Senior Rules

Except as varied hereunder, the Laws of Cricket shall apply to all matches played in the senior section of the Eastern Cricket Association Inc.

The use of penalty runs as defined within the laws of cricket, except when it relates to Law 28.2 (fielding the ball) and Law 28.3 (ball striking helmet), will not apply in matches played under these rules.

In relation to Law 42 - Players Conduct, this Law will only apply to matches played under these rules where there are two ECA appointed umpires in attendance.

The team batting first in a match shall be referred to as “Team A” and the team batting second as “Team B”.

“Amended time for commencement of play” means the time set down by the official umpires or, in their absence, the agreed starting time as set down by both captains.

“Full over entitlement” refers to the minimum number of overs that have to be bowled in all matches as set out in rules 5, 6 and 20

“Fixed penalty” means the amount of any penalty, not being a suspended penalty, as determined by the Executive Council.

Should a club withdraw a team from a grade after the commencement of any season, all opposition teams in the relevant grade will be awarded points equal to that of a bye for any home and away match in that season involving the withdrawn team, prior to the withdrawal or up to 31 December in that season, whichever is the earlier. Where the withdrawal occurs after 31 December all subsequent matches involving the withdrawn team will be treated as a forfeit. The match results of the withdrawn team prior to withdrawal will stand. The remaining teams in the grade advised accordingly within 7 days of the withdrawal. The club who withdrew the team shall be dealt with by the Executive Council.

Any club that plans to forfeit a match must notify the Operations Manager and the opposition club by 8pm on the day preceding the match. Failure to do so will incur a fine of 5 penalty units.

A club’s forfeiting team must be its lowest ranked team (as defined by Rule 11.5). Failure to do so will mean the club’s team(s) ranked lower than the forfeited team shall also be deemed to have forfeited it match and these teams shall be dealt with in accordance with these rules. Any Limited Over Team may be exempt from this requirement, provided a club applies to and receives permission from the Operations Manager by 8pm the day before the start of a match.

Any club forfeiting a match shall be fined 4 penalty units per team for the first offence and this will increase by 2 penalty units for every subsequent forfeit.

When a team receives a forfeit, it shall be awarded six (6) match points.

When the day of play for a one or full day match or both days of a two day match are cancelled under rule 3.8, the result of the match shall be declared an abandoned game.

If a team has been allocated a bye in a round impacted by rule 2.3.1, that team shall continue to be awarded the match points for a bye.

During the home and away season, the Executive Council may fixture reserve days that maybe used in the event that a whole round/s of matches are cancelled in either the Turf or Synthetic competitions.

The teams in each grade shall be placed on a ladder in the order of the number of match points earned.

If two or more teams are equal on match points, the relative positions of those teams on the ladder shall be determined by their “Quotient” unless changed by these rules:

where - A = the total number of runs scored by the team B = the total number of wickets lost by the team C = the total number of runs scored against the team D= the total number of wickets taken by the team.

The team having the higher “Quotient” shall be placed higher on the ladder.

In all matches, averages shall be computed on the total wickets lost. (Note: when a team does not have eleven players and is “all out” it shall be deemed to have lost ten wickets). Where an innings is declared it is only the actual number of wickets that have been lost.

Where the award of match points may be varied by these rules, the scores of the offending team in the match concerned shall not be taken into account for ascertaining the overall average of both teams.

The teams in each grade shall be placed on a ladder in the order of the number of match points earned.

If two or more teams are equal on match points, the relative positions of those teams on the ladder shall be determined by their “Net Run Rate”, which shall be calculated by using the following formula:

Where :- A= the total number of runs scored by the team B = the total number of overs faced by the team C = the total number of runs scored against the team D = the total number of overs bowled by the team.

The team having the higher “Net Run Rate” shall be placed higher on the ladder.

For the calculation of “net run rate” any over commenced shall be deemed as a completed over.

For the calculation of “net run rate” a team will be deemed to have faced their full allocation of overs where they have been dismissed in less overs.

Where the award of match points may be varied be these rules, the scores of the offending team in the match concerned shall not be taken into account for ascertaining the “net run rate” of both teams.

At the conclusion of the home-and-away matches, the first four teams on the ladder in each grade shall play off for the premiership.

Unless special provisions are made before the start of any season the following shall apply:

For semi-final matches, the first-placed team shall play the fourth-placed team and the second-placed team shall play the third- placed team. The winning team of each semi-final shall play off in the final match for the premiership of the relevant grade.

On synthetic pitches using a rollout surface, a delivery pitched outside the width of the rolled out surface or striking the space or overlap between the two rolls or the adjacent bindings or lashing or landing in a hole in the surface shall be called a “NO-BALL” by either umpire.

On synthetic pitches using a permanently laid (stuck-down) surface, a delivery pitched outside the width of the surface shall be called, a “NO-BALL” by either Umpire.

If the return creases are not marked on a synthetic pitch then Law 21.5.1 (a bowlers back foot must not touch the return crease) will not be utilised to assess for a no ball call.

A delivery pitched on the playing surface of a Synthetic pitch, which passes so wide of the striker in normal batting stance position, shall be called a “WIDE”.

Where a rollout synthetic surface only covers the pitch from popping crease to popping crease, the actual edge of the rollout synthetic surface shall constitute the popping creases.

All matches played on synthetic pitches, where the level of the playing surface is higher than the area immediately behind the popping crease, the persons batting shall be deemed to be in their ground for the purposes of Laws of Cricket 38 and 39 (Run Out and Stumped), if some part of the bat in hand or of the person is touching on and extending over the agreed line of the popping crease, even though there is no contact with the ground behind the line of the popping crease.

All grounds and pitches shall at all times be subject to the approval of the Executive Council and any instructions issued by it for their improvement shall be carried out.

All matches shall be played on turf or synthetic pitches or any other type of pitch approved by the Executive Council.

On or before the first day of August in each year, clubs entering team(s) shall notify the Operations Manager of the location of the home ground for each team for the ensuing year. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 4 penalty units.

Semi-final and final matches shall be played on a ground, approved by the Executive Council, provided by the club, which team finished higher on the ladder at the conclusion of the home-and-away series of matches.

The Association shall have prior claim over all grounds of clubs competing in the Association especially for the use for semi-final and final matches.

A home club shall provide a pitch and ground approved by the Executive Council when its regular ground is not available for a complete round, and shall notify the Operations Manager of the change at least 72 hours prior to the commencement of the match.

A club unable to provide a ground for a complete round shall forfeit the match. However, in cases where it can be proven to the satisfaction of the Executive Council that the pitch was not prepared or the ground was not available due to circumstances beyond their control, the club shall not be held responsible.

The home club shall make every effort to ensure that facilities (pavilions, toilets etc) are available for the convenience of players and umpires 30 minutes before play is scheduled to commence and until 30 minutes after play has concluded for the day.

Before the commencement of each match and each day of play, all requirements related to the insurance coverage held by the club (checklist, ground assessments etc) must be completed. A club who fails to comply with this rule shall be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit.

All pitches and grounds shall be properly prepared, weather permitting, for each day’s play by the home club. The home club shall also be responsible for the laying of rollout synthetic surfaces (if necessary) and for defining and marking the boundaries where necessary. The home club shall be responsible for ensuring that sufficient soil/sand/grass is in the wicket boxes on synthetic pitches so as to hold the wickets and for the wickets to be set at the same level as the pitch.

In case of adverse weather, and if play has not been cancelled, every possible attempt shall be made by the home club to ensure that the ground is fit for play by the scheduled starting time. Before commencement of play on any day, both umpires and captains shall see that any necessary steps are taken to improve the ground or the pitch, with a view to expediting play. The umpires shall not draw stumps until the hour fixed by these rules for the conclusion of the day's play, unless they are satisfied there is no possibility of play.

If the competing clubs agree more than two hours before the scheduled starting time on the match that the condition of the ground or pitch renders play impossible on that day, the Operations Manager is to be informed immediately and the relevant Grade Secretary within 30 minutes of the decision being made.

The area between the popping crease and the stumps shall be filled in level with the pitch and the approach to the wicket shall be sufficiently level to enable the bowler to obtain a fair run to the wicket.

Where a club uses a rollout synthetic surface, it shall not be less than 1.83 metres wide, and shall be in good condition. The gap between the rolls at the centre of the pitch shall not exceed 0.915 metres either side of the centre point of the pitch.

The Executive Council may require a Club whose synthetic surface is, in its opinion, not of the required length or in good condition, to replace or repair the synthetic to the satisfaction of the Executive Council within a reasonable time.

If the visiting club wishes to inspect the pitch before a rollout synthetic surface is laid, a representative pf the visiting club shall attend at the ground at least 30 minutes before the scheduled starting time. Should the visiting club representative lodge an objection, the laying of the rollout synthetic surface shall be deferred until the arrival of the official umpires and, on reference to them, their decision shall be final. If an official umpire has not arrived by 30 minutes prior to the scheduled starting time, the pitch shall be swept and the rollout synthetic surface shall be laid forthwith and the protest noted on the match report.

The ground management will have discretion on the rolling and preparation of Turf pitches to ensure the pitch is properly prepared for each day of play of a match.

The location of a match may be changed during a match at the discretion of the Executive Council (or their appointee). Any new location, must, in the opinion of the Executive Council (or their appointee), be equal to or in better condition than the original. Once a decision has been made to change, then the match will continue, just like any other resumption of play after an interruption.

Where play does not recommence as scheduled in Rule 3.5.9 above because of the refusal of one of the teams to play, the team unwilling or unable to play shall be fined a minimum of 4 penalty units, forfeit the match and will be dealt with by the Executive Council.

Boundaries shall, where possible, be at least 55 metres from the centre of the pitch.

Boundaries of each ground shall be marked by a distinguishing line, rope or by easily distinguishable markers. The line, rope or markers must be a minimum distance of 3 yards (2.74 metres) inside any off field hazards which include but not limited to, fencing, concrete perimeters, gutters, trees or other solid fixtures which may cause injury to fielders. A club who fails to comply with this rule shall be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit.

Where the boundary line is not permanently defined, the home team shall provide any secure methods of ensuring boundaries are in the same place for all days.

If gutters form any part of the boundary, they shall be clearly visible from the centre of the pitch. If not, boundary markers shall be used.

Boundary markers shall be clearly visible and placed not more than 15 metres apart and the boundary, unless defined by a rope or marked line clearly visible from the centre of the pitch, shall be a straight line between the markers. The distance of the boundary markers from the pitch shall be marked or otherwise agreed between the captains and umpires (if applicable) on day one of a two day match so as to ensure a similar distance on day two of the match.

Boundary flags, if used, shall be at least 30cm above the ground and of a clearly distinguishable colour and size.

Plastic boundary markers (domes or witches’ hats) may also be used.

Where boundaries overlap, distinguishing markers shall be used for each ground’s boundary.

Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 1 penalty unit for each breach.

The conditions for the use of covers from the preceding season shall remain in force unless the Executive Council, prior to September 1 in the current season advises clubs of a change.

The conditions for use of covers shall be issued by the Turf Wicket Committee.

Any club, whose ground management insists that a variation to Rule 3.7.1 and/or 3.7.2 is needed, must apply and receive permission from the Turf Wicket Committee by 7pm of the day preceding match day. The Turf Wicket Committee reserves the right to review the result of any match where they consider the result may have been adversely impacted by the non- compliance to the correct playing conditions.

In semi-finals and final matches, the competing clubs shall comply with any conditions imposed by the Turf Wicket Committee.

Clubs failing to comply with any conditions of use of covers (except those exempt, as a result of Rule 3.7.3) shall be dealt with as Turf Wicket Committee sees fit. This may include loss of a match or a fine or both.

Should the Umpire(s), or in their absence the captains call off play due to adverse weather on a day of play where a subsequent consecutive day of play is scheduled for the same match then the following shall apply:

(i) The use of the covers shall be under the control of the Umpire(s). If the Umpire(s) feel the prevailing weather conditions will assist the wicket table to be ready for the next day’s play, the Umpire(s) and sufficient players from both clubs required to lay or remove the covers, must remain at the ground until 5:30pm so that the Umpire(s) may instruct both clubs on when to lay and remove the covers. The decision on the use of the covers after 5.30pm is under the control of the Umpire(s).

(ii) The Umpire fee shall be as per the Schedule of Umpire Fees issued by the Executive prior to the commencement of each season in accordance with Rule 10.6.

(iii) No player or official may carry out work on the Turf wicket or surrounds without the permission of the ground management. The designated home club is responsible for making every effort to contact ground management to ensure that Umpire requests to improve the ground can be accommodated.

Where adverse weather forecasts warrant, the Turf Wicket Committee has sole discretion to instruct clubs to lay covers early on any day prior to a match.

The laying of covers in all grades shall include the compulsory laying of hessian as an underfelt between the pitch to be played on and the cover. The Hessian should as a minimum be large enough to cover the rolled surface and must be completely enclosed by the protecting cover.

Where weather conditions warrant, the Turf Wicket Committee, at their discretion, may offer clubs the opportunity to decline the use of covers on the night prior to a match day. Should a club proceed with the use of covers all normal conditions regarding the laying of covers should apply.

The Executive Council may cancel matches should there be any extreme or prolonged adverse weather conditions prior to the commencement of any day’s play. The adverse weather procedures will be issued by the Executive Council prior to 15 September each season.

The website, social media details and telephone number to be checked and called on days of adverse weather shall be notified by the Executive Council before the start of the season.

Drinks shall not be taken more than once in any session of play, This rule maybe varied by the umpire(s), or in the absence of umpires, by agreement between both captains, to allow more than one drinks interval per session of play, due to the prevailing weather conditions.

The home club shall, on all days of play, provide drinks. Failure to comply with this rule shall be reported to the Association by the umpire(s), or, if there are no official umpires, by the visiting club. A fine of four penalty units will be levied on the first occasion that a club fails to comply with this rule and eight penalty units on the second occasion.

The sharing of drinking vessels is not permitted under any circumstances. If drinking vessels are to be used they must be cleaned before any use and cleaned between subsequent uses. The home club shall supply drinking vessels for players and umpires. It is recommended that clubs use disposable cups in all matches. A fine of four penalty units will be levied on the first occasion that a club fails to comply with this rule and eight penalty units on the second occasion.

Subsequent breaches of rules 3.9.2 and 3.9.3 will be dealt with by the Executive Council.

The umpires shall call "time" and at the same time remove the bails from both wickets on the cessation of play before any arranged interval and at the end of play each day.

Failure by the home club to provide appropriate match equipment, such as rollout surface, stumps, bails, boundary markers, etc., in a satisfactory condition shall be reported by the umpire(s), or, if there are no official umpires, by the visiting club . Failure by the home club to comply with this rule, shall incur a fine of 4 penalty units.

The Executive Council shall direct a club whose stumps and/or bails are defective in any way to replace them within a reasonable time to the satisfaction of the Executive Council. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of not less than 4 penalty units.

All clubs shall provide at their home grounds an appropriate and clearly legible scoreboard. It is the batting team’s responsibility to update the scoreboard at a minimum of every 2 overs. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 2 penalty units for each breach.

Under wet conditions, the home team shall provide sufficient sawdust. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 2 penalty units.

When no official umpire has arrived 30 minutes prior to the time for commencement of play, the home club shall be responsible for the proper fixing of the stumps, the marking of the creases, and any other necessary markings on the pitch.

All Players are to wear helmets in the following circumstances:

i) When fielding close to the bat, within 10 metres of the wicket (ie. Silly mid on, silly mid off, short leg, leg slip etc) but not slip & gully fielders;

ii) When wicketkeeping within 3 metres of the wicket;

iii) When Batting against fast or medium pace bowling. If necessary, whether the bowling is fast or medium pace will be determined by the official appointed umpires or, in their absence, the batting captain. Failure to comply with this rule shall be reported by the official appointed umpires or, in their absence, either captain to the Operations Manager by 8pm on the Monday following the incident. The Executive Council will then determine what penalty, if any, to impose on the club and the player(s).

Each home club or team shall provide an efficient first aid kit. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 2 penalty units for each breach.

In the event of an active thunderstorm, lightning or electrical storm in the immediate vicinity of the ground the following is to apply:

(i) play is to cease IMMEDIATELY and all players and umpires are to find safe shelter without delay. Safe shelters include large substantial buildings with electric or telephone wiring and/or plumbing that provide a safe current to the ground. Players and others should not remain in open areas or take refuge beneath trees. Once play has ceased covers must not be laid.

(ii) To determine what is ‘in the immediate vicinity’, players and Umpires should follow the “30/30” rule:

a. Play must stop when the time between a lightning flash and thunder bang is 30 seconds or less since this indicates that the lightning is 10km away. This creates a significant risk that the next lightning strike could be at observer’s location.

b. Play must only commence 30 minutes after both the last lightning flash and last thunder bang.

If at any time either umpires (or in their absence, the captains together) decide, that the conditions of ground, weather or light are so bad that there is obvious and foreseeable risk to the safety of any player or umpire, so that it would be unreasonable or dangerous for play to take place, then they shall immediately suspend play, or not allow play to commence or to restart. The decision as to whether conditions are so bad as to warrant such action is one for the umpires alone to make (or in their absence, the captains). The fact that the grass and the ball are wet and slippery does not warrant the ground conditions being regarded as unreasonable or dangerous. If the umpires (or captains) 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 batsmen 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 unreasonable for play to take place. Should an umpire not be in attendance and both captains can not agree, then either captain may contact a member of the Executive Council for a determination. Once a decision is made by the ECA Representative, then that decision is final.

The Executive Council shall determine the type and brand of ball or balls permitted to be used in each grade. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 4 penalty units.

All balls used in matches on turf pitches shall have four-piece leather covers and all balls used in matches on synthetic pitches shall have two-piece leather covers.

In all matches, each team shall supply two approved new balls, and one approved reserve ball, all of a quality that meets the satisfaction of the umpires.

Each team shall have the balls under their control during the day.

A new ball shall be used at the commencement of each first innings and a new ball may be used in an opponent’s second innings.

In all matches, but subject to rule 3.13.7, the balls that have been provided by each team shall be used when its opponents are batting.

The umpires shall decide when a ball is unfit for play and the home club shall have a supply of reserve balls for use if the original and reserve balls supplied by the bowling team are lost or destroyed or unfit for play.

Before the toss for choice of innings, the captains shall notify each other in writing of the players in their team for the match on the official ECA Team Sheet.

(a) Such named players (Interchange Players excepted) shall not play or be named to play in any other association match (other than ECA Sunday, junior or veterans matches) during the scheduled day(s) of play for the match, irrespective of any abandonment or conclusion of play in the named game.

(b) Any changes after the toss to the players in the nominated team,must be agreed by the captain of the oppostion team, and mst be noted on the team sheet. All under-age (defined by Rule 3.21) and any interchange players are to be highlighted on the team sheets.

(c) The captains are to notify the umpire/s, or if no official umpires, each other, of any under-age and interchange players participating in the match.

(d) The original team sheet is to be retained by the officiating umpire if one is appointed, otherwise by the opposition captain and the copy of the team sheet is to be retained by the club completing it until the end of the season. Failure to do so may incur a penalty of 10 penalty units.

This rule is based on where a player last played or was named to play in the current home and away season. Parts (i), (ii) and (iii) do not apply to players under 18 years of age or 40 years of age or older as at 1st September in the current season.

(i) Player last played/named to play in 1st or 2nd XI of a club: A player can drop one team only (as ranked by his club), from the previous team in which that player last played or was named to play, in the current home and away season. Example: A club has the following teams: First XI, Second XI, Third XI, Fourth XI and Fifth XI. In round 3 a player has played or been named to play in the Second XI. In round 4 the player can play in First XI, Second XI and Third XI but not in the Fourth XI and Fifth XI

(ii) Player last played/named to play in 3rd XI or lower of a club A player can drop two teams only (as ranked by his club), from the previous team in which that player last played or was named to play, in the current home and away season. Example: A club has the following teams: First XI, Second XI, Third XI, Fourth XI, Fifth XI and Sixth XI. In round 3 a player has played or been named to play in the Third XI in Round 3. In round 4 the player can play in Third XI, Fourth XI and Fifth XI (and First XI and Second XI if promoted) but not in the Sixth XI.

(iii) A player shall not play or be named to play in any lower grade (as ranked by his club) after he has played or been named to play in a total of more than 14 playing days in any one higher grade or combination of higher grades in the home and away season, without the prior approval of the Executive Council providing that such approval is requested no later than 24 hours prior to the scheduled starting time of the match for which the request is made. Example: A club has the following teams: First XI, Second XI, Third XI, Fourth XI and Fifth XI. A player has played or been named to play in a total of 15 playing days in the First XI and Second XI. The player is not able to play or be named in the Third XI, Fourth XI or Fifth XI without the prior approval of the Executive Council.

(iv) Rules 3.14.2(i) and (ii) do not apply to a player who has not played or been named to play in any team in the previous 4 playing days (inclusive).

(v) Exception to Part (ii) only: A player can drop more than two grades (as ranked by his club) from the previous grade in which that player last played or was named to play, in the home and away season, to a team in the Limited Overs Competition (LOC), only when the player is available for one week of a round where turf and/or synthetic section are playing two day matches. If the turf and synthetic sections are playing a fixtured one day game a player can only drop a grade/s in accordance with (i) and (ii) above. A player who drops more than two grades under this exception cannot play two weeks in a row in the LOC in the same round of two day matches in the turf and/or synthetic section. After playing or being named in the LOC team, the players’ next game must be in the grade that he played or was named to play prior to playing in the LOC, subject to (ii) applying. Example: A club has the following teams: First XI, Second XI, Third XI, Fourth XI, Fifth XI and Sixth XI. The Sixth XI is a LOC team. In round 3 a player has played in the Third XI. In round 4 (2 day games in turf and synthetic) the player can play in the Fourth XI, Fifth XI and Sixth XI (LOC week 1 or 2). In round 5 the player can play in the Third XI, Fourth XI or Fifth XI

(vi) This section applies to clubs with teams also in Premier Cricket and the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association (VSDCA). For the purposes of this rule all teams in these competitions shall deemed to be ranked higher than any ECA team/s. A player can only drop from the lowest ranked Premier Cricket or VSDCA team to the clubs first ranked ECA team. For example, Club A is in Premier Cricket. A player can drop one grade only from the lowest ranked non-ECA grade in which that player last played or was named to play to the first ranked ECA team (Premier Fourth XI to first ranked ECA team).

(vii) This section applies to clubs with teams in other VMCU associations (not Premier Cricket and VSDCA). All clubs with teams in other VMCU competitions must advise the Operations Manager by no later than 15 September of each season of the team rankings within their club for the season. Based on the team rankings, the Operations Manager will advise the club before 1 October which of (i) and/or (ii) applies to the ECA registered teams and the grade or combination of higher grades for the purposes of (iii).

(viii) If exceptional fixturing circumstances occur that may prevent a player from playing in a particular round (ie: Sunday play, bye in team to be dropped to), a permit can be requested from the Executive Council for an exemption to the provisions of this rule. A request for such a permit will only be considered provided a written request from the club has been received by the Operations Manager no later than 8pm on the Wednesday before the start of the match. The player may only participate in the round when the requested permit has been granted and the club has been advised in writing.

(ix) Clubs involved in a match must, unless exceptional circumstances exist, notify the Operations Manager by 8.00pm on the Wednesday after the completion of a game their intention to lodge a complaint about any alleged breach of Rules 3.14.2, 3.14.3 and 3.14.4.

When a club's team does not play on the scheduled day of play for a match (extreme weather, forfeit etc) any player who plays or is named in a team that is ranked at least two or more rankings lower than the team that did not play, a player so named is NOT eligible to play in the next scheduled day of play for a match for the team that did not play. Example: A club has teams in A, B, D and E grades that are ranked in this order and the B grade team is washed out. Only players who played or were named in the D grade team can play in the next scheduled day(s) of play for a match for the B grade team. Players who played or were named in the E grade team CANNOT play in the next scheduled day(s) of play for a match for the B grade team.

i) if exceptional fixturing circumstances occur that may prevent a player from playing in a particular round (ie: Sunday play, bye in a grade), a permit can be requested from the Executive Council for an exemption to the provisions of this rule. A request for such a permit will only be considered provided a written request from the club has been received by the Operations Manager no later than 8pm on the Wednesday before the start of the match. The player may only participate in the round when the requested permit has been granted and the club has been advised in writing

Clubs may interchange one player for another in a team during a two day home and away match, subject to the following conditions:

i) This rule also does not apply to semi finals and finals matches in any grades.

ii) There is a limit of two interchange players in all Senior Mixed two day games. Rule 3.14.2 also applies to each interchange player.

iii) The interchange players must be named on the team sheet prior to the toss and must show who is to play on day 1 and who is to play on day 2 and also be entered as interchange players in the Competition Management System. Once named as an interchange, a player cannot participate in the game on their respective other day of play other than as a substitute fielder.

(iv) Each interchange player can bat in any innings of the match. If the interchange player is not out at the end of day 1, the day 2 interchange player will commence batting on day 2 in place of the not out batsman, however should a player be dismissed in an innings the other player cannot commence batting in that innings. Each player may bowl in the same innings if it takes place over two days but only one interchange player can bowl on any given playing day

(v) For the purposes of eligibility and qualifications for semi finals and finals matches, the each interchange player shall be considered to have played one playing day each.

(i) Limited Over Competition (LOC) Synthetic & Turf grade(s) only - A team can play 12 players with only 11 players being allowed to bat, and only up to 11 players being able to bowl (ie the 12th player can either bat or bowl - not do both). All players named in a team must physically take the field at some stage during the match. The maximum number of players at any one time for the fielding side is 11.

(ii) With the consent of the umpires, or as agreed between the captains if an official umpire is not present, unlimited interchange of the 12 nominated players shall be allowed between overs or after intervals or interruptions.

(iii) A substitute is only allowed, outside the nominated 12 players, if the injured or absent fielder cannot be replaced by another nominated player within the 12. For clarity, substitute players are not permitted if there are 11 nominated players available.

(iv) All 12 players must be named on the team sheet and in PlayHQ prior to the toss.

The following penalties shall apply for breaches of rule 3.14.2, 3.14.3 and 3.14.4:

(i) A club who plays a player which contravenes these rules, shall be fined 2 penalty units for each match in which the player played or was named, and be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit.

(ii) A team who plays or names a player which contravenes these rules shall:

• lose any matches in which such a player played or was named; and
• lose any match points awarded in any matches in which such a player played or was named; and
• lose one match point for each match in which such a player played or was named; and
• have their scores deleted from the official records of the Association.

(iii) The opposition team who is impacted by a player who contravenes these rules shall receive the maximum points awarded in that grade and round.

(iv) Any player who contravenes these rules shall be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit, and have any played matches not count towards qualifications for semi-final or final matches, averages or association awards.

If play has not been cancelled by the Association, the official umpires or, in their absence, the captains, shall inspect the ground and pitch with a view to determining their fitness for play at least 20 minutes before the scheduled starting time of the day’s play. Official umpires, or on their absence, the captains, shall continue with inspections until it is determined that play can start or be abandoned.

Once the official umpires or, in their absence, the captains, have agreed that the ground and pitch are fit for play, the coin shall be tossed at least 15 minutes before the agreed starting time.

In all matches, including semi-final and final matches, the captain of the first-named team shall spin the coin.

If the toss for the choicer of innings (the toss) has not been made by 15 minutes before the scheduled match starting time or before the agreed starting time, the team unavailable to toss shall be deemed to have lost the toss.

The toss shall be made in the presence of the professional umpires, if in attendance.

The captain winning the toss shall forthwith advise the opposing captain of the decision to bat or field.

Once the toss has taken place, if either captain refuses to play, there having been no material change in the state of the conditions of the ground, pitch, weather or light, such refusal to play shall be deemed to constitute a forfeiture of the match.

If no play takes place on the day the toss occurred, such toss becomes void.

A player may transfer from his ECA home club on a loan basis (loan player), using the permit request system in , in order to assist a team with another ECA club that is short of players (borrowing team). A loan player must obtain a permit from the ECA for each match. A loan player shall not have played or been named to play in a grade more than two grades above the borrowing team. This sub-rule does not apply to: (a) a player who has not played or been named to play in any team in the previous 4 playing days (inclusive); and (b) players under 21 years of age or 40 years or older as at 1st September in the current season. Any player involved in a loan transfer shall not be permitted to be cleared in the current season to the club of the borrowing team without the permission of the players home club and the ECA.

A fielder who is under 18 years of age as at 1 September in the current season and fails to take the field at the start of play shall not incur Penalty Time. This will be accepted as wholly acceptable for the purpose of Law of Cricket 24.3 Penalty Time Not Incurred. This exemption will not apply in any ECA semi-final or finals matches.

Where an ECA Sunday competition exists, a player cannot play or be named to play for a team in any Saturday competition (ECA or other competition) and in the ECA Sunday competition on the same weekend unless amended below. This prohibition does not apply to players under 18 years of age or 40 years of age or older as at 1st September in the current season or where a player, irrespective of age, has played no higher than a club’s 3rd XI in a competition other than Premier Cricket or Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association during the current season. For all other players, a permit can be requested from the Executive Council for an exemption to this rule. A request for such a permit will only be considered provided a written request from the club has been received by the Operations Manager no later than 8pm on the Wednesday before the start of the match. The player may only participate in the round when the requested permit has been granted and the club has been advised in writing.

Should a member of the fielding side be under-16 years of age, care should be taken to ensure that fielder is positioned safely. The Code of Behaviour and the Junior Section Safety provisions should be taken as the minimum requirement.

The team batting second, shall not close its first innings at the same score as that of its opponent’s first innings.

The decision to declare or forfeit an innings is for the captain of the batting team ONLY, acting alone. (The Laws of Cricket do not intend that the two captains willing act in concert to reach any agreement).

The captain of a team shall not declare its second innings closed whilst still behind (or having the same score as) its opponent’s aggregate score.

The over in progress at the close of each day of play shall be completed unless:

• a result has been reached
• adverse weather intervenes.

All home clubs are expected to provide afternoon tea for visiting club members, officials and umpires.

For lunch intervals in “Full-Day” matches, home clubs are expected to provide appropriate drinks, while each team provides its meal.

Umpires shall advise captains when five minutes remain before the scheduled or amended commencement of play each day.

If play on any day of a match does not start at the scheduled time for reasons other than bad light, adverse weather conditions or the ground being unfit for play, the official umpire at the bowler's end at the commencement of play shall immediately notify such default to the captain of the offending team.

Where there is no official umpire in attendance, the captain of the offended team may appeal, through his club, to the Executive Council for a decision regarding any penalties and the result of the match.

Umpires and captains shall synchronise their watches prior to the commencement of play.

The time of starting shown in the umpires' report shall be accepted as correct.

If play does not commence at the scheduled starting time, the team unwilling or unable to play shall incur a fine of 2 penalty units.

Where play has not commenced 30 minutes after the scheduled starting time, the team unwilling or unable to play shall be fined 4 penalty units, forfeit the match and will be dealt with by the Executive Council.

Bowling Type Definition

This rule applies to under-age bowlers of medium pace or faster, as determined by the umpire, are broadly defined as those for whom the wicketkeeper would normally stand back or as any bowler who is not considered to be a spinner. This rule does not apply to a spinner.

Age of Player

A player's age shall be determined as that at 1 September preceding a cricket season and the appropriate bowling limitations shall apply to the player for that entire season regardless of the age group or level of competition being played.

Bowling Limitations

a) Bowlers shall be limited to a maximum of consecutive overs in any one spell and to a maximum daily quota as follows: Age Group Consecutive Overs Daily Quota Under 19 7 20 Under 17 6 16 Under 15 5 12 Under 13 4 8

b) A part of an over bowled under the provisions of Law 17.8 shall be treated as one full over in the limit for any underage bowler concerned in the over.

Break Between Spells: Length of Break

(a) The break between spells shall be a minimum of 60 minutes in a match of two or more days and 30 minutes in a match of one day, including scheduled intervals and any unscheduled breaks in play.

(b) A bowler who has bowled a spell of less than the maximum spell permitted (for their age as defined in 2 above) may resume bowling prior to the completion of the necessary break but this shall be considered an extension of the same spell and the maximum spell limit for that age of player shall still apply. Following the completion of the extended spell, the normal break between spells as in 3(a) above shall apply with the break within the spell to be disregarded. Example 1: An Under 19 fast bowler bowls 6 overs in a spell in a two day match. The bowler then has a break of 30 minutes and bowls a further over. The bowler must then have a break of 60 minutes. Example 2: An Under 19 fast bowler bowls 5 overs in a spell in a two day match. The bowler then has a break of 70 minutes. The bowler has completed the necessary break so can bowl a further spell of 7 overs (subject to daily quota).

(c) If a change of innings occurs, and a bowler commences bowling in the new innings within 60 minutes of bowling in the previous innings, this shall be considered an extension of the same spell and the maximum spell limit and daily limits for that age of player shall still apply.

(d) If any break in play or the end of a day's play results in an over not being completed then that part of the over bowled after the break shall constitute one over for the purposes of calculating the bowler's spell and daily limit. If this over is completed at the start of a new day the over shall be considered the first over of a new spell for that bowler and the first over of the new daily limit.

Change of Bowling Type

(a) If a bowler begins with medium pace or faster and changes to slow bowling during a day's play that bowler remains subject to the playing condition throughout the day.

(b) If a bowler begins with slow bowling and changes to medium pace or faster the playing condition applies from the time of the change, and any overs bowled prior to the change shall not be taken into account in either the current spell or the daily limit.

Notification of Age Captains must notify the umpires on the team sheet for the match those players to whom this playing condition applies and the ages of such players.

Responsibility of Captains and Umpires

(a) It is the responsibility of the captains and umpires to ensure this playing condition is upheld.

(b) Where umpires become aware of breaches of this playing condition they are to direct the captain to take the bowler off forthwith and if an over is in progress another bowler is to complete the over. That bowler must not have bowled the previous over, and shall not bowl the subsequent over.

(c) Should a dispute or uncertainty regarding the application of this playing condition occur during play the umpires (or if no official umpires are appointed, the captains) shall make the final decision on its application based on information available from the scorers or other sources.

Penalties Penalties for bowling in excess of the number of overs permitted per spell or for daily limits by underage players regardless of the competition level shall be determined by the Executive Council.

A match shall be played under this rule when two days and no reserve day is fixtured.

The overs to be bowled for the match and on each day of play (the Over Requirement) shall be:

i) 160 overs per match with an Over Requirement of 80 overs per day for Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A, B, C & D Turf and MacGibbon Shield, Burt Shield, Menzies & Mackay Shield and A Synthetic;

ii) 144 overs per match with an Over Requirement of 72 overs per day for all remaining grades expect grades who played regular season matches under Rule 4A.

iii) 120 overs per match and 60 overs per day for grades who played regular season matches under Rule 4A.

At the end of any innings an uncompleted over shall count as a completed over. Under no circumstances can more than the Over Requirement (or Revised Over Requirement as per Rule 4.7) for a match be bowled. Once the Over Requirement (or Revised Over Requirement as per Rule 4.7) for the match has been bowled the match shall end regardless of time.

There shall be no over reduction for change of innings.

Should play on Day One not commence within 90 minutes of the scheduled commencement of play (by 2.00pm for a 12:30pm start) or a minimum of 20 overs have not been bowled on Day One for whatever reason then that days play shall be cancelled and any scores/performances be declared null and void. The game shall then be played as a one day game under Rule 5 on Day Two and a new toss made.

An over shall always be started if time has not been reached and shall be completed irrespective of the fall of wickets. The over shall be deemed to have started as soon as the umpires are in position.

A result has been reached when a team leads on the first innings, however at the request of either captain, play may continue to the end of the scheduled second days play to allow for an outright result to be reached.

Where a first innings result has been reached (win or tie) or it appears that the result of the match will be a draw and where both captains agree, play may cease prior to the scheduled time to end the match. Any team or captain that fails to comply The Spirit of Cricket and/or Laws of Cricket when applying this rule shall be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit.

Ordinary conditions means there is no compulsory closure for Team A and play will cease at 6:00pm on Day Two, irrespective of the numbers of overs bowled.

For Semi-finals and final matches these rules will be amended as per Rule 4.13.

A refreshment break of 20 minutes shall be taken at 3:10pm on each day.

If however:

• a wicket falls less than 3 minutes before the scheduled break the refreshment break shall commence immediately;
• an innings terminates or there is any suspension of play due to weather conditions within 30 minutes of the scheduled tea break, it shall be taken immediately;
• 9 wickets have fallen or any imminent compulsory closure, the refreshment break shall be postponed for a period not exceeding 30 minutes or until the innings is concluded.

The refreshment break shall be for a period of 20 minutes, regardless of the actual starting time of the break.

The match shall commence at 12:30pm on Day One. Team A, if it is not dismissed and regardless of time, shall have its innings compulsorily closed after the Over Requirement for the day has been bowled.

If no time has been lost on either day and Team A (on Day 1) or Team B (on Day 2) is still batting in their first innings at 6:00pm (160 over match), 5.30pm (144 over match) or 4.50pm (120 over match) on their respective day and their Over Requirement has not been bowled, the batting team will continue batting until the Over Requirement has been bowled. Official umpires, if appointed to the match, shall issue a Caution to the captain of the bowling team in accordance with Rule 12.4. If no official umpire is appointed to the match, the club secretary or president of the batting team shall advise the Operations Manager within 24 hours of the completion of the match to report the incident. The Executive Council to impose the following penalties for failing to bowl the Over Requirement:

In the current season for the bowling team

Play shall commence at 12:30pm on Day Two. Team B, if it is not dismissed and regardless of time, shall be entitled to bat for their Over Requirement whereupon the match shall end.

On Day One, should the innings of Team A be completed either by dismissal or declaration prior to the completion of the Over Requirement then Team B must bat, regardless of time, for the remainder of the Over Requirement on Day One (subject to rule 4.1.4). On Day Two, Team B, if it is not dismissed and regardless of time, shall be entitled to bat for their Over Requirement, whereupon the match shall end.

For Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield and Burt Shield, where an official umpire has been appointed by the Association, the bowling of fast short-pitched deliveries above shoulder height of the striker will be treated as follows:

a) A bowler shall be limited to two (2) fast short pitched deliveries per over. A fast short pitched ball is defined as one which passes or would have passed above shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. The umpire at the bowler’s end shall advise the bowler, fielding captain and the batsman on strike when each fast short pitched delivery has been bowled.

b) Should a third such delivery be bowled in an over, either umpire shall call and signal No Ball and caution the bowler in accordance with Law 41.6;

c) If the bowler is “No Balled” for the same offence a second time in the innings, the final warning and removal procedures of Law 41.6 shall be applied.

d) Any fast short pitched delivery, not being a No Ball otherwise, which passes so high that it is not sufficiently within the striker’s reach for it to be hit by the bat with a normal cricket stroke, shall be called and signalled Wide by the umpire at the bowler’s end.

Should play on Day One be delayed after play has commenced or interrupted between 1 and 29 minutes (inclusive) there shall be no reduction in the Over Requirement to be bowled on Day One or Day Two. Play shall continue until the Over Requirement has been bowled on Day One. The game is not in ordinary conditions.

Should play on Day One be delayed or interrupted after play has commenced between 30 to 59 minutes (inclusive), play will continue to 6:30pm in an attempt to have the Over Requirement bowled on Day One. Under no circumstances can an over commence after 6:30pm. For the purposes of determining the time lost, the time to be used for the close of play in such circumstances will be 6.00pm

Should less than the Over Requirement be bowled on Day One then play on Day Two will commence at a Revised Start Time. The remaining overs from Day One will be bowled on Day Two in addition to the Over Requirement to be bowled on Day Two. The game is not in ordinary conditions.

At the conclusion of Day One, should less than the Over Requirement be bowled, the umpires (or in their absence the captains of both teams), shall calculate the Revised Start Time on Day Two based on the following table:

Revised starting timed for day two if between 30-59 minutes is lost on day one

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Should it be necessary to have a Revised Start Time on Day Two under this rule the following shall apply:

a) if Team A is batting at the close of play on Day One and has not received its Over Requirement, then Team A will commence batting at the Revised Start Time on Day Two and have its innings compulsorily closed after the Over Requirement has been bowled to Team A. Team B, if it is not dismissed and regardless of time, shall be entitled to bat for their Over Requirement whereupon the match shall end.

b) if Team B is batting at the close of play on Day One and the Over Requirement has not been bowled on Day One, then Team B will commence batting at the Revised Start Time on Day Two and be entitled, if it is not dismissed and regardless of time, to bat for the overs still to be bowled from Day One AND for the Over Requirement on Day Two, whereupon the match shall end.

c) if both teams have completed a first innings by the close of play on Day One, play will commence at the Revised Start Time on Day Two and continue, regardless of time, until the overs still to be bowled from Day One are bowled AND for the Over Requirement on Day Two is bowled, whereupon the match shall end.

Should play on Day One be interrupted for 60 minutes or more after play has commenced, play will continue to 6:30pm irrespective of the number of overs bowled. On Day One under no circumstances can an over commence after 6:30pm. Play shall commence at 12.00pm on Day Two and the following shall apply (subject to rule 4.8):

a) If Team A is batting at the close of play on Day One and has not received its Day one Over Requirement (or Revised Over Requirement as per Rule 4.7), Team A can continue its innings. The innings of Team A will be completed, if it is not all out or declared, by compulsory closure once the Day One Over Requirement of Team A has been bowled. Team B shall then be entitled to bat for the remainder of Day Two up to the maximum Over Requirement (or Revised Over Requirement as per Rule 4.7) for the match. The number of overs to be received by Team B shall be calculated as follows (Day Two adjusted overs): The time remaining from the start of Team B’s innings to 6:00pm, excluding any time for any scheduled tea intervals, shall be divided by 3.5 (see ready reckoner). Subject to rule 4.1.3, the resulting number, rounded upwards, shall be the maximum overs to be bowled between the start of Team B’s innings and 6:00pm and Play may continue after 6.00pm to fulfil the Day Two adjusted overs.

b) Subject to Rule 4.1.3, if Team B is batting at the close of play on Day One or if Team A declares before play on day 2, Team B shall be entitled, if it is not dismissed and regardless of time, to bat for the overs as applicable below, whereupon the match shall end.

i) in a 160 over match: 90 overs

ii) in a 144 over match: 82 overs

iii) in a 120 over match: 70 overs

For the purposes of determining the time lost, the time to be used for the close of play in such circumstances will be 6.00pm

The result of the match will be a draw unless Team B has, by the end the match:

i) Passed Team A’s first innings total; or

ii) Been dismissed or.

iii) Has received at least the number of overs equal the Over Requirement of Team A from day 1

Should play on Day One commence after 12:30pm but before 2:00pm the Revised Number of Overs for the match and Over Requirement for each day of play will be calculated as follows:

Revised number of overs for match and over requirement if match commences after 12:30pm and before 2:00pm on day one (New start time)

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The match shall commence at the New Start Time on Day One. The match shall then be played in accordance with rules 4.3 to 4.6. The Revised Number of Overs for the match and Revised Over Requirement for each day of play, as detailed in the above table, will become the Revised Number of Overs for the match and Revised Over Requirement for each day of play. The match is not in ordinary conditions.

If at the conclusion of the Over Requirement for Day 1, a small number of runs are required or wickets to be taken to win the match and both captains wish to continue playing in order to achieve a definite result on that day, play will continue until either the match concludes or the players have cause to leave the field for any reason.

If the match is delayed or interrupted for a total of between 1 to 59 minutes (inclusive) on Day Two, either at the start of Day Two or during Day Two, there shall be no reduction to the number of overs required to be bowled on Day Two (as calculated at the end of Day One). Play shall continue on Day 2, if necessary (weather and light permitting), after 6.00pm to achieve either the completion of the required number of overs or a result is achieved. Play will cease when either of these events occur.

If the match is delayed or interrupted for a total of 60 minutes or more on Day 2 (either at the start of Day 2 or during Day 2), the time remaining from either the beginning of play (whenever that is), the commencement of an innings or other resumption during the days play to 6.00pm excluding any time for any scheduled tea interval, shall be divided by 3.5 (see ready reckoner). The resulting number, rounded upwards, shall be the minimum adjusted overs to be bowled between the start or resumption of play and 6.00pm. If necessary, the adjusted overs to be bowled shall be amended for any further delays or interruptions in play or change of innings. Play shall continue, if necessary (weather and light permitting) after 6.00pm to achieve the completion of the adjusted overs. The match result will be a draw UNLESS Team B has received it’s agreed over entitlement by 6.00pm, or later to achieve the minimum adjusted overs, or it is dismissed or has passed Team A’s score.

Should play on Day One be interrupted at or after 6:30pm due to adverse conditions, no further play will take place.

i) Should 10 overs or less still need to be bowled on Day One, then play on Day Two will commence at a Revised Start Time and the remaining overs from Day One will be bowled on Day Two in addition to the Over Requirement to be bowled on Day Two. If necessary, an uncompleted over at the end of Day One shall be completed at the start of Day Two. The game is not in ordinary conditions. See Table in Rule 4.5.3 for Revised Start Times and Rule 4.5.4 for conditions to apply on Day Two.

ii) Should more than 10 overs still need to be to be bowled on Day One when no further play is possible on Day One, then play then play on Day Two will commence at 12.00pm and cease at 6.00pm, irrespective of the numbers of overs bowled. If necessary, an uncompleted over at the end of Day One shall be completed at the start of Day Two. The game is now in ordinary conditions.

iii) Should play on Day One be interrupted at or after 6:30pm no further play will take place.

Should play on Day Two be interrupted at or after 6:30pm due to adverse conditions, no further play will take place. The match result will be a draw UNLESS Team B has received it’s agreed over entitlement or it is dismissed or has passed Team A’s score.

If Team A leads by at least 80 runs, it shall have the option of requiring Team B to follow their innings.

When the match is not in ordinary conditions the team which has scored in its first innings, a total of runs in excess of that scored by the opposing team in its completed innings shall win the match.

When the match is in ordinary conditions Team B cannot lose the match unless dismissed for fewer runs than Team A by the scheduled time to end the match.

If both teams score an equal number of runs on the first innings, the result shall be a tie irrespective of wickets lost.

If at the conclusion of the Over Requirement for Day 1, a small number of runs are required or wickets to be taken to win the match and both captains wish to continue playing in order to achieve a definite result on that day, play will continue until either the match concludes or the players have cause to leave the field for any reason.

For an outright result the team which has scored a total of runs in excess of that scored in the two completed innings of the opposing team shall win the match.

(first innings result on Day One) On Day One where both teams have completed a first innings, other than by both being compulsorily closed (first innings result on Day One), play may continue on Day One until the Over Requirement for the day has been bowled (see also Rule 4.1.4). On Day Two play may continue until the Over Requirement for the day has been bowled. Play shall continue, if necessary (weather and light permitting) after 6.00pm to achieve the completion of the Over Requirement. There shall be no over reduction for change of innings.

(first innings result on Day Two) On Day Two where both teams have completed a first innings, other than by both being compulsorily closed (first innings result on Day Two), a calculation of the number of overs to be bowled to attempt to achieve an outright result shall be made. The time remaining from either the beginning of play (whenever that is), the commencement of an innings or other resumption during the days play to 6.00pm excluding any time for any scheduled tea interval, shall be divided by 3.5 (see ready reckoner). The resulting number, rounded upwards, shall be the maximum adjusted overs to be bowled between the start or resumption of play and 6.00pm. If necessary, the adjusted overs to be bowled shall be amended for any further delays or interruptions in play or change of innings. Play shall continue, if necessary (weather and light permitting) after 6.00pm to achieve the completion of the adjusted overs. The total overs bowled on the day shall not exceed the total overs allocated at the beginning of the days play whenever that is. Thus, any calculated maximum is to be adjusted down to meet this requirement

Example: At the start of the day 60 overs is the maximum, a side declares at 2 pm having faced 15 overs. There is 220 minutes left from 2pm (which includes a tea break) which calculates to 63 overs. However as 15 overs have already been bowled the maximum overs to be bowled can only be 45 overs.

Semi-final and finals matches shall be played in accordance with conditions outlined in this rule.

In any semi-final match when there is no result or a tied game or a drawn game, the team higher on the ladder at the end of the home-and-away matches shall be deemed to have won the match.

In any final match when there is no result or a drawn game, the team higher on the ladder at the end of the home-and-away matches shall be deemed to have won the match. When any final match is tied, the premiership shall be shared.

In any semi-final and final match, once a first innings result has been reached, and both captains agree there is no possibility of an outright result, the match shall thereupon end.

A match will be played under this Rule for grades nominated by the Executive before the start of the season and following consultation with clubs. All matches shall be played under Rule 4 except as amended by this section. The following time references in Rule 4 are amended: 5.00pm to 4.00pm, 5.30pm to 4.30pm, 6.00pm to 5.00pm, 6.15pm to 5.15pm and 6.30pm to 5.30pm.

The overs to be bowled for the match shall be 120 overs with 60 overs on each day of play (the Over Requirement).

Should play on Day One not commence within 90 minutes of the scheduled commencement of play (by 2:00pm for a 12:30pm start) or a minimum of 20 overs have not been bowled on Day One for whatever reason then that days play shall be cancelled and any scores/performances be declared null and void. The game shall then be played as a one day game under Rule 5A on Day Two and a new toss made.

Should play on Day One be delayed or interrupted between 1 and 59 minutes (inclusive) there shall be no reduction in the Over Requirement to be bowled on Day One or Day Two. Play shall continue until the Over Requirement has been bowled on Day One. The game is not in ordinary conditions. Rules 4.4 and 4.5 do not apply.

Should play on Day One commence after 12:30pm but before 2:00pm the Revised Number of Overs for the match and Over Requirement for each day of play will be calculated as follows:

Revised number of overs for match and over requirement if match commences after 12:30pm and before 2:00pm on day one (New start Time)

The match shall commence at the New Start Time on Day One. The match shall then be played in accordance with rule 4.3, 4A.2 and 4.6. Rules 4.4 and 4.5 will not apply. The Revised Number of Overs for the match and Revised Over Requirement for each day of play, as detailed in the above table, will become the Revised Number of Overs for the match and Revised Over Requirement for each day of play. The match is not in ordinary conditions.

A match shall be played under this rule when: -

one day only is set aside for play in a match; or

one day only is set aside for play in a particular grade(s); or

a one-day or Limited Over Competition is established (LOC); or

no play takes place on the first day of a two-day match.

One-Day matches in all grades shall commence at 12:30pm and, except as provided hereunder, cease at 6:00pm. If the match commences after 12:30pm but before 2:00pm, the maximum number of overs that each team is entitled to bat for is to be determined in the following way:

If the match has a delayed start for any reason and commences after 12:30pm, but prior to 2:00pm, the maximum number of oversthat each team is entitled to bat for is to be determined in the following way:

Recalculation of Overs (Delayed start: 12.31pm to 2.00pm)

Before the start of the game the Revised Number of Overs for each team/game should be agreed by the umpires or captains.

Play shall, if necessary, continue past 6:00pm weather and light permitting to allow the revised number of overs to be bowled (as calculated in Rule 5.2.2). The match result will be determined as per Rule 5.6

If the match commences after 2:00pm the innings of Team A, if not otherwise terminated, shall be compulsorily closed at the completion of 40 overs. However under no circumstances shall an over commence after 6:00pm and there is to be a 10 minute change over between any innings with no refreshment break. The result shall be a draw unless Team B has; passed Team A’s innings total or received their full over entitlement or been dismissed.

Where a reserve day has been allocated, the over reduction shall only apply if no play occurs on Day 1 of the match.

The refreshment break shall be for a period of 20 minutes, regardless of the actual starting time of the break.

The innings of Team A, if not otherwise terminated, shall be compulsorily closed at the completion of 40 overs subject to rule 5.2.2

If the innings of Team A is compulsorily closed, Team B, if it is not dismissed earlier, shall be entitled to bat for only the same number of overs as bowled to Team A, whereupon the match shall end.

If necessary play may continue beyond 6:00pm weather and light permitting.

The match shall conclude if play is not possible at or after 6:00pm due to weather or light conditions.

If Team A is dismissed or declares before it has received its full entitlement of overs, Team B, unless dismissed beforehand, shall be entitled to receive its full entitlement of overs.

The match shall conclude when a first innings decision has been reached.

No bowler shall be permitted to bowl more than 8 overs in any innings unless special provisions have been made. In the event of a bowler being unable to complete an over, the remaining balls will be allowed to be bowled by another bowler. Such part of an over will count as a full over in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.

For Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield, Burt Shield and McCarthy Shield a no ball leg side policy is to be applied by Umpires during any game played under this rule. Such policy will be released by the Executive before the start of any season.

Batters must retire immediately when their score reaches or passes the following:

For LOC 2, LOC 3, LOC 4 & LOC 5- 100 runs For LOC6 and Below -50 Runs

i) Runs scored in the shot that achieves any of these requirements shall count in full (so the maximum score would therefore be, either 105 or 55) and the batter will retire immediately the ball becomes dead.

ii) A batter or batters so retired may return to bat and continue to bat until dismissed once all other batters in the team have batted and been dismissed. Where more than one batter is retired under this rule they must return in the order they retired.

iii) No other batter may retire voluntarily once any batter has been retired under this rule. A retirement under this rule shall count as not out and be recorded in “” as “retired, not out.

For Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield and Burt Shield, and McCarthy Shield, where an official umpire has been appointed by the Association, the bowling of fast short-pitched deliveries above shoulder height of the striker will be treated as follows:

a) A bowler shall be limited to two (2) fast short pitched deliveries per over. A fast short pitched ball is defined as one which passes or would have passed above shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. The umpire at the bowler’s end shall advise the bowler, fielding captain and the batsman on strike when each fast short pitched delivery has been bowled.

b) Should a third such delivery be bowled in an over, either umpire shall call and signal No Ball and caution the bowler in accordance with Law 41.6;

c) If the bowler is “No Balled” for the same offence a second time in the innings, the final warning and removal procedures of Law 41.6 shall be applied.

d) Any fast short pitched delivery, not being a No Ball otherwise, which passes so high that it is not sufficiently within the striker’s reach for it to be hit by the bat with a normal cricket stroke, shall be called and signalled Wide by the umpire at the bowler’s end.

Area of Restriction The restricted area shall be the area around the pitch within semi-circles, one at each end, and straight lines, one at each side.

Semi-Circles and Line Measurements The radius of each semi-circle shall be 27.5 metres from the centre stump and the extremities of its base shall meet with the straight lines of pitch length, at points in line with the bowling crease. However such circle is to be no closer than 10m from any boundary and the circle shall be reduced to meet this requirement.

Marking of Area Limits The limits of the restricted area shall be clearly marked by a white line, white markings or by white discs. The markings or discs shall be 30 in number and be approximately 7 metres apart with one marking or disc at each extremity of the bases of the semi-circles.

Fielders within restricted area

(a) Until the ball is delivered no more than 2 fielders shall be outside the restricted area during the first 10 overs of an uninterrupted innings. From overs 11-15, until the ball is delivered,no more 3 fielders shall be outside the restricted area.

(b) If the number of overs is adjusted because of adverse conditions during the innings of the side batting first to less than 38 overs, the overs subject to the restriction shall be as follows:-

(c) For the remaining overs to which (a) or (b) do not apply, no more than 5 fielders shall be outside the restricted area.

(d) Any restrictions implemented in accordance with this rule shall apply in both innings and shall not be changed for any later reduction of either side’s overs.

i) In the event of an infringement of any of the above fielding restrictions, only the official appointed umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’. If there are two official appointed umpires either umpire can call and signal ‘No Ball’.

ii) Failure to the mark the ground shall be reported by the umpire(s) or either competing club to the Operations Manager by 8pm on the Monday following the incident. The Executive Council will then determine what penalty, if any, to impose on the club.

The team scoring the greater number of runs on the first innings, regardless of wickets lost, shall be the winner except where play is interrupted by weather or light conditions as detailed in this rule.

If both sides score an equal number of runs, the result shall be a tie irrespective of wickets lost.

Interruption between 1 to 59 minutes (inclusive) If the match is interrupted for a total of between 1 to 59 minutes (inclusive) once the match has commenced, there shall be no reduction in the number of overs to be bowled (as calculated at the start of play). Play shall, if necessary, continue past 6:00pm conditions permitting.

Interruption 60 minutes or more (inclusive) If the match is interrupted for a total of 60 minutes or more, once the match has commenced, the time remaining from the resumption of play to 6.00pm excluding any time for any scheduled tea interval, shall be divided by 3.5 (see ready reckoner). The resulting number, rounded upwards, shall be the minimum adjusted overs to be bowled between the resumption of play and 6.00pm. If necessary, the adjusted overs to be bowled shall be amended for any further delays or interruptions in play. Play shall continue, if necessary (weather and light permitting) after 6.00pm to achieve the completion of the adjusted overs. The match result will be a draw UNLESS Team B has received the over entitlement of Team A by the end of the minimum adjusted overs or 6pm whichever is the greater, or it is dismissed or has passed Team A’s score.

Interruption to play after 6.00pm If the match is interrupted after 6:00pm the match will cease and the game will be a draw.

Semi-final and final matches shall be played in accordance with the conditions outlined in this rule except as here under amended.

A reserve day/s may be fixtured for all semi-final and final matches should no play take place on the scheduled day.

Where a reserve day(s) has been fixtured:

i) and the match commences on any day of play between 12.31pm and 2.00pm (except on the only or last available reserve day) there will be no reduction in the overs to be bowled in the match.

If the match cannot commence by 2.00pm on the scheduled day (or reserve day/s), the available reserve day/s will be used.

If the number of overs to be bowled in the match have not been bowled for any reason by the end of any days play, and a decision has not been reached, then play shall continue on a reserve day/s until a decision has been reached or the allocated overs have been bowled. Play on any reserve day/s will commence at 12.30pm.

ii) Rule 5.2.2, 5.2.3, 5.2.4 and 5.2.5 (delayed start to matches/revised number of overs for match): will apply on the last available day when no play has been possible on the scheduled day (or other reserve day/s).

iii) the reference to “match shall conclude” in Rule 5.4.4 means that play on that day shall conclude if play is not possible at or after 6.00pm due to weather or light conditions.

iv) Rule 5.7 is to be replaced with:

If the match is interrupted for any reason once the match has commenced, there shall be no reduction in the number of overs to be bowled in the match (as determined at the start of play). Play shall, if necessary, continue past 6:00pm conditions permitting on any day. Play for the day shall conclude if play is not possible at or after 6.00pm due to weather or light conditions.

If the match is interrupted for any reason once the match has commenced and the number of overs to be bowled in the match have not been bowled for any reason by 7.00pm on the last available day of play (ie. no reserve days available for play to continue) and a decision has not been reached, the match result shall be a draw.

In any semi final match where there is no decision, the team higher on the ladder at the end of the home-and-away matches shall be deemed to have won the match.

In any final match where there is no decision, the team higher on the ladder at the end of the home-and-away matches shall be deemed to have won the match. However, when the match is tied, the premiership shall be shared.

Where a Reserve Day(s) has been allocated and if at the conclusion of the Over Requirement for Day 1, or any subsequent day(s) not being the last day, a small number of runs are required or wickets to be taken to win the match and both captains wish to continue playing in order to achieve a definite result on that day,play will continue until either the match concludes or the players have cause to leave the field for any reason

A match will be played under this Rule for grades nominated by the Executive before the start of the season and following consultation with clubs. All matches shall be played under Rule 5 except as amended by this section. The references in Rule 5 to 40 overs shall be amended to 36 overs.

A match shall be played under this rule when: -

• one day only is set aside for play in a match in grades that have 60 Over Requirements for a two-day match; or
• a one-day or Limited Over Competition is established (LOC) grades nominated by the Executive before the commencement of the season.; or
• no play takes place on the first day of a two-day match in grades that have 60 Over Requirements for a two-day match.

One bowler shall be permitted to bowl 8 overs in any innings. All other bowlers cannot bowl any more than 7 overs. In the event of a bowler being unable to complete an over, the remaining balls will be allowed to be bowled by another bowler. Such part of an over will count as a full over in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.

All One-Day Matches under this rule will be played under the following requirements: i)The Bowling side will bowl overs in six (6) over lots from each end until the last set of overs where it will 5 overs.

ii) At the completion of each over lot, the bowling side shall change end.

iii) At the completion of each over, which is NOT a change of ends, the two (2) batters will switch ends.

The bowling side will bowl overs in six (6) over lots from each end

A match will be played under this Rule for grades or games nominated by the Executive. All matches shall be played under Rule 5 except as amended by this section. The references in Rule 5 to 40 overs shall be amended to 50 overs.

A match may be played under this rule when: -

• one day only is set aside for play in a match in grades that have 80 Over Requirements for a two-day match; or
• a one-day or Limited Over Competition is established (LOC) grades nominated by the Executive before the commencement of the season.; or
• no play takes place on the first day of a two-day match in grades that have 80 Over Requirements for a two-day match.

The amendments to Rule 5 for this rule are as follows:

a) Hours of play: 12:30pm to read 11:30am, 2:00pm will read 1:00pm

b) If the match has a delayed start for any reason and commences after 11:30 am, but prior to 1:00pm, the maximum number of overs that each team is entitled to bat for is to be determined in the following way:

Rule 5B - Recalculation of Overs (Delayed start: 11.31am to 1.00pm)

Before the start of the game the Revised Number of Overs for each team/game should be agreed by the umpires or captains.

(c) No bowler shall be permitted to bowl more than 10 overs in an innings.

(d) Adjusted overs (if less than 48 overs) (Fielders within restricted area) as per Rule 5.5.4(b).

When a match is set aside for play as a “Full-Day” match it shall be played under the following conditions.

Full-Day matches shall commence at 10:00 am, and, except as provided hereunder, cease at 6:00pm.

If the match has a delayed start for any reason and commences after 10:00 am, but prior to 12:00pm, the maximum number of overs that each team is entitled to bat for is to be determined in the following way:

Rule 6 - Recalculation of Overs (Delayed start: 10.01am to 12.00pm)

Before the start of the game the Revised Number of Overs for each team/game should be agreed by the umpires or captains.

If, due to weather or ground conditions, the match does not commence before 12:00 noon, the match shall be played as a “One-Day” match under rule 5 commencing at 12:30pm.

Play shall, if necessary, continue past 6:00pm weather and light permitting.

The refreshment break shall be for a period of 20 minutes, regardless of the actual starting time of the break.

A second interval for refreshments of 20 minutes duration shall take place at 3:20pm.

The innings of Team A, if not otherwise terminated, shall be compulsorily closed at the completion of 60 overs.

If the innings of Team A is compulsorily closed, Team B, if it is not earlier dismissed, shall be entitled to bat for only the same number of overs as bowled to Team A, whereupon the match shall end.

If necessary play may continue beyond 6:00pm weather and light permitting.

The match shall conclude if play is not possible at or after 6:00pm due to weather or light conditions.

If Team A is dismissed or declares before it has received its full 60 overs, Team B, unless dismissed beforehand, shall be entitled to receive its full 60 overs.

If a first innings decision is obtained at or after 5:50pm but before the time of compulsory closure of the innings of Team B, the match shall thereupon end.

Where both teams have completed a first innings, other than by both being compulsorily closed, the match may continue until 6:00pm to allow for an outright result to be reached. For an outright result the team which has scored a total of runs in excess of that scored in the two completed innings of the opposing team shall win the match.

No bowler shall be permitted to bowl more than 15 overs in any innings.

Over reduction calculation when time lost Where playing time is lost during the innings of Team A their minimum over requirement shall be reduced by 1 over for each 3.5 minutes of time lost or part thereof. (see ready reckoner in fixtures book).

For Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield and Burt Shield, where an official umpire has been appointed by the Association, the bowling of fast short-pitched deliveries above shoulder height of the striker will be treated as follows:

a) A bowler shall be limited to two (2) fast short pitched deliveries per over. A fast short pitched ball is defined as one which passes or would have passed above shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. The umpire at the bowler’s end shall advise the bowler, fielding captain and the batsman on strike when each fast short pitched delivery has been bowled.

b) Should a third such delivery be bowled in an over, either umpire shall call and signal No Ball and caution the bowler in accordance with Law 41.6;

c) If the bowler is “No Balled” for the same offence a second time in the innings, the final warning and removal procedures of Law 41.6 shall be applied.

d) Any fast short pitched delivery, not being a No Ball otherwise, which passes so high that it is not sufficiently within the striker’s reach for it to be hit by the bat with a normal cricket stroke, shall be called and signalled Wide by the umpire at the bowler’s end.

If Team A leads by at least 70 runs, it shall have the option of requiring Team B to follow their innings.

The team scoring the greater number of runs on the first innings, regardless of wickets lost, shall be the winner (unless an outright result is achieved) except where play is interrupted by weather or light conditions as detailed in this rule.

If both sides score an equal number of runs, the result shall be a tie irrespective of wicketslost.

In any semi-final or final match where there is no decision; the team higher on the ladder at the end of the home-andaway matches shall be deemed to have won the match. When any final match is tied, the premiership shall be shared.

Team A innings – interrupted by less than 70 minutes If the match is interrupted during the innings of Team A for a total of less than 70 minutes then the minimum number of overs to be bowled to both teams shall be reduced as per Rule 6.4.9.

Team A innings – interrupted by more than 70 minutes If the match is interrupted for more than 70 minutes by adverse conditions during the first innings of Team A the innings of Team A shall be compulsorily closed at the completion of 60 Overs. Team B shall be entitled to bat for the remainder of the day. The number of overs to be received by Team B shall be calculated as follows: The time remaining from start of Team B’s innings to 6:00pm, excluding any time for any scheduled tea and lunch intervals, shall be divided by 3.5 (see ready reckoner). The resulting number, rounded upwards, shall be the maximum adjusted overs to be bowled between start of Team B’s innings of play and 6:00pm. Play may continue after 6.00pm to fulfil the overs required.

Team B innings – interruption by 70 minutes or more If the match is interrupted for 70 minutes or more by adverse conditions during the first innings of Team B, the match shall continue until 6:00pm with the match drawn unless Team B has:

• passed Team A's 1st innings total or
• received their full over entitlement or
• been dismissed.

Under no circumstances can an over commence after 6:00pm

Interruption to play after 6.00pm If the match is interrupted after 6:00pm by adverse conditions during the first innings of Team B the match will be a draw unless Team B has;

• passed Team A’s 1st innings total or
• received their full over entitlement or
• been dismissed

Where a first innings decision has been reached, and where both captains agree, play may cease prior to the scheduled time.

The over requirement to be bowled for the match and each day of play, within this rule shall be:

i) 160 overs per match with an Over Requirement of 80 overs per day for Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A, B, C & D Turf and MacGibbon Shield, Burt Shield , Menzie & Mackay Shield; and

ii) 144 overs per match with an Over Requirement of 72 overs per day for all remaining grades expect grades who played regular season matches under Rule 4A.

iii) 120 overs per match and 60 overs per day for grades who played regular season matches under Rule 4A.

Final matches, of required overs per match, defined within rule 7.1, shall be played over two days. Play may be extended to a third or fouth day [reserve days] if a first innings decision has not been reached and all overs have not been bowled.

ONE RESERVE DAY AVAILABLE - Should play on the first two days be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason, and there is only one reserve day, the match shall be played on the reserve day under Rule 6. Should play on Day one be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason, and there is only one reserve day, the match shall be played on Day two and the reserve day (as a two day match) under Rule 4.

TWO RESERVE DAYS AVAILABLE - Should play on the first two days and first reserve day be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason, and there are two reserve days, the match shall be played on the second reserve day under Rule 6. Should play on Day one and two be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason, and there are two reserve days, the match shall be played on the two reserve days (as a two day match) under Rule 4. When no play occurs on Day one and two and play is abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason on the first reserve day (day 3), the match shall be played on the second reserve day (day 4) under Rule 6.

THREE OR MORE RESERVE DAYS AVAILABLE -

Should play on Day one and two, and any following reserve day, be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason, and there are two reserve days remaining, the match shall be played on those two reserve days (as a two day match) under Rule 4.

Should play on the first two days and each of the reserve days, prior to the last reserve day, be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason, and there are three or more reserve days, the match shall be played on the last reserve day under Rule 6.

On each day, a match shall commence at 12:30pm and continue until the completion of required overs per day, defined within rule 7.1, irrespective of wickets lost or change of innings and regardless of time. If at the conclusion of day one (1) the required overs per day defined within rule 7.1 have not been bowled, the remaining overs can be bowled on day two (2) weather and light permitting.

If the match is delayed or interrupted on any day the number of overs to be bowled on that day shall be reduced by one (1) over for each 3.5 minutes of lost time. However if conditions permit, play may continue past 6:00pm on any day up to a maximum of 45 minutes to make up lost time. The last over of play must commence before 6:45pm. If at the conclusion of the over that commenced before 6:45pm, a small number of runs are required to win the match and both captains wish to continue playing in order to achieve a definite result on that day, play will continue until either the match concludes or the players have cause to leave the field for any reason.

Play shall cease for the day if it be interrupted by adverse weather conditions at or after 6:45pm.

An over shall always be started if time has not been reached and shall be completed irrespective of the fall of wickets. The over shall be deemed to have started as soon as the umpires are in position.

If the required overs per day, defined within rule 7.1, have not been bowled on day one or two, play on day two, three or four (if required) will commence up to 60 minutes before the scheduled starting time for play to allow for any overs not bowled on day one, up to a maximum of 17 overs, to be bowled (to make up as much lost time as possible). If there is an early start on any day of play, the time for the refreshment break (tea break) will be adjusted backwards (from 3:10pm) by the amount of time of the early start.

The refreshment break shall be for a period of 20 minutes, regardless of the actual starting time of the break.

A refreshment break of 20 minutes shall be taken at 3:10pm on each day (subject to any early starts.

If however:

• a wicket falls less than 3 minutes before the scheduled interval the refreshment intervalshall commence immediately;
• an innings terminates or there is any suspension of play due to weather conditions within 30 minutes of the scheduled interval, it shall be taken immediately;
• 9 wickets have fallen or any imminent compulsory closure, the interval shall be postponed for a period not exceeding 30 minutes or until the innings is concluded.

Team A, if it is not dismissed, shall have its innings compulsorily closed once the required overs per day, defined within rule 7.1, have been bowled.

Team B, if it is not dismissed, shall be entitled to bat for the required overs per day, defined within rule 7.1, whereupon the match shall end.

Should the innings of Team A be completed either by dismissal or declaration prior to the completion of their required overs, then Team B shall bat for the remainder of the allocated overs on Day one, subject to conditions.

If the allocated overs have not been bowled for any reason by the end of the second day’s play, and a decision has not been reached, then play shall continue on the third day until a decision has been reached or these overs bowled.

An uncompleted over shall count as a completed over in the total of required overs for the match, defined within rule 7.1.

There shall be no over reduction for change of innings.

For Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield and Burt Shield, where an official umpire has been appointed by the Association, the bowling of fast short-pitched deliveries above shoulder height of the striker will be treated as follows:

a) A bowler shall be limited to two (2) fast short pitched deliveries per over. A fast short pitched ball is defined as one which passes or would have passed above shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. The umpire at the bowler’s end shall advise the bowler, fielding captain and the batsman on strike when each fast short pitched delivery has been bowled.

b) Should a third such delivery be bowled in an over, either umpire shall call and signal No Ball and caution the bowler in accordance with Law 41.6;

c) If the bowler is “No Balled” for the same offence a second time in the innings, the final warning and removal procedures of Law 41.6 shall be applied.

d) Any fast short pitched delivery, not being a No Ball otherwise, which passes so high that it is not sufficiently within the striker’s reach for it to be hit by the bat with a normal cricket stroke, shall be called and signalled Wide by the umpire at the bowler’s end.

Team A leads by at least 100 runs, it shall have the option of requiring Team B to follow their innings.

Under no circumstances can a reserve day be used to achieve an outright result irrespective of the number of overs bowled in the match.

A result has been reached when a team leads on the first innings, however at the request of either captain, play may continue to the end of the scheduled second day’s play to allow for an outright result to be reached.

If both teams score an equal number of runs in their first innings, the result shall be a tie irrespective of wickets lost.

In any semi-final or final match where there is no decision; the team higher on the ladder at the end of the home-and-away matches shall be deemed to have won the match. When any grand final match is tied, the premiership shall be shared.

If at the conclusion of the Over Requirement for Day 1, or any subsequent day(s) not being the last day, a small number of runs are required or wickets to be taken to win the match and both captains wish to continue playing in order to achieve a definite result on that day, play will continue until either the match concludes or the players have cause to leave the field for any reason.

Final matches of 240 overs shall be played over three days. Play may be extended to a fourth [reserve] day if a decision has not been reached and all overs have not been bowled.

Should play on the first two days be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason the match shall be played on the third and fourth days as a “two day game” under rule 4.

Should play on the first three days be abandoned without a ball being bowled for any reason the match shall be played on the fourth day as a “one day game” under rule 5 on the reserve day subject to conditions outlined in rule 5.7.

On each day matches shall commence at 12:30pm and continue until the completion of 80 overs, irrespective of wickets lost or change of innings.

If the match be delayed or interrupted on any day the minimum number of overs to be bowled that day shall be reduced by one (1) over for each 3.5 minutes of lost time.

Play shall cease for the day if it be interrupted by adverse weather conditions at or after 6:00pm.

An over shall always be started if time has not been reached and shall be completed irrespective of the fall of wickets. The over shall be deemed to have started as soon as the umpires are in position.

A interval of 20 minutes shall be taken at 2:50 3:10pm on each day unless daylight savings is still applicable then the interval will be at 2:50pm If, however;

• a wicket falls less than 3 minutes before the scheduled interval then the interval shall be commence immediately;
• an innings terminates or there is any suspension of play due to weather conditions within 30 minutes of the scheduled interval it shall be taken immediately;
• 9 wickets have fallen or any imminent compulsory closure, the interval shall be postponed for a period not exceeding 30 minutes or until the innings is concluded.

The refreshment break shall be for a period of 20 minutes, regardless of the actual starting time of the break.

Team A, if it is not dismissed, shall have its innings closed after 120 overs have been bowled.

Team B, if it is not dismissed, shall be entitled to bat for 120 overs whereupon the match shall end.

Should the innings of Team A be completed either by dismissal or declaration prior to the completion of 120 overs then Team B shall be entitled to bat for the remainder of the 240 overs.

If the 240 allocated overs have not been bowled for any reason by the end of the third day’s play, and a decision has not been reached, then play shall continue on the fourth day until a decision has been reached or these overs bowled.

An uncompleted over shall count as a completed over in the total of 240 overs.

There shall be no over reduction for change of innings.

A new ball may be taken at the completion of 80 overs in any innings.

For Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield and Burt Shield, where an official umpire has been appointed by the Association, the bowling of fast short-pitched deliveries above shoulder height of the striker will be treated as follows:

a) A bowler shall be limited to two (2) fast short pitched deliveries per over. A fast short pitched ball is defined as one which passes or would have passed above shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. The umpire at the bowler’s end shall advise the bowler, fielding captain and the batsman on strike when each fast short pitched delivery has been bowled.

b) Should a third such delivery be bowled in an over, either umpire shall call and signal No Ball and caution the bowler in accordance with Law 41.6;

c) If the bowler is “No Balled” for the same offence a second time in the innings, the final warning and removal procedures of Law 41.6 shall be applied.

d) Any fast short pitched delivery, not being a No Ball otherwise, which passes so high that it is not sufficiently within the striker’s reach for it to be hit by the bat with a normal cricket stroke, shall be called and signalled Wide by the umpire at the bowler’s end.

Team A leads by at least 100 runs, it shall have the option of requiring Team B to follow their innings.

A decision has been reached when a team leads on the first innings, however at the request of either captain, play may continue to the end of the scheduled third day’s play to allow for an outright result to be reached.

If both teams score an equal number of runs in their first innings, the result shall be a tie irrespective of wickets lost.

In any final match where there is no decision; the team higher on the ladder at the end of the home-and-away matches shall be deemed to have won the match. When any grand final match is tied, the premiership shall be shared.

If at the conclusion of the Over Requirement for Day 1, or any subsequent day(s) not being the last day, a small number of runs are required or wickets to be taken to win the match and both captains wish to continue playing in order to achieve a definite result on that day, play will continue until either the match concludes or the players have cause to leave the field for any reason

For all matches in all Grades the designated home team will make available a device suitable to electronically score the game. Currently the PlayHQ App is the recommended platform. To assist with this, every team must be entered into the system before the game commences.

(I) Unless otherwise agreed to, it will be the home team who is responsible to ensure the device is continually used through the match. The away team side shall utilise the manual scorebook (can also electronically score as well). Whilst the preferred option is to live score the match as it evolves, however as a minimum expectation is that at each break in play, a progressive game score will be uploaded using the E Scoring format.

(II) It will be the responsibility of both the batting and bowling teams to ensure that the device and the manual scorebook are continuously used and updated throughout the match.

All teams shall use the Association scorebook.

At the end of the match both captains are to ensure their players names, as listed on the team sheet or agreed during the match, are recorded within the Competition Management Platform.

During the progress of each match, each team shall ensure the detailed scores and bowling analyses of the days play and the times of starting and finishing play on each day have been noted.

At the conclusion of each innings and each day’s play, the professional umpires and both captains shall ensure that details of time lost due to any unscheduled cessation of play for any reason whatsoever have been recorded.

The captains and any official umpires shall ensure the scoring devices are completed and correct at the end of each day of play.

If a club(s) is/are found to contravene any of Rules 9.1.1 to 9.1.7 inclusive, it may result in disciplinary action being taken, including a fine of up to 4 penalty units.

In the case of a protest or dispute concerning the result of a match or the scores in a match, the captain of the protesting team shall, at the conclusion of the match, where possible, write in both score books “under protest”, noting briefly the reason for the protest or dispute and any claim for match points. Where one or both scorebooks are not available, for whatever reason, then Rules 9.2.4 and 9.2.5 must be strictly adhered to.

The official umpire shall impound both score books, where possible, and deliver them to the General Manager not later than 7:00pm on the Monday following the last day of the match. If no official umpire is in attendance at the match subject to disputed scores, each captain shall deliver his team’s score book, where possible to the General Manager by the time set out in the previous sentence subject to 9.2.1 above.

If the protest or dispute relates to a match in the last home and away match or a semi- final or final match is involved in a score dispute, the scorebooks, where possible, shall be delivered by 12:00 noon on the day after the completion of the match.

Notification of a protest, dispute or claim for match points shall be advised to the General Manager by 7:30pm on the final day of the match concerned.

Written confirmation of a protest, dispute or claim for match points shall also be received by the General Manager within 48 hours of the completion of the match.

Failure to adhere to the conditions outlined above will result in the protest or dispute lapsing and not being heard.

Team scores of each days play for both teams shall be entered on by the home team by 8.00pm on each match day. Note: for LOC games where Run Rates determine ladder positions when a team is dismissed you must enter the overs faced as the maximum overs to be bowled to that team.

Full scorecards of each days play shall be entered and confirmed on by each team by 8.00pm on Tuesday following each match day.

A team must advise the relevant grade secretary of any inaccuracies in the team scores or full scorecards. Such notification can be made by disputing the result on and must be made within 72 hours of the conclusion of the match.

Once a match has been approved by the ECA, the details contained therein shall be deemed to be correct and shall not be subject to any subsequent alterations unless approval is given by the ECA.

When a match is forfeited, abandoned without play commencing, a match report may be submitted listing no more than eleven registered (named) players who are eligible to be names and who have not participated in any other match for that day(s) and these players shall be deemed to have played in the match. Any such match report must be submitted within the specified time frames and no late reports will be accepted. The team impacted shall be responsible for the submission of any match report.

Progressive penalties shall be incurred for:

• failure to submit a team score or full scorecard on time, or submitting an incorrect or incomplete team score or full scorecard – 1 penalty unit, other than in the last round of home and away matches when the penalty shall be 2 penalty units
• failure to submit a team score or full scorecard within 7 days of the conclusion of the match – 2 further penalty units;
• further failures to submit a team score or full scorecard shall be dealt with by the Executive Council

When an official umpire has officiated during a match, the captain of each team shall complete the umpires performance report form on by no later than 8:00pm on the Monday after the conclusion of the match. The club of the captain failing to comply with this rule shall be fined 1 penalty unit. Should an assessment not be lodged a week after the match, a further fine of 4 penalty units is to be imposed and will continue for any subsequent weeks until the report is lodged.

The Umpires’ Manager or other assignee shall appoint official umpires to matches.

The Umpires’ Manager or other assignee shall have the ability to change an official umpire between days of play at their discretion.

Where only one official umpire is appointed to a match, that umpire shall officiate at the bowler’s end throughout the match.

If no official umpire is in attendance at a game, the two captains shall jointly decide on any matters usually attended to by official umpires.

An official umpire shall be at the ground at least 45 minutes before the scheduled starting time for the commencement of play each day. Any umpire persistently late may be fined a maximum of 2 penalty units.

If an official umpire is not in attendance at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled commencement of play, the batting team shall provide non-professional umpires, unless otherwise agreed by the respective captains.

The captain of the batting team may replace a non-official umpire from time to time, and is requested to ensure that such person is competent and capable.

A non-official umpire shall be at least 16 years of age.

A non-official umpire shall wear suitable distinguishing clothing. Singlets, thongs or bare feet are not permitted.

A club fielding one or two teams within this association shall nominate at least one competent and available person to the Umpires' Panel, from which appointments to semi-final and final matches will be made.

Clubs fielding three or more teams within this association shall nominate at least two such persons for this purpose.

Nominations in writing, stating contact details, shall be lodged with the Umpires' Manager or assignee no later than February 15 in each season.

Clubs that fail to make a nomination (s) or have a nominated person fail to accept an appointment to umpire shall be liable to a fine not exceeding the umpire's fee applicable to the particular season and for an umpire standing at both ends.

If the nominee who has been informed by the Umpire's Manager or assignee that they have been appointed to a finals match, is unable to keep the appointment, the Umpires' Manager or assignee is to be advised by the intended Umpire or the club secretary of the club that made the nomination, within 48 hours of such appointment of a replacement person acceptable to the Umpires' Officer or assignee. Failure to comply will incur a fine of 4 penalty units.

Match fees to be paid to official umpires shall be determined yearly at the Annual General Meeting. A Schedule of Umpire Match Fees as determined at the Annual General Meeting will be issued prior to the commencement of each season.

Each team, for each playing day, shall be responsible for payment of half the match fees paid to the umpires.

Match fees shall be paid to umpires by the ECA as early as practical following the completion of any designated day of play. Such match fee will be invoiced to clubs by the ECA following any designated day of play.

If no play takes place, an official umpire, if in attendance,shall be paid as per the Schedule of Umpire Match Fees in 10.6.1.

All professional umpires shall complete match reports on by 8:00pm on the Monday after the completion of the game.

Such report shall give special attention to the time of starting, state of the pitch and its surrounds, ground and boundaries, spirit of the match, etc.

Where the umpires are required to make a decision upon the state of any ground and pitch under these rules, they shall include in their report of the match full details of the circumstances under which such decision was made.

Where the umpires are required to make a decision upon the definition of boundaries under these rules, they shall include in their report of the match full details of the circumstances under which such decision was made.

A club shall ensure that its players are eligible to be registered.

Applications by clubs for registration of players are to be submitted electronically via the appropriate web site.

A player must be registered no later than 72 hours following the conclusion of the match in which the player first played or was named to play. If the match is the last home and away match the player must be registered no later than 24 hours following the conclusion of the match.

All registered players shall be deemed to have agreed to abide by The Laws of Cricket “The Spirit of Cricket” and the ECA Code of Behaviour.

It is the responsibility of the Club to ensure any players who have had their registration deactivated are-registered to play.

The Executive Council shall have power to reject, review or revoke any player registration at any time.

Clubs seeking registration of players in the senior competition who over the age of 12 years and under the age of 16 years as at 1 September in the year in which the season commences are to obtain a permit approval in the Competition Management Platform.

A registration under this rule remains valid for future seasons unless a declaration of acceptance, for a junior player to play senior cricket, is withdrawn in writing by a parent or guardian of the child.

A registration under this rule remains valid for future seasons unless a declaration of acceptance, for a junior player to play senior cricket, is withdrawn in writing by a parent or guardian of the child.

No player may play, be named to play or be allowed to enter the field of play during the scheduled hours of play, in any association match who:

i) is a suspended or disqualified player in this or any other cricket association; or

ii) is an unregistered player in this association (including where the registration application, of the player, has been refused or revoked)

A club who plays a player which contravenes rule 11.3.1 shall:

i) be fined 4 penalty units for each match in which the player played or was named, and

ii) be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit.

A team who plays or names a player which contravenes rule 11.3.1 shall: lose any matches in which such a player played or was named; and

i) lose any match points awarded in any matches in which such a player played or was named; and

ii) lose one match point for each match in which such a player played or was named; and

iii) have their scores deleted from the official records of the Association.

The opposition team who is impacted by a player who contravenes rule 11.3.1 shall: receive the maximum points awarded in that grade and round.

Any player who contravenes Rule 11.3.1 shall:

i) be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit, and

ii) have any played matches not count towards qualifications for semi-final or final matches, averages or association awards

Any player who submits themselves for registration with more than one club shall be dealt with by the Executive Council.

No player in this Association shall be permitted to play in any other Saturday afternoon cricket competition (Cricket Victoria Premier and Sub-District competition and school matches excepted) during the season without a permit from the Executive Council.

Where no game or a day’s play has been scheduled by any other cricket competitions, any player who last played within those competitions during the current season must seek and be granted permission from the Executive Council to play or be named to play within the ECA for that game or day of play, subject to rule 11.5.3.

Any club having a team or teams in any other association within the Victorian Metropolitan Cricket Union, Premier Cricket or Sub-District Cricket Association shall be permitted free interchange of players between these teams and any teams in this Association without permits, providing that such players are properly registered with this Association and comply with all rules governing player eligibility.

Any registered player with a club who wishes to move to another club in this Association, may do so by lodging an initial registration application in accordance with rule 11.1.1, provided they have not played or been named to play in any match for their original club in the current season.

Any player who has played or been named to play with a club in the current season and then wishes to move to another club in this Association in the same season shall first obtain a transfer approval in the Competition Management Platform from the club they are leaving before playing with their new club.

A player requesting a transfer shall be entitled to a reply from his club within 14 days from the date of application. Should a reply not be received within this time, the clearance shall be deemed to have been refused. Any player refused a clearance by his club shall have the right to appeal to the Executive Council who shall grant or reject the clearance.

A player wishing to register with a club in this Association following a transfer from another club within the Victorian Metropolitan Cricket Union during the current season shall first obtain transfer approval in the Competition Management Platform. Should such clearance not be obtained the player will be deemed to be unregistered.

Should a club or Association refuse a player’s application for a clearance, the player may appeal to the Victorian Metropolitan Cricket Union, whose decision shall be final.

A player may be granted a one time permit to fill in for a club, after this one game the player needs to be registered with that club. Failure in this will be dealt with by the Executive council.

All clubs must indicate on their team entry form their preferred team rankings. Such nominations shall be subject to ratification by the Executive Council. Nominations can be altered once team gradings are announced provided a written request is made to the Operations Manager no later than the second last weekend before the start of any season. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 2 penalty units.

If a permit is granted to a player under these Rules, that players club must inform their opposition club that a player is playing in the relevant match under a permit prior to the commencement of the match. Clubs failing to inform the opposition club prior to a match shall be dealt with by the Executive Council.

Any team with six or more players at the commencement time of play shall be entitled to request two substitutes from the opposing team. If a team has less than six players when 30 minutes has elapsed from the time set down for the commencement time of play it shall forfeit the match.

All substitutes shall be registered players of the Association. A player registered in the Junior Section shall be permitted under this rule, provided the player is over the age of 12 at 1 September in the year in which the season commences.

The fielding captain shall inform the opposition captain and the umpires of the names of the substitutes prior to their participation in the match. Failure to comply with rule shall incur a fine of 2 penalty units.

Points

The team make up may comprise any mix of players, provided the total number of points allocated does not exceed the maximum match points as defined in Rule 11.7.5.

Points Determination

At the commencement of a season, any Club that enters a team in either the Turf or Synthetic competition (excluding LOC) shall be required to submit a list of players proposed to compete in its first XI. This list shall comprise the players’ names, the season they commenced with the Club and Player type in accordance with the provisions of Rule 11.7.3. This list shall be submitted to the ECA at least 14 days prior to the first match. Clubs shall be solely responsible for the categories allocated, however in the event of an anomaly the ECA will make a final determination.

Additional players may be added to this list during the season on approval of the ECA. Any such request must be submitted prior to the first match for which the player is required.

Clubs failing to have a player listed on the official player points list prior to a match shall be fined an amount of four penalty units.

Player Types

Player types are defined according to the following table (when at a club or joining a club), with the highest level of playing history over the past five seasons used to determine the points allocated unless the player has qualified as a one point Base Player and then remains so for life with that Club. Otherwise, in all other cases if a player falls into more than one category the highest category will apply.

Players of type three and above that leave their current Club before reaching one point status will have their time served reset to zero seasons for their new Club.

Players of type four and five who have not played at Premier First XI level or other State or Territory equivalent for the past five seasons will be deemed to be a type two or three as appropriate when joining a Club.

Club Submissions

A Club may submit a request for player type or team points consideration by the Executive under special and extenuating circumstances. Any such ruling will be final and be published on the ECA web site defining details of a change and validity of any such change. In the absence of proven deliberate misinformation, the change may only be applied prospectively.

Team Points

The maximum number of points for any Turf or Synthetic 1st XI team (excluding LOC) must not exceed 23 points.

Loyalty Provisions

All players, other than type one, will have their points allocation reduced by one point following the completion of two seasons at their Club. According to type, they will then reduce their points’ allocation by one point per season until they reach one point status.

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For a player to qualify for a season loyalty points reduction, they must be eligible to play in finals in accordance with Rule 11.8.1. Any points’ status achieved shall remain for life with that Club.

Any player who has qualified for finals in the Junior section of a Club in a minimum of two seasons shall automatically be defined as a one point player for that Club.

Penalties

Clubs involved in a match must, unless exceptional circumstances exist, notify the Operations Manager by 8.00pm on the Wednesday after the completion of a game their intention to lodge a complaint about any alleged breach of rule 11.7.5. Any team found to have breached the requirements of Rule 11.7.5 shall:

• Lose any matches in which the team’s maximum points were exceeded; and
• Lose any match points awarded in any matches in which the team’s maximum points were exceeded;
• Be subject to the Executive Council for any further penalty
• The Executive Council shall award points to the opposition team where they were lost due to the breach of this rule. - The maximum amount of points that can be awarded are six match points. - Where there are no results in all other games in the grade, the Executive Council shall award three points.

To be eligible to play or be named with a club in a semi-final or final, a player must have played or be named to play in at least 5 senior games.

A player must have also played or been named to play with that club in in that grade or lower by at least 6 games for the LOC grades or 5 games in other senior grades, but not more than half (½) the scheduled games in a team in a higher ranked grade in the home and away season, except when:

All of a club’s senior teams are participating in the same round of -semi-final or final matches, OR WHEN:

A club has consecutively graded teams playing in a semi-final or final, all players who are qualified to play for the first of the consecutively graded teams shall also be eligible for the lower consecutively graded team(s). (See Notes 1 and 2 below).

NOTES TO THIS RULE

Note 1: An unbroken sequence can be as few as two teams and it is possible for two unbroken sequences to occur for the one club. eg. 1st XI and 2nd XI; 4th XI and 5th XI. In this example, players who have played more than ½ the scheduled days in his club’s 3rd XI or higher would be ineligible to play in the 4th or 5th XI but could play in the 1st or 2nd XI.

Note 2: If an unbroken sequence is broken as a result of a loss by a team in a semi- final, the unbroken sequence rule does not apply to the final. However if under this rule a player plays or is named with a lower ranked team in a semi final the player will remain eligible to play with that team in the final. A player having played in a semifinal in a particular team is eligible to play in that team in the final, even if the unbroken sequence is broken.

Where an ECA Veterans exists, players who play or are named to play in any of these grades for more than 3 games of play will be able to count a maximum of 2 games for semi and grand finals qualifications under Rule 11.8.

Clubs must ensure their players are eligible to play in any finals match. If a club is unsure about a players eligibility they may seek confirmation about the players eligibility from the relevant grade secretary no later than 72 hours before the commencement of any finals match.

Clubs must, unless exceptional circumstances exist, notify the Operations Manager by 8.00pm on the Tuesday after the completion of any semi-final or final match of their intention to lodge a complaint about any alleged breach of this rule.

Any club playing an ineligible player in a semi-final or final match shall lose that match, whereupon the match shall be awarded to the opposing club.

Any player, team, club official, or spectator having an affinity with a club, shall be bound by the Association’s Code of Behaviour and by the Laws of Cricket. Team captains shall be expected to carry out their responsibilities for the proper conduct of matches as defined in Law 41.1 in the Laws of Cricket.

Official umpires, which include “club provided umpires” in semi-final and/or finals, members of the Executive Council and affiliated clubs may lodge charges and reports.

Charges and reports from umpires shall be in writing and lodged with the Assistant Operations Manager within 48 hours of the end of the match in which the alleged incident occurs.

Serious misbehaviour is classed as behaviour that is more serious than warranting a caution.

Umpires shall advise the Assistant Operations Manager of any reports caused by the alleged misbehaviour of player(s) by no later than 9pm on the day on which the alleged offence(s) occurred.

On receipt of the notice, the Assistant Operations Manger shall, as soon as possible, confirm with the player through their club, the details of the report. If the report is made on the first day of a match, the confirmation can be deferred until after the match is completed. Should:

a) player not accept the relative fixed penalty in terms of rules 12.5.1 and 12.5.2, or

b) the offence not be covered by a fixed penalty, or

c) the Executive Council decides, under Rule 12.5.5 that a hearing shall be held, then the Assistant Operations Manager shall arrange a hearing of the Disciplinary Committee. The details of that meeting shall be forwarded to the player, through their club, as soon as possible after it is known whether there is a need for a hearing.

The written report required in terms of rule 12.2.2 shall be on the form provided by the Association and should advise the player’s name, the club and the nature, date and time of the alleged incident and the applicable fixed penalty. A reported player, or in his absence the captain of the side or a club official, shall be handed one copy of the written report.

If it is necessary for the Disciplinary Committee to meet over a report then that report shall be dealt with in accordance with the relative clause of the Constitution.

An umpire reporting serious misbehaviour shall notify the player concerned as soon as possible after the alleged incident. If it is not possible to notify the player, then notification to the player’s captain or a club official, as soon as convenient after the alleged incident, will count as sufficient notification. If the player, the captain or a club official is not notified then the umpire shall state the reason on the report form provided by the Association. The report shall be recorded on the “Captain’s Assessment of Umpire" form unless the assessment form is lodged directly through the Association’s website Failure in relation to this rule does not prevent a disciplinary hearing from proceeding, should the Executive or the Disciplinary Committee feel the case has merit.

Where an umpire does not consider that a player’s misbehaviour is serious enough to warrant a report under rule 12.3.1 a caution shall be issued.

An umpire issuing a caution shall notify the player concerned as soon as possible after the alleged incident. If it is not possible to notify the player, then notification to the player’s captain or a club official, as soon as convenient after the alleged incident, will count as sufficient notification. If the player, the captain or a club official is not notified then the umpire shall state the reason on the umpire’s match form provided by the Association and as required in terms of rule 10.7.1. Umpires shall advise the Assistant Operations Manager of any caution no later than 24 hours after the completion of the match in which the caution was issued.

The Assistant Operations Manager shall, within 24 hours of receiving the umpire’s match report, confirm with the player, through his club, the details of the caution.

Should any player, during the same season, receive a second caution, the player shall be suspended from:

i) the next match in which the player’s club is involved; and

ii) shall be served in the same team's grade as that in which the player was cautioned.

If, for any reason, the club’s team in which the caution occurred is not scheduled to play on the first day or days immediately after the suspension is due to commence, then that day or days shall not be included in the suspension and the player is ineligible for any other association matches on that day or days.

Should the result of any hearing be that the second caution stands, then the player will automatically receive a further one match suspension.

The Disciplinary Committee shall deal with any player who is cautioned on more than two occasions in any season.

A player reported by an Umpire may elect to accept the fixed penalty appropriate to the alleged offence and as advised by the reporting umpire on the copy of the reported player form. A player, or the club Secretary, shall advise the Assistant Operations Manager by no later than 8pm on the day following the conclusion of the match in which the alleged offence occurred whether the player is accepting the fixed penalty. If the Assistant Operations Manager is not advised within the time frame it will be assumed that the player has taken the fixed penalty. The Assistant Operations Manager will confirm the acceptance of any fixed penalty within 48 hours of being advised that the penalty has been accepted or the cut-off time has expired.

Fixed penalties are to be advised by the Association at the first delegates’ meeting of each season.

Should any player who received an option to accept a fixed penalty but wishes to attend the Disciplinary Committee then be found guilty of the alleged offence, the Disciplinary Committee shall impose an additional minimum one match suspension which is to be added to the relevant fixed penalty (see rule 1.5).

Any penalty issued by the Disciplinary Committee shall apply to:

i) the next match(s) in which the player’s club is involved; and

ii) shall be served in the same grade as that in which the player was reported.

If, for any reason, the club’s team in which the report occurred is not scheduled to play on the first day or days immediately after the suspension is due to commence, then that day or days shall not be included in the suspension and the player is ineligible for any other association matches on that day or days.

The Executive Council shall peruse all umpires’ reports where a fixed penalty applies and may direct the reported player to attend a hearing by the Disciplinary Committee.

Any player under suspension or disqualification is not permitted on the field of play during a match or during any interval in play”.

Any player wishing to appeal against a caution by an umpire must lodge a written statement with the Assistant Operations Manager within 48 hours following the completion of the match in which the caution was issued.

The Disciplinary Committee shall hear the appeal at the earliest opportunity but no later than 14 days following the issue of the caution.

Any player whose appeal against a caution is not successful shall serve a further one match suspension which shall apply to:

i) the next match in which the player’s club is involved; and

ii) shall be served in the same grade as that in which the player was reported.

If, for any reason, the club’s team in which the caution occurred is not scheduled to play on the first day or days immediately after the suspension is due to commence, then that day or days shall not be included in the suspension and the player is ineligible for any other association matches on that day or days.

Any player wishing to appeal against a suspension shall lodge such appeal in accordance with the relative section of the Constitution.

Any Executive Council member wishing to report a club, club official, spectator having an affinity with a club, or player shall do so by lodging with the Operations Manager a written report within 48 hours of the reported incident occurring. If possible, the person or club being reported should be informed of the report on the day the incident occurs. Such report shall be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit.

The Executive Council may of its own motion initiate an investigation of an incident concerning the conduct of a club, club official, spectator having an affinity with a club, player or umpire or any person connected with the Association. It may report any such club, club official, spectator having an affinity with a club, player, umpire or person connected with the Association arising out of the investigation of such incident. Such report shall be dealt with as the Executive Council sees fit.

Any club may lodge a report or complaint against another club, official, player or a spectator having an affinity with another club and any such report shall be dealt with by the Association’s Investigation Committee.

Any report or complaint shall be dealt with as follows:

i) The Secretary of a club shall notify the Association Operations Manager within 24 hours of the completion of the match, by telephone or by email that the club intends to lodge a report or complaint.

ii) The Secretary of a club shall ensure the report or complaint is received in writing, with the Association’s Operations Manager within 72 hours of the completion of the match.

iii) A bond equivalent to ten (10) penalty units shall also be forwarded within 72 hours. This bond may be fully, partially or not refunded on the recommendation of the Association’s Investigation Committee.

Should any of the above three sections not be complied with any potential report or complaint shall not proceed. Should a club decide not to proceed with the report or complaint it may do so without penalty.

Upon receipt of the written report or complaint the Operations Manager shall, within 48 hours, forward a copy to the Secretary of the other club.

The report or complaint shall be forwarded to the Chairman of the Investigation Committee who shall organise a hearing as soon as possible after the receipt of the relevant information.

Any player chosen, with their consent, to play for the Association in any match and who fails to appear at such match, shall be dealt with by the Executive Council.

Players shall wear white or cream shirts and trousers. However, with the consent of the Executive Council, shirts with colour may be utilised providing that:

a) the colour shall be in the main colour of club. Should a club have more than one colour, only one of those colours may be used.

b) colouring shall be restricted to the shoulders of the shirts and stripes down the sleeves that shall not exceed 7cm in width. Subject to any special provisions made before the start of any season.

c) all players in any side shall wear either white/cream or coloured shirts. It is not permissible for some players to wear plain shirts and others coloured on the same day of any match.

Trousers shall be full length – white shorts may be worn only by players under the age of 16 years.

Shirts shall have a collar and may display manufacturer or one club sponsor logo; however such logo is restricted to a maximum size of 8cm x 8cm.

Socks and shoes shall be, for the most part, white.

Cricket pullovers incorporating club colours may be worn.

Any attire as laid down by Cricket Victoria or Cricket Australia shall be acceptable for any female players.

While playing in the synthetic section, no player shall wear footwear with sprigs, studs or spikes.

Headgear shall consist of cricket club caps or hats, plain white hats or Association representative caps or hats, but under no circumstances are they to carry commercial logos or the like.

Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 1 penalty unit for the each offence.

Clubs fielding teams in Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield, Burt Shield, McCarthy Shield and any Twenty 20 grades must outfit these teams with a minimum of colored playing Shirts (colored trousers and pads are optional) to be utilised during all one day or Twenty20 games they participate in. Other clubs or other grades may use colored clothing (shirts, trousers and pads) on request. Any clothing design is to be approved by the ECA Executive provided such is:

a) predominantly, designed with the colour/s of the club

b) include a club logo and / or a 'tasteful' characterisation of a club logo or mascot in its design

For Shirts the following restrictions apply: No more than four, sponsors logos are allowed, provided that any one is

i) not greater that 8cm x 8cm in size - and are situated on either the right/left breast, right/left sleeve or rear of the shirt

ii) may include a single line of a Sponsor website address (or similar length slogan) on the rear of the shirt that is no higher than 8cm

iii) may have the player's registered surname on the back, and if required first name or initial - (nicknames are not permitted)

iv) may include a number on the back that is no bigger than 30cm in height

v) all players in any side shall all wear either the same coloured shirts or white/cream shirts. It is not permissible for some players to wear plain shirts and others coloured on the same day of any match.

vi) players taking the field in E.C.A. approved Coloured Shirts must all be wearing Shirts carrying the same colour scheme, design, layout and sponsors.

For Trousers the following restrictions apply:

i) may display more than one, but not more than two, sponsors logos that are not greater that 8cm x 8cm in size - and are situated on either the right/left front pocket or, right/left thigh

ii) may include a single line of a website address (or similar length slogan) vertically down the outside of the Right Leg that is no higher than 10cm or may have the player's registered surname vertically down the outside of the Right Leg, and if required a first name or initial - (nicknames are not permitted).

iii) may include a number on the front Right Pocket in lieu of a sponsor logo that is no bigger than 12cm x 12 cm

iv) all players in any side shall all wear either coloured trousers or white/cream trousers. It is not permissible for some players to wear plain trousers and others coloured on the same day of any match. In addition, Coloured trousers may only be worn if a player wears his teams designated ECA approved coloured shirt.

v) Players taking the field in E.C.A. approved Coloured Trousers must all be wearing trousers carrying the same colour scheme, design, layout and sponsors.

Failure to comply with any rule within 4.10 shall incur a fine of 1 penalty unit for each offence

Formal permissions should be received in writing from the E.C.A. Executive Council, prior to a club purchasing or wearing clothing outlined under rule 14.10. Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 1 penalty unit for each offence

In all one day games in Dunstan Shield, Wright Shield, A Turf, Macgibbon Shield & Burt Shield plus other grades by request, and all Twenty20 games, clubs may wear batting pads or keeping pads which are entirely, designed with one of the predominant colours of the club. All players are to wear the same Coloured pads and Coloured pads are only permitted if players are also wearing coloured trousers. Pads in a contrasting colour to approved club trousers are permitted provided all players wear the same colour. Only pad manufacture logos are permitted on any Coloured pad being worn in E.C.A. sanctioned games. Failure to comply with these rules shall incur a fine of 1 penalty unit for each offence.

If both competing teams are wearing colored clothing a white ball must be used the match. If one of the competing teams is wearing colored clothing then a red ball must be used during the match.

The Association will provide cups, pennants, shields and trophies for premierships, best and fairest players and top Batting and Bowling average winners in each grade, such trophies to be presented at the Association Annual Presentation Night.

Any player who incurrs a match day suspension or disqualification is ineligible to win a best and fairest trophy.

Association grade average winners based on the information entered in the Association computerised match and player information system are to be determined from players who have satisfied the following conditions: Batting – minimum of 7 innings and 250 runs (excluding semi-final and final matches). Bowling – minimum of 60 overs and 16 wickets (excluding semi-final and final matches). Players must have played, or been named to play in at least;

a) six games in that grade of the Turf Section or

b) seven games in that grade of the Synthetic Section or

c) nine games in that grade of the One Day Competition to be eligible to win an average award.

The information required by rule 15.3 is to be obtained no later than 5 April each year.

Failure to comply with this rule shall incur a fine of 2 penalty units and the averages of players involved shall not be considered.

The Executive Council shall have the power to reduce, in respect of any grade, the requirements of rule 15.2 should more than three rounds of play in that grade during the season be completely washed out or abandoned.

Where a player or umpire suffers an injury that causes bleeding, that person shall immediately retire from the match until such time as first aid has been administered to prevent further bleeding. The injured person can not return to the field of play until the bleeding has ceased.

An injured batsman who has temporarily retired and is unable to return after the fall of the ninth wicket shall be recorded in the scorebooks as “retired hurt” and the innings shall be deemed closed.

Where an injury occurs to a batsman involved in a tenth wicket partnership, a maximum of five (5) minutes shall be allowed for the obtaining of treatment. If the injury occurs within thirty (30) minutes of a scheduled interval, that interval shall be taken immediately. If the batsman is unable to resume after the interval he shall be recorded in the scorebooks as “retired hurt” and the innings shall be deemed closed.

Where an injury occurs to an umpire, the other umpire, if in attendance, shall officiate at both ends otherwise the batting team will provide a competent person to stand as an Umpire until the injured umpire is able to resume.

Failure to comply with this rule shall be reported to the Assistant Operations Manager by the Umpire(s), or if no official umpire by the opposing club within 48 hours following the completion of the match.

Any such reports shall result in the player appearing before the Disciplinary committee.

Bowlers may bowl a maximum of 16 overs per innings (to the first 72 overs of the innings & after that there are no restrictions) with a maximum of 8 overs per bowler per 32 over split session.

A batter must retire on the ball at which they reach 100 (50 for One Day Matches).

A team may have Thirteen (13) registered players of which any combination of 11 players can bat, bowl and field. There are only 11 on the field at any one time and 10 wickets only can be taken as per normal playing conditions.

Each team must declare their 13 players by exchanging team sheets listing all 13 players. At the exchange of team sheets, each team must nominate the non batter. You do not need to play 13 players, this is an option only.

All 13 players of a team must be entered in My Cricket and also be recorded in both scorebooks. Players not listed in the scorebook and on My Cricket will mean they are unable to count the match towards finals qualifications.

If a bowler commences an over that exceeds the limit of overs bowled as specified in these guidelines the delivery or deliveries is/are to be declared null and void and a replacement bowler will re-bowl the over.

For Two Day Matches

Each innings (72 overs) will be split into 36 over groups i.e. after Team A has faced the first 36 overs of an innings there will be a tea break and the fielding team (Team B) will start their batting innings after the tea break.

On Day Two Team B will resume their innings (assuming they were not dismissed) with the 2 current not out batters, for a further maximum of 36 overs. After the Tea break Team A will then resume their innings.

At the end of each batting session, a notation must be made in the scorebook confirming score at end of 36 overs e.g. 4/156. Not out batters and their individual scores e.g. Smith 23* Jones 12*. A further notation should be made to record which end the last over was bowled from, the bowlers name and which batter was on strike. These details will be important on day 2 ensuring bowling commences from the correct end with the correct batter on strike. In effect, the first innings of each team (72 overs) is split across 2 days.

If a team is dismissed prior to using its allocated 72 overs, the other team will be able to bat these overs, less any loss for change of innings. For example, if Team 1 is dismissed in 54 overs, Team 2 can bat for 90 overs (72 overs + 18 overs). Follow-on Rules etc. will still apply as per the current 2 day Rules.

In the event of extreme conditions, existing Rules will apply. The team batting last must be given the opportunity to face the same number of overs as the team batting first (maximum 72 overs). If the team batting last does not face the same number of overs and is not dismissed or they don’t make the necessary runs the match will be a draw.

In each section of the innings, a bowler can only bowl a maximum 8 overs per session, capped at 16 overs for the 72 over innings.

In the event that a team is dismissed within the 72 overs the bowling restriction is removed after 36 overs have been bowled in the next batting session.

For One Day Matches

Bowlers can bowl a maximum of 8 overs per innings.

A batter must retire on the ball at which they reach 50.

The Laws of Cricket (currently updated), as adopted by ECA, the ECA Senior Rules, except as varied hereunder, shall apply plus any amendments the Executive Council deem fit.

All participating players should be a registered financial member of the club they are representing in the season of the competition, and have played a minimum of 2 matches in the current or previous season. A player not meeting this requirement may be allowed to play if prior permission to play is granted by the Coordinating Committee.

Players competing in Premier or Sub District Cricket 1st or 2nd XI sides in the season of the competition are ineligible, unless they have qualified for finals in the Junior Mixed section of a Club in a minimum of two seasons (per player points rule11.7.6.3). Premier and Sub Distict 3rd or 4th XI players representing such club which has been accepted into the competition, or for whom prior approval has been given to play are eligible. Clubs can only select one player in each match who is eligible under the abovementioned criteria.

The ECA Executive may nominate rounds of the T20 Competition that Marquee Players may be selected. A Club may select one Marquee Player not otherwise eligible under Rule 18.2.1 or 18.2.2 in any round of the T20 Competition. No clearance is required, however the name of the Marquee Player must be communicated to the General Manager at least 48 hours before the match and be registered on PlayHQ.

Any player(s) serving a suspension at the time of a scheduled Twenty20 match for their club are ineligible.

The matches will consist of one innings per side, each innings being limited to a maximum of 20 overs. Teams shall be 11 per side as nominated by the Captain.

Before the toss for innings the Captain shall nominate his players. The nominations shall be in writing and may not thereafter be changed without the consent of the opposing Captain.

Each Captain will hand his team sheet to the Umpire prior to the toss.

Standard Scheduled Start and Cessation Times as follows: First Session 5.30pm – 6.45pm Interval 6.45pm – 6.55pm Second Session 6.55pm – 8.10pm. Note: Start times may only be altered with the approval of the Umpire or the General Manager.

Intervals between innings shall be of 10 minutes duration. No drinks intervals are permitted.

In exceptional circumstances the game date may be changed in advance with the consent of both clubs and the approval of the Twenty20 Coordinator. However the game must be played within seven days of the original scheduled playing date.

Semi Final and Finals game may be scheduled at the discretion of the Coordinating Committee.

If no play is possible, or any of the matches are a tie or no result, a ‘bowl out’ may take place (refer Rule 20.6 for details).

If in the opinion of the umpires, natural light is deteriorating to an unfit level, they shall authorize the use of any available artificial lighting so that the match can continue in acceptable conditions.

Each team shall bat for 20 overs unless all out earlier. If the team batting first is dismissed in less than 20 overs, the team batting second shall be entitled to bat for 20 overs.

Play shall, if necessary, continue beyond 8.10pm weather and light permitting, in order to complete the full over entitlement of the side batting second.

Where there is no delay or interruption in the innings of the side batting first and If the overs are not completed at 6.45pm the umpires shall note the number of overs completed, with the team batting first receiving their full entitlement of overs. The team batting second will then only receive the number of overs completed at 6.45pm. ie if at 6.45pm team A has received 18 completed overs then they can bat for 20 overs and team B will receive 18 overs.

If a match is delayed or interrupted 10 overs per side will constitute a minimum match requirement.

If, the match is delayed or interrupted during the innings of the team batting first the overs requirement shall be reduced by 1 over for each 3.5 minutes of time lost or part thereof.

If the innings of the side batting first is delayed or interrupted, that innings will be compulsorily closed after completion of the over in progress at 6.45pm or the completion of 10 overs whichever happens later. The team batting second shall be entitled to bat for only the same number of overs as bowled to the side batting first.

If the side batting second receives less than 10 completed overs and no other result has been obtained, the match shall be drawn.

When there is no interruption after play has commenced and when both sides have had the opportunity of batting for the same agreed number of overs, the team scoring the higher number of runs shall be the winner. A tie, is equal runs, irrespective of wickets lost, refer 18.6.3.

Where both sides have received at least 10 completed overs but the side batting second has received less overs than the side batting first the result will be determined on average run rate. The number of completed overs received by each side will be divided into their respective scores and the team with the highest run rate per over shall be the winner.

Result in The Event of A Tie or No Result In the event of a tie or no result in the preliminary pool rounds, the match points will be split evenly between the two competing clubs. In the event of a tie or no result in the knockout finals rounds, the match will be awarded to the higher ranked club in the pool rounds. In the event of a tie in the Grand Final the premiership will be shared, consistent with the Senior Mixed Rule 4.14.3.

Area of Restriction The restricted area shall be the area around the pitch within semi-circles, one at each end, and straight lines, one on each side.

Semi-Circles and Line Measurements The radius of each semi-circle shall be 27.5 metres from the centre stump and the extremities of its base shall meet with the straight lines of pitch length, at points in line with the bowling crease.

Marking of Area Limits The limits of the restricted area shall be clearly marked by a white line or by discs. The discs shall be 30 in number and be fixed in place approximately 7 metres apart with one disc at each extremity of the bases of the semi-circles.

Restrictions on the Placement of Fieldsmen At the instant of delivery there shall not be more than five fieldsmen on the leg side. For the first 5 overs (1-5) of each innings, only two fieldsmen are permitted to be outside the field restriction circles. For the next 5 overs (6-10), only 3 fieldsmen, for the next 5 overs (11-15), only 4 fieldsmen and for the next 5 overs (16-20), only 5 fieldsmen. In an interrupted match, the field-restrictions will apply as follows:

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Overs are to be bowled in 5-over blocks alternating between ends, ie. overs 1-5 are bowled from one end, then overs 6-10 are bowled from the other end, etc.

A bowler shall not deliver more than one-fifth of the full or reduced over entitlement in each innings. Where a recalculation of a bowlers limit results in a fraction the limit shall be raised to the next higher number for as many bowlers as is necessary to absorb the balance in whole overs.

At the end of each over, only the two batsmen change ends. Apart from the normal field position changes, the fieldsmen only change after each five over block. At the end of each 5 over block, the umpires and batsmen remain at the same end.

The Captain of the batting side may not declare his innings closed at any time during the course of a match.

The delivery following a no ball called for a foot fault (Law 21.5) shall be a free hit for whichever batsman is facing it. If the delivery for the free hit is not a legitimate delivery (any kind of no ball or a wide ball), then the next delivery will become a free hit for whichever batsman is facing it.

For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstance that apply for a no ball, even if the delivery for the free hit is called wide ball.

Field changes will only be permitted for free hit deliveries if a different batsman is on strike for the free hit delivery.

In any one over a bowler shall be permitted to bowl one fast short pitched delivery which, having bounced, passes or would have passed above shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. Should there be a repetition in the same over either umpire shall call and signal "no ball".

Any fast short pitched delivery, not being a no ball under 11.1 above , which passes so high that it is not sufficiently within the striker's reach for it to be hit by the bat with a normal cricket stroke, shall be called and signaled wide ball by the umpire at the bowler's end.

A delivery that passes outside the leg stump without any contact with the striker's bat or person shall be a wide unless the ball passes between the striker and the stumps. A ball passing the batsman on the off side more than 75 cm wide of the off stump shall be called a wide.

Law 40 will apply. The incoming batsman must be in position to take guard or for his partner to be ready to receive the next ball within 1 minute 30 seconds of the fall of the previous wicket. The incoming batsman is expected to be ready near the boundary to make his way to the wicket immediately a wicket falls, and is expected to jog to the wicket.

One new 4 piece pink Kookaburra ball shall be used for each innings, unless otherwise directed by the Executive council.

Players are to wear colored clothing and/or equipment, provided that each team member wears the same coloured clothing. Otherwise with the approval of the Coordinator normal white cricket attire may be worn.

The Executive shall have power to investigate and adjudicate upon all matters arising out of, or in connection with, matches.

If a member of the Executive is a representative of a Club involved in an investigation, he shall cease to act on the Executive for the duration of the investigation.

Disputes/Protests: Any Club referring a dispute to the Executive shall, within two days after the completion of the match in which the cause of disagreement has occurred, lodge a statement in writing of the matter in dispute, and shall also within the same time lodge a copy of such statement with the Secretary/Administration Manager of the other affected Club.

Contrived Results

i) The Executive shall have power to investigate a game or the actions of the captains of the clubs or any players involved in a match if it suspects reasonably that the competing clubs with or without the assistance or collusion of any other person or club have colluded to contrive the result of a match. If the Executive decides to carry out an investigation it will conduct such inquiries as it sees fit and invite submissions about the match or the conduct of either captain or any player and will give any person the opportunity to be heard.

ii) If the Executive finds that the Clubs, captains or players have colluded to contrive the outcome of a match the Committee may in its absolute discretion do one or more of the following:

a) fine a club, captain or player;

b) suspend a captain or player from playing in any match or matches;

c) take any action it deems appropriate.

All matters regarding serious and minor misbehaviour will be dealt with in accordance with Rule 12 in the ECA Senior Rules.

If any player is suspended the suspension will apply to the next available game(s) in which the club is involved and in the same grade in which the player normally plays.

If a player receives an official caution it will be treated as per Rule 12.

Match Report

All Clubs shall lodge via within 24 hours after the termination of each match details of the match scores and best performances. Note: Run Rates determine ladder positions, so when a team is dismissed you must enter the overs faced as the maximum overs to be bowled to that team.

Match Reports and Umpires Performance Reports are to be lodged as per ECA Senior Rules

Appointment and Payment of Fees Umpires for all matches shall be appointed by the Executive. Umpires' fees shall be advised at the start of the season.

All umpires will submit match reports as per the ECA Senior Rules.