- The ECB Board has agreed that no professional cricket will be played in England and Wales before May 28.
- Work has begun on possible revised schedules to begin in June, July or August.
- The ECB has worked closely with the counties, PCA and MCC with the wellbeing of the cricket family the number one priority.
- A revised schedule would prioritise delivering as much international and domestic cricket as possible
Derbyshire County Cricket Club can confirm that there will be no professional cricket before 28 May, following an announcement made by the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) today.
The recommendation to delay the start of the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic was approved by the ECB Board following discussions with the First Class Counties, the MCC and the PCA.
It was agreed that, given the current information available, a seven-week delay to the start of the season is the most appropriate approach.
The ECB has begun modelling a range of options to start the season in June, July or August – with an immediate focus on options for cricket in June, including the three-Test series against West Indies, the Vitality Blast and England Women’s schedule against India.
Close liaison with the Government will continue, with discussions on the potential of starting the season behind closed doors and giving sports fans the opportunity to live broadcast action.
The potential for reduced versions of competitions, should the season become further truncated, will also be discussed.
Chief Executive of Derbyshire County Cricket Club, Ryan Duckett, said;
“This is an extremely challenging time for us all and with an impact on cricket inevitable, the sport must put the safety of everyone involved at the forefront of all decisions.
“The decision made by the ECB comes after full consultation across the game and with the necessary government bodies.
“We hope to see professional cricket return to Derbyshire as soon as possible, but will continue to closely follow the developing situation and provide assistance to the ECB wherever possible.
“The loyalty of our Members, supporters, sponsors and stakeholders is vital to Derbyshire County Cricket Club and on behalf of everyone associated with the club, I would like to thank them all for their support and understanding at this time.”
The ECB Board will meet as needed to review the position and make further decisions as the UK situation unfolds.
Derbyshire County Cricket Club will continue to communicate all updates to its Members and supporters via derbyshireccc.com.
