Domestic Structure

• 09/05/2010

Following a recent Cricket Committee meeting the Club has discussed and decided its preferred format for the domestic structure moving forward. This is in response to the recent ECB consultation document which has been covered in the media over recent days. The Club will now submit its feedback to the ECB by the beginning of June as requested.

With regard to the Liverpool Victoria County Championship, the Club’s strong preference is for a divisional structure rather than a conference-based competition.

Warwickshire’s suggestion is for a Premiership Division of 7 teams playing home and away to give a total of 12 games. The side finishing top would be crowned as Champions while the 2 sides finishing bottom would be relegated into Division 1.

We propose that Division 1 consists of 11 teams playing home or away giving a total of 10 guaranteed fixtures in the regular season with the top side being promoted automatically. The sides finishing in 2nd to 5th positions would then enter semi-final and final play off fixtures to determine the second side to be promoted into the Premier Division.

It is felt that any reduction in the number of LVCC playing days must to used for better rest and preparation and not to accommodate further fixtures in other formats.

Whilst not specifically invited to comment on the other formats of the game the Club’s position remains in favour of a 40 or 50 over one day competition, ideally mirroring the international format and allowing for regular Sunday afternoon fixtures. The matches should be spaced evenly throughout the season with a late August showcase final.

The Club’s stance on the Twenty20 Competition is that it should continue to be played in the height of the summer in a window which excludes all other formats. We believe there are great opportunities to develop further commercial partnerships and to attract even more fans to this popular part on the domestic calendar. The Club will continue to explore all options but is keen to see the big name stars – both England centrally-contracted and recognised overseas players – participating in the competition.

* please note amends have been made on the earlier published story.