Resumption of cricket
Best news so far is that cricket activities are allowed to return at this stage of coming out of lockdown, although there are plenty of rules to comply to with restrictions on how we manage the game and carry out training.

I have been given a 26 page document issued by the ECB outlining the necessary restrictions and compliances for cricket clubs, for us to operate cricket this season,
including a four page Club Covid risk assessment, which has to be filled in and met. (Oh joy!)

Restrictions
At this stage, it does look like that we shall get a full league season with relegation and promotion in operation. At present the toilets will be available but the rest of the clubhouse, showers and changing rooms remaining closed with players bringing their own teas, plus no car sharing for away matches and of course sanitising and social distancing. In the early part of the season it also looks as though there will be a limited presence at grounds for spectators too.

Thanks!
Last week on two evenings a willing band of volunteers turned up at Sandilands to start preparing the facilities for the coming season. Thanks to everyone for their hard work and time, which enabled the nets to be opened up, ready for training and practices.

Juniors
An open air meeting was held for our junior players last Friday, for players and parents to register and meet team managers and coaches. Training for juniors is starting this coming week on Wednesdays and Fridays, 6.30 pm till 8 pm.

Senior Training
Our senior players also got things moving last Saturday for all four teams having training throughout the day. Evening training and net sessions are starting this week on Tuesdays 6-8pm (1st and 2nd XI squads) and Thursdays 6-8pm (3rd/4th and 5th XI squads).

We have pre-season friendlies booked starting the weekend 17th/18th April.

Welcome to new players
A big welcome to new players who have signed up and come along to training. Please ensure you have downloaded the pitchero app so you can stay in touch with all the developments and mark your availability. Any problems ask Jon Kuhrt or David Roche.

So you can see that we are ready and willing to participate in cricket for this season, which hopefully by sticking to the rules, we shall all enjoy resumption of play.

Best wishes and keep safe,
Roger
ACC Chairman