Dear All....
As most of you were aware, there was a Management meeting last night, with the main topic being the start of the season because of the appalling weather we have had this year.
It was very obvious we had to do something for the first week, many of the grounds being unfit, and ground staff being unable to get onto the ground.
However, we also have the "problem" of the cricket calendar being very full with limited availability due to the volume of Senior, Cup, Sunday, Junior and Women's cricket that is due to be played this year.
After discussion it was decided that the fixtures scheduled for the 20th and 21st April are to be postponed until the 21st and 22nd September. It is appreciated that this does not help any club in preparing the wicket for winter/next season, but was seen as the best alternative available.
The Junior Fixtures which were due to be played on Monday 22nd April (U13's) and Wednesday 24th April (U15's) are now cancelled. This is very unfortunate but, as said before, appeared to be the best solution under the circumstances.
However, the FULL League programme WILL commence on the weekend of Saturday 27th April, with all matches to be played that weekend. If unable to be played they will be abandoned and (in the League) 7 points allocated to each team.
Although we are aware this does not suit everyone, this was the best conclusion we could reach under the circumstances.
With the League being put back the Executive Meeting that WAS scheduled for 18th April 2024 at Dinting is NOW 25th April 2024, again at Dinting, for 7.30pm. It is hoped that we will be able to distribute all match balls, rule books, and umpires coats at this meeting.
Yours Sincerely,
Mike Stansfield
Hon Secretary
Derbyshire and Cheshire Cricket League.