of the League 

A resolution to dissolve the League can only be passed at a general meeting of the League. 

In the event of dissolution:  

(i) The general meeting shall appoint five trustees: each shall be from a different member Club and shall be from at least two different generations.  In the event of death of a trustee, the remaining trustees shall have the power to appoint further trustees: such trustees must be members of a Club who was a member of the League at time of dissolution, and be from a different Club to those represented by existing trustees. 

(ii)These trustees shall then have the power to manage any remaining assets of the League under the following guidelines: 

  • Any material assets (trophies etc.) shall be held in safe keeping and may not be sold.  The whereabouts of such assets should be recorded with the governing body of cricket in England. 
  • Any financial assets will be returned to the governing body of cricket in England.  These assets may then be used for development of cricket in the geographical area covered by the League.  If the League is re-formed any assets still held by the governing body shall be returned to the League. 
  • The trustees shall have the power to re-form the League under the current constitution providing that the re-formed League consists of a minimum of one third the same clubs in the league at time of dissolution.