Welcome to the second season of the Hertfordshire Women's Cricket League!
Thank you all for your valuable feedback at the end of 2025. This has helped inform the direction you would like the league to go, and, as a result, we have made changes to the playing offer in each division as well as the cup and plate competition.
The divisions will play a consistent format throughout the season, and we have replaced the Hundred competition with T20 cup and plate competitions. We hope this allows for more cricket to be played, and with a new division 1, for matches to be more competitive.
The HWCL has already started to grow, with existing clubs entering more teams, and we are delighted to welcome Cokenach, Preston and Radlett to the HWCL.
We hope you all continue to enjoy the cricket on offer in Herts and Beds and have a great season.
Rebecca Kelly, HWCL Organiser
Spirit of Cricket
Cricket owes much of its appeal and enjoyment to the fact it should be played both according to the Laws, and within the Spirit of Cricket.
The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains, but extends to all players, umpires and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents.
Respect is central to the Spirit of Cricket.
- Respect your captain, team-mates, opponents and the authority of the umpires.
- Play hard and play fair.
- Accept the umpire’s decision.
- Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct, and encourage others to do likewise.
- Show self-discipline, even when things go against you.
- Congratulate the opposition on their successes, and enjoy those of your own team.
- Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match, whatever the result.
Cricket is an exciting game that encourages leadership, friendship and teamwork, which brings together people from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the Spirit of Cricket.
Introduction
This book provides all the match day information about the new Hertfordshire Women's Cricket League. It is an esential guide for captains, players and officials.
Check you are looking at the correct match rules for the version of the game in which you are playing/officiating.
Also check the various administrative tasks that must take place, such as swapping of team sheets, naming teams online, and reporting results. NOTE that all results must be recorded on the League’s play-cricket. com website.
Towards the back of this book are contact details for the umpires. Club contact details are at www.hertswomenscl.co.uk. Here are contact details for our league officers.
1.1 The conduct of all matches will be governed by The Laws of Cricket (2017 Code 3rd Edition - 2022) and all relevant ECB regulations and guidelines, except as stated otherwise in these rules.
1.2 In the Premier Division, all teams will play each other home and away on specific dates set by the League. Matches shall be one innings each, played in accordance with the 35 Overs match rules specified on page 11.
1.3 In the Championship, all teams will play each other home and away on specific dates set by the League. Matches shall be one innings each, played in accordance with the 30 Overs match rules specifie on page 16.
1.4 In Division 1, all teams will play each other once, on specific dates set by the League. Matches shall be one innings each, played in accordance with the 25 Overs match rules specified on page 22.
2. Coloured clothing
All teams are required to wear coloured clothing. Batters and wicket-keepers are recommended and encouraged to wear coloured pads.
3. Umpires and Scorers
3.1 Teams in the Premier Division will be provided with two panel umpires to officiate at each match.
3.2 Panel umpires will be paid by the League. The level and method of reimbursement will be determined from time to time by the League Executive Committee.
3.3 Teams in the Championship and Division 1 must provide an umpire. Teams are recommended to provide a qualified umpire who is a member of the ECB ACO and has completed both Stage 1 and 2 courses or their equivalents.
3.4 All teams are expected to provide a scorer at each match who should not be a player involved in that match.
3.5 In the Premier Division, it is expected that the scorer should have a minimum of 2 years’ experience who is capable of using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method on Play Cricket.
4. Venue (Pitches, Outfield and Surrounds)
4.1 The boundary must be defined, and markers used if available. The boundary will be a minimum of 45 metres from the middle wicket from each end (if the ground dimensions allow), maximum of 55 metres each end at a 45-degree angle.
4.2 Some venues may vary depending upon limitations.
5. Ground and Cancellation – Premier Division
5.1 Up to one hour before the scheduled start time covers shall be used at the discretion of the home club and its groundsman to protect the pitch.
5.2 The umpires shall be responsible for decisions concerning the fitness of the ground for play and the use of covers from one hour before the scheduled start time.
5.3 No game shall be cancelled without the explicit agreement of at least one of the appointed umpires, or a deputy from the Umpires Panel nominated either by one of the appointed umpires or the Umpires Co-ordinator. An umpire attending the ground may request reasonable travelling expenses not exceeding £10 from the home club, which will be payable as specified in 3.2.
6. Ground and Cancellation – Championship and Division 1
6.1
Prior to the toss the home team is the ground authority for all games and is the sole arbiter as to whether or not the ground is fit for play. After the toss, the following shall apply with respect to the fitness of ground and the weather:
• Where there are two non-playing umpires, they shall be the sole arbiters.
• Where there is one non-playing umpire, then if there is no agreement between the captains, the umpire’s decision shall prevail.
• Where there are no non-playing umpires the responsibility for determining the suitability of the conditions shall be with the two captains. They are to act having proper regard for their responsibilities in relation to the safety and safeguarding of all participants. If the two captains are unable to reach agreement a non-playing committee member of the home club shall be responsible for the decision. If no non-playing committee member is available then play will be suspended. Having suspended play it shall only be resumed with the consent of both captains.
7. Covers
Covering of pitches and bowlers’ run-ups shall be allowed after play has commenced. Where only partial covers are available, to ensure play can resume as quickly as possible, bowlers’ run-ups shall be covered up to a distance not exceeding five feet in front of the popping crease.
8. Team Sheets
8.1 Captains must pass team sheets to the umpires prior to the toss taking place. Team sheets will contain the names of players and, if applicable, identify all players aged under 20 so that all applicable ECB Regulations with respect to young players can be monitored.
8.2 A substitute player may be named as the 12th player on the sheet but is not permitted to bat, bowl or keep wicket.
8.3 Umpires and the opposition captain must be notified who the person of authority aged 18 years or older is on the team sheet in respect of the duty of care for younger players.
8.4 Where a team is unable to field eleven players, the league encourages teams to still play even when they are short of players. The minimum number of players required to constitute a team will be seven.
9. Balls
9.1 All league fixtures will be played with cricket balls that have been approved by the League (see page 4).
9.2 One new ball will be used from the commencement of each innings. New balls are to be supplied by the home team.
9.3 Home teams must ensure that at least two spare new balls (one for use in each innings if required), of the correct make and grade and a selection of suitable spare balls of varying ages and use are available to the umpires prior to the start of the match. The umpires may delay the start of a match if suitable spare balls are not provided.
10. Interference by Weather – Duckworth Lewis Stern Method
10.1 Whenever possible, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method will be used to calculate the Target Score.
10.2 If the umpires (or captains, where there are no non-playing umpires) decide that it is not possible to obtain a target score by using the DLS method, this decision shall be agreed before the toss and the scorers informed.
11. Penalty Runs
11.1 Penalty runs to be awarded under the Laws of Cricket (2017 Code 3rd Edition 2022), shall only be awarded as follows:
• In all divisions, for illegal fielding (Law 28.2).
• In all divisions, for a ball striking a protective helmet placed on the ground (Law 28.3).
• In the Premier Division, where there is at least one panel umpire, the awarding of penalty runs shall apply in full.
• In other divisions, for breaches of the law on player behaviour (Law 42) provided there is at least one qualified non-playing umpire.
12. Results
12.1 The standard SHPCL rules will apply to the reporting of match results.
12.2 In addition to 12.1 the home team is responsible for posting the match result on play-cricket, as follows:
a) By 9pm on the day of the match: the team totals, wickets taken, overs bowled and result.
b) By 10pm on the Wednesday following the match: the full scorecard including names of match officials.
c) Failure to meet these requirements will result in a 5-point penalty and a fine of £30 for each occasion, payable by the Home Club to the League.
13. Fielding Time out, Coaching During a match
13.1 Coaches, scorers and non-players are not permitted to coach or enter the field of play whilst the match is in progress.
13.2 Umpires and coaches who are umpiring are not permitted to coach whilst the match is in progress. They must remain impartial during the match.
13.3 For Championship and Division 1 games, the fielding captain may call a fielding timeout so that coaches may provide tactical guidance to the team. This will be the only form of coaching allowed during the game. The batting team coach may also provide tactical guidance to the batting pair during this time out. Such timeouts are restricted to 1 per innings, must not exceed 2 minutes in time and may only be called by the fielding team.
14. Marking
14.1 In the Premier Division the Captains will mark umpires’ performance using the facility on Who’s The Umpire in accordance with the rules set out within this handbook.
14.2 In the Premier Division the Umpires will mark the pitch, team discipline and facilities as well as reporting any instances of misconduct.
14.3 In the Championship and Division 1 the Captains will mark the facilities using the facility on the Play-Cricket website and report any instances of misconduct requiring a disciplinary report. .
15. Discipline & Disciplinary Points
15.1 The standard SHPCL Disciplinary rules will apply.
15.2 Law 42 will apply except that when a Level 1 or Level 2 offence has been committed by a member of the batting side, Laws 42.2.2 and 42.3.2 shall be replaced by ‘Together the umpires shall inform the batters at the wicket and each incoming batter that an offence at this level has occurred and, as soon as practicable, inform the captain of the batting team.’ Refer to the table within this handbook for guidance concerning dissent and serious dissent.
16. Junior Players and ECB Fast Bowling Regulations
16.1 The minimum age for Open Age cricket in the Women’s Hardball League is the U13 age group.
16.2 For juniors playing in the Premier Division, the junior must be in Year 8 (if a County Age Group player), and at least 12 years old, or Year 9 (if a Club player), and at least 13 years old, on 1st September of the preceding year.
16.3 The junior’s parents, club coach and an independent Level 2 coach must sign and adhere to the terms set out in the HWCL U13 Consent Form which can be found on the HWCL website.
16.4 At least 50% of the intended team players must be aged 15 years or older unless agreed by both captains.
16.5 The ECB fast bowling regulations (published in the league handbook) shall apply to all league games and failure to comply will result in a 10 point penalty on each occasion.
17. Clubs with Multiple Teams
17.1 If a club has two or more teams entered in the Women’s Hardball League, movement between the teams must be restricted to a genuine need.
17.2 Clubs must name 6 players who are only eligible to play in the first team. These named players are expected to be the star players in that team e.g. a County Women’s or County U18s player, the 1st team Captain, or the top run scorer or top wicket taker from the previous season.
17.3 Exemptions to this rule must be approved by the HWCL Sub-Committee and due to a genuine need e.g. injury. It is the expectation of the HWCL that if a club has two or more teams, they have the appropriate squad size to sustain this.
18. International Representative Players
18.1 In addition to the player eligibility requirements above, any player that has represented their country at any level is only permitted to play in the Premier Division.
19. Players Registered with Multiple Clubs
19.1 A player registered to a HWCL team may also play for a Saturday team in Open Cricket even if this is at a different Club.
19.2 A player who plays for a women’s softball club team may play for a different club who has a women’s hardball league team, but only if their designated softball team does not have a women’s hardball league team established.
19.3 A player who plays for a women’s Herts T20 Cup or Plate team may play for a different club who has a women’s hardball league team, but only if their designated T20 team does not have a women’s hardball league team established.
19.4 A junior player whose club does not have a women’s team may play Open Age Women’s Cricket for a different club.
20. League Positions
League positions in each Division will be determined by the total number of points gained less penalty points. In the event of two or more teams finishing on equal points, league position will be determined in the following order:
• The team with the highest net run rate from completed matches, but if still level
• The team with the highest runs per wicket, calculated by aggregating all runs scored in completed matches divided by the total number of wickets lost.
21. Promotion and Relegation
At the end of each season a system of promotion and relegation will operate as follows:
a) The team finishing 6th in the Premier Division will be relegated to the Championship.
b) The team finishing 1st in the Championship will be promoted to the Premier Division. Only a Club's 1st XI is eligible for promotion to the Premier Division.
c) The team finishing 6th in the Championship will be relegated to Division 1.
d) The team finishing 1st in Division 1 will be promoted to the Championship.
e) In the event of a team that qualifies for promotion from either the Championship or Division 1 not wishing to accept, or not meeting the criteria for promotion, then the League Executive Committee shall determine the composition of the teams in all divisions for the following season.
Match Rules for 35 Over Matches
1. Duration, Hours of Play and Intervals
1.1. Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 7.10pm.
1.2. There will normally be two sessions of play of 2 hours and 20 minutes each separated by an interval of 30 minutes between the innings.
1.3. If the innings of the team batting first is completed prior to the scheduled time for the interval then the interval shall, if considered practicable by the umpires, take place immediately and may be extended with the agreement of the captains and umpires, if necessary, by up to 15 minutes (to a maximum of 45 minutes).
1.4. In delayed or interrupted matches, the captains may agree to forgo the interval, in accordance with Law 11.9, in which case there shall be an interval between innings of 10 minutes.
1.5. Each innings will be allowed one five minute drinks interval midway through the innings, unless there are exceptional circumstances where two or more intervals will be allowed. Time taken for drinks shall be regarded as an interval in accordance with Law 11.8.
1.6. Each match shall consist of a maximum of 35 overs per innings except where time is lost after the scheduled start time due to inclement weather or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, when the number of overs shall be reduced as hereinafter provided.
1.7. If the team batting first is dismissed before the overs to which it is entitled have been bowled, the team batting second shall be entitled to bat for its full entitlement of overs or as further reduced due to inclement weather or other cause. Declarations are not permitted.
1.8. In the event of delays due to weather or other causes, a minimum of 10 overs per team is required to constitute a match.
2. Delayed Start and Interruptions
2.1. If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 60 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4.
2.2. The latest start time for a match reduced to 10 overs per team shall be 5.40pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.
2.3. A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 10 overs per team, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of overs originally allocated.
2.4. The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions. Interrupted matches
2.5. First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption
during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both teams have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs. The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 8 minutes of playing time lost. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4 or forgone in accordance with Law 11.9.
2.6. Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the team batting second to face the same number of overs as the team batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 4 minutes per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings.
3. Fielding Restrictions
3.1. Two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 25 yards. The ends of each semi-circle shall be joined to the other by a straight line drawn on the field on the same side of the pitch. The fielding restriction area should be marked by ‘dots’ at five-yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring seven inches in diameter.
3.2. For the first 7 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 2 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking defined in 3.1.
3.3. After the first 7 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 4 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking.
3.4. Throughout the innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than five fielders shall be permitted to field on the leg side.
3.5. In the event of an infringement of any of the fielding restrictions specified in 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 above the umpire at the striker’s end shall call and signal ‘No Ball.’
3.6. If, in the opinion of either batter, the striker’s end umpire fails to call and signal ‘No Ball’ when either these fielding restrictions or Law 28.4 (Limitation of On-side fielders) have been breached, then immediately the ball becomes dead, either batter may draw the matter to the attention of either umpire. If the striker’s end umpire is able to verify the breach, he/she shall call and signal No Ball. If the striker’s end umpire is unable to verify the breach, then he/she shall confirm that the events of the delivery shall be unchanged.
3.7. In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the restrictions in 3.2 and 3.3 shall be reduced in accordance with the table below. For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the table below shall apply to both the 1st and 2nd innings of the match.
. 3.8. If time lost results in a reduction of overs and play was stopped during the powerplay, the powerplay will be reduced accordingly. Example: Play stops in Over 6 of a 35 over match (normal powerplay is 7 overs). Overs are reduced to 25, The powerplay is therefore complete at resumption of the game so the powerplay fielding restriction does not apply.
4. Number of Overs Per Bowler
4.1. In a 35 over match no bowler may bowl more than 7 overs in an innings. In a match with an innings of less than 35 overs, no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs available. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, an additional over shall be allowed to the minimum number of bowlers necessary to make up the balance.
E.g., in an innings of 27 overs, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 6 overs.
4.2. If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over. E.g., match reduced to 22 overs, one bowler has bowled 7 – 3 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 4 overs and 1 bowler may bowl a maximum of 3.
4.3. In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.
5. No Balls and Free Hits
5.1. Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in Law 21.3.
5.2. The delivery following a No Ball shall be a free hit for whichever batter is facing it. Note: this applies to all modes of No Ball except for the first short pitched delivery that passes or would have passed clearly over head-height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. For clarity, such a delivery to be called a No Ball and considered the one short pitched delivery for the over.
5.3. 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 batter is facing it.
5.4. For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a No Ball, even if the delivery for a free hit is called a Wide Ball.
5.5. Field changes are not permitted for free hit deliveries unless there is a change of striker, or the No Ball was the result of a field restriction breach in which case the field may be changed to the extent of correcting the breach. However, in all circumstances, any fielder within 15 yards of the striker may retreat to a position on the same line no more than 15 yards from the striker.
5.6. When the ball is dead and after signalling ‘No Ball’ to the scorers, the bowler’s end umpire will call and signal a free hit by extending one arm straight upwards and moving it in a circular motion.
5.7. The free hit delivery counts as a ball in the over unless it in turn is a Wide Ball or a No Ball.
6. The Bowling of Fast, Short Pitched Deliveries
Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with:
A bowler shall be limited to one fast, short pitched delivery per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched delivery is defined as one that passes or would have passed clearly over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded, and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of Laws 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.
7. Over Rate Penalties
7.1. The fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the 35th over within 2 hours and 15 minutes of playing time.
7.2. In the event of them failing to do so, one fewer fielder shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area in 3.2 and 3.3 than would normally be the case in the Powerplay overs in progress at the time. All penalties in this regard will be imposed at the end of the over in progress when the scheduled or re-scheduled cessation time for the innings was exceeded. The full quota of overs will be completed.
7.3. Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding team of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting team shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made
7.4. If the innings is completed before the scheduled or re-scheduled cut off time no over rate penalty shall apply.
7.5. If the start of an innings is delayed or an innings is interrupted, the over rate penalty will apply based on the revised number of overs and the re-scheduled cessation time for that innings. The umpires shall inform the fielding team captain when taking the field for the first time and on every subsequent
occasion if play is interrupted by the weather or other cause, of the scheduled time for that innings (by which the fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the last over). The time allowed to bowl the overs shall be calculated on the basis of four minutes per over.
7.6. In addition, in all reduced overs matches, the fielding team will be given one over’s leeway, such that the fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the penultimate over by the scheduled or rescheduled cut off time.
8. Wide Ball
The umpires and captains shall ensure that consistency is achieved across both innings for determining what constitutes a wide delivery. The principles set out in Law 22 should be used when umpires and captains are reaching agreement.
9. The Result
9.1. At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both teams have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.
9.2. If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match where the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the team batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 5. If the target is reached or exceeded, the team batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the team batting first shall be deemed to have won.
9.3. If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the team batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either team was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the team was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).
10. Points System
Points will be awarded as follows: Win 30 points; Tie 10 points + Bonus Points; Loss Bonus Points only; Cancelled or Abandoned 10 points If any team fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 30 points available for that fixture. Any team which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 10 points from its points total.
Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the team is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.
Example: In an uninterrupted 35 over match a team is all out for 197 in 32.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 197 divided by 35 = 5.63. Therefore 4 batting bonus points shall be awarded. The fielding team shall be awarded full bowling points if only one batter remains.
Match Rules for 30 Over Matches
1. Duration, Hours of Play and Intervals
1.1. Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 6.30pm.
1.2. There will normally be two sessions of play of 2 hours each separated by an interval of 30 minutes between the innings.
1.3. If the innings of the team batting first is completed prior to the scheduled time for the interval then the interval shall, if considered practicable by the umpires, take place immediately and may be extended with the agreement of the captains and umpires, if necessary, by up to 15 minutes (to a maximum of 45 minutes).
1.4. In delayed or interrupted matches, the captains may agree to forgo the interval, in accordance with Law 11.9, in which case there shall be an interval between innings of 10 minutes.
1.5. Each innings will be allowed one five minute drinks interval midway through the innings, unless there are exceptional circumstances where two or more intervals will be allowed. Time taken for drinks shall be regarded as an interval in accordance with Law 11.8.
1.6. Each match shall consist of a maximum of 30 overs per innings except where time is lost after the scheduled start time due to inclement weather or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, when the number of overs shall be reduced as hereinafter provided.
1.7. If the team batting first is dismissed before the overs to which it is entitled have been bowled, the team batting second shall be entitled to bat for its full entitlement of overs or as further reduced due to inclement weather or other cause. Declarations are not permitted.
1.8. In the event of delays due to weather or other causes, a minimum of 10 overs per team is required to constitute a match.
2. Delayed Start and Interruptions
2.1. If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 60 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4.
2.2. The latest start time for a match reduced to 10 overs per team shall be 5.00pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.
2.3. A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 10 overs per team, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of overs originally allocated.
2.4. The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions.
Interrupted matches
2.5. First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both sides have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs. The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 8 minutes of playing time lost. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4 or forgone in accordance with Law 11.9.
2.6. Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the side batting second to face the same number of overs as the side batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 4 minutes per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings.
3. Fielding Restrictions
3.1. Two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 25 yards. The ends of each semi-circle shall be joined to the other by a straight line drawn on the field on the same side of the pitch. The fielding restriction area should be marked by ‘dots’ at five-yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring seven inches in diameter.
3.2. For the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 2 fielders shall be permitted outside the field restriction marking defined in 3.1.
3.3. After the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 4 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking.
3.4. Throughout the innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than five fielders shall be permitted to field on the leg side.
3.5. In the event of an infringement of any of the fielding restrictions specified in 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 above the umpire at the striker’s end shall call and signal ‘No Ball.’
3.6. If, in the opinion of either batter, the striker’s end umpire fails to call and signal ‘No Ball’ when either these fielding restrictions or Law 28.4 (Limitation of On-side fielders) have been breached, then immediately the ball becomes dead, either batter may draw the matter to the attention of either umpire. If the striker’s end umpire is able to verify the breach, he/she shall call and signal No Ball. If the striker’s end umpire is unable to verify the breach, then he/she shall confirm that the events of the delivery shall be unchanged.
3.7. In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the restrictions in 3.2 and 3.3 shall be reduced in accordance with the table below. For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the table below shall apply to both the 1st and 2nd innings of the match.
3.8 If time lost results in a reduction of overs and play was stopped during the powerplay, the powerplay will be reduced accordingly. Example: Play stops in Over 6 of a 30 over match (normal powerplay is 6 overs). Overs are reduced to 25, The powerplay is therefore complete at resumption of the game so the powerplay fielding restriction does not apply.
4. Number of Overs Per Bowler
4.1. In a 30 over match no bowler may bowl more than 6 overs in an innings. In a match with an innings of less than 30 overs, no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs available. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, an additional over shall be allowed to the minimum number of bowlers necessary to make up the balance. E.g., in an innings of 22 overs, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 5 overs.
4.2. If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs
allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over.
E.g., match reduced to 21 overs, one bowler has bowled 6 – 3 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 4 overs and 1 bowler may bowl a maximum of 3.
4.3. In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.
5. No Balls and Free Hits
5.1. Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in Law 21.3.
5.2. The delivery following a No Ball shall be a free hit for whichever batter is facing it. Note: this applies to all modes of No Ball except for the first short pitched delivery that passes or would have passed clearly over head-height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. For clarity, such a delivery to be called a No Ball and considered the one short pitched delivery for the over.
5.3. 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 batter is facing it.
5.4. For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a No Ball, even if the delivery for a free hit is called a Wide Ball.
5.5. Field changes are not permitted for free hit deliveries unless there is a change of striker, or the No Ball was the result of a field restriction breach in which case the field may be changed to the extent of correcting the breach. However, in all circumstances, any fielder within 15 yards of the striker may retreat to a position on the same line no more than 15 yards from the striker.
5.6. When the ball is dead and after signalling ‘No Ball’ to the scorers, the bowler’s end umpire will call and signal a free hit by extending one arm straight upwards and moving it in a circular motion.
5.7. The free hit delivery counts as a ball in the over unless it in turn is a Wide Ball or a No Ball.
6. The Bowling of Fast, Short Pitched Deliveries
Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with:
A bowler shall be limited to one fast, short pitched delivery per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched delivery is defined as one that passes or would have passed clearly over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded, and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of Laws 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.
7. Over Rate Penalties
7.1. The fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the 30th over within 1 hour and 55 minutes of playing time.
7.2. In the event of them failing to do so, one fewer fielder shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area in 3.2 and 3.3 than would normally be the case in the Powerplay overs in progress at the time. All penalties in this regard will be imposed at the end of the over in progress when the scheduled or re-scheduled cessation time for the innings was exceeded. The full quota of overs will be completed.
7.3. Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding team of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting team shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made.
7.4. If the innings is completed before the scheduled or re-scheduled cut off time no over rate penalty shall apply.
7.5. If the start of an innings is delayed or an innings is interrupted, the over rate penalty will apply based on the revised number of overs and the re-scheduled cessation time for that innings. The umpires shall inform the fielding team captain when taking the field for the first time and on every subsequent occasion if play is interrupted by the weather or other cause, of the scheduled time for that innings (by which the fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the last over). The time allowed to bowl the overs shall be calculated on the basis of four minutes per over.
7.6. In addition, in all reduced overs matches, the fielding team will be given one over’s leeway, such that the fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the penultimate over by the scheduled or rescheduled cut off time.
8. Wide Ball
The umpires and captains shall ensure that consistency is achieved across both innings for determining what constitutes a wide delivery. The principles set out in Law 22 should be used when umpires and captains are reaching agreement.
9. The Result
9.1. At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both teams have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.
9.2. If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match where the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a
lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the team batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 5. If the target is reached or exceeded, the team batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the team batting first shall be deemed to have won.
9.3. If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the side batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either team was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the team was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).
10. Points System
Points will be awarded as follows:
Win 30 points; Tie 10 points + Bonus Points; Loss Bonus Points only; Cancelled or Abandoned 10 points
.If any team fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 30 points available for that fixture. Any team which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 10 points from its points total.
Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the team is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.
Example: In an uninterrupted 30 over match a team is all out for 147 in 27.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 147 divided by 30 = 4.9. Therefore 3 batting bonus points shall be awarded.
The fielding team shall be awarded full bowling points if only one batter remains.
Match Rules for 25 Over Matches
1. Duration, Hours of Play and Intervals
1.1. Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 5.50pm.
1.2. There will normally be two sessions of play of 1 hour and 40 minutes each separated by an interval of 30 minutes between the innings.
1.3. If the innings of the team batting first is completed prior to the scheduled time for the interval then the interval shall, if considered practicable by the umpires, take place immediately and may be extended with the agreement of the captains and umpires, if necessary, by up to 15 minutes (to a maximum of 45 minutes).
1.4. In delayed or interrupted matches, the captains may agree to forgo the interval, in accordance with Law 11.9, in which case there shall be an interval between innings of 10 minutes.
1.5. Each innings will be allowed one five minute drinks interval midway through the innings, unless there are exceptional circumstances where two or more intervals will be allowed. Time taken for drinks shall be regarded as an interval in accordance with Law 11.8.
1.6. Each match shall consist of a maximum of 25 overs per innings except where time is lost after the scheduled start time due to inclement weather or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, when the number of overs shall be reduced as hereinafter provided.
1.7. If the team batting first is dismissed before the overs to which it is entitled have been bowled, the team batting second shall be entitled to bat for its full entitlement of overs or as further reduced due to inclement weather or other cause. Declarations are not permitted.
1.8. In the event of delays due to weather or other causes, a minimum of 10 overs per team is required to constitute a match.
2. Delayed Start and Interruptions
2.1. If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 60 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4.
2.2. The latest start time for a match reduced to 10 overs per team shall be 4.20pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.
2.3. A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 10 overs per team, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of overs originally allocated.
2.4. The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions.
Interrupted matches
2.5. First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both teams have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs. The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 8 minutes of playing time lost. In calculating the time lost, the time for the interval may be altered in accordance with Law 11.4 or forgone in accordance with Law 11.9.
2.6. Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the team batting second to face the same number of overs as the team batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 4 minutes per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings.
3. Fielding Restrictions
3.1. Two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 25 yards. The ends of each semi-circle shall be joined to the other by a straight line drawn on the field on the same side of the pitch. The fielding restriction area should be marked by ‘dots’ at five-yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring seven inches in diameter.
3.2. For the first 5 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 2 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking defined in 3.1.
3.3. After the first 5 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 4 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking.
3.4. Throughout the innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than five fielders shall be permitted to field on the leg side.
3.5. In the event of an infringement of any of the fielding restrictions specified in 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 above the umpire at the striker’s end shall call and signal ‘No Ball.’
3.6. If, in the opinion of either batter, the striker’s end umpire fails to call and signal ‘No Ball’ when either these fielding restrictions or Law 28.4 (Limitation of On-side fielders) have been breached, then immediately the ball becomes dead, either batter may draw the matter to the attention of either umpire. If the striker’s end umpire is able to verify the breach, he/she shall call and signal No Ball. If the striker’s end umpire is unable to verify the breach, then he/she shall confirm that the events of the delivery shall be unchanged.
3.7. In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the restrictions in 3.2 and 3.3 shall be reduced in accordance with the table below. For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the table below shall apply to both the 1st and 2nd innings of the match.
Overs in match Number of overs with fielding restrictions 10 - 12 2
13 – 17 3
18 – 22 4
23 – 25 5
3.8. If time lost results in a reduction of overs and play was stopped during the powerplay, the powerplay will be reduced accordingly. Example: Play stops in Over 5 of a 25 over match (normal powerplay is 5 overs). Overs are reduced to 20, The powerplay is therefore complete at resumption of the game so the powerplay fielding restriction does not apply.
4. Number of Overs Per Bowler
4.1. In a 25 over match no bowler may bowl more than 5 overs in an innings. In a match with an innings of less than 25 overs, no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs available. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, an additional over shall be allowed to the minimum number of bowlers necessary to make up the balance.
E.g., in an innings of 17 overs, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 4 overs.
4.2. If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over.
E.g., match reduced to 16 overs, one bowler has bowled 5 – 3 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 3 overs and 1 bowler may bowl a maximum of 2.
4.3. In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.
5. Wides and No Balls
5.1. A ball that is too far from the batter to strike will be called a wide. A ball will not be called a wide, no matter how wide it may be, if the batter manages to hit it with bat or body.
5.2. Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in Law 21.3.
5.3. As regards No Balls, Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with:
A bowler shall be limited to one fast short pitched ball per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply
even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched ball is defined as one that passes or would have passed over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of Laws 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.
5.4. Except in the last over, 2 runs will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled, but no extra ball will be allocated.
5.5. In the last over, 1 run will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled and the ball will need to be re-bowled.
6. Over Rate Penalties
6.1. The fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the 25th over within 1 hour and 35 minutes of playing time.
6.2. In the event of them failing to do so, one fewer fielder shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area in 3.2 and 3.3 than would normally be the case in the Powerplay overs in progress at the time. All penalties in this regard will be imposed at the end of the over in progress when the scheduled or re-scheduled cessation time for the innings was exceeded. The full quota of overs will be completed.
6.3. Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding team of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting team shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made
6.4. If the innings is completed before the scheduled or re-scheduled cut off time no over rate penalty shall apply.
6.5. If the start of an innings is delayed or an innings is interrupted, the over rate penalty will apply based on the revised number of overs and the re-scheduled cessation time for that innings. The umpires shall inform the fielding team captain when taking the field for the first time and on every subsequent occasion if play is interrupted by the weather or other cause, of the scheduled time for that innings (by which the fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the last over). The time allowed to bowl the overs shall be calculated on the basis of four minutes per over.
6.6. In addition, in all reduced overs matches, the fielding team will be given one over’s leeway, such that the fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the penultimate over by the scheduled or rescheduled cut off time.
7. The Result
7.1. At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both teams have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.
7.2. If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match where the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the team batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 5. If the target is reached or exceeded, the team batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the team batting first shall be deemed to have won.
7.3. If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the team batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either team was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the team was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).
8. Points System
Points will be awarded as follows:
Win 30 points; Tie 10 points + Bonus Points; Loss Bonus Points only Cancelled or Abandoned 10 points
If any team fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 30 points available for that fixture. Any team which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 10 points from its points total.
Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the team is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.
Example: In an uninterrupted 25 over match a team is all out for 122 in 22.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 122 divided by 25 = 4.88. Therefore 3 batting bonus points shall be awarded.
The fielding team shall be awarded full bowling points if only one batter remains.
T20 Competition - Playing Conditions
1. Management
The Competition shall be under the control of the League and all decisions relating to these rules or to matches played in the Competition shall be final and binding.
2. Playing Conditions
2.1 The conduct of all matches will be governed by The Laws of Cricket (2017 Code 3rd Edition - 2022) and all relevant ECB regulations and guidelines, except as stated otherwise in these rules.
2.2 In the Cup Competition, the teams will be split into 2 groups and will play each other within their allotted group home and away on specific dates set by the League. Matches will be played in accordance with the T20 Cup Competition Playing Rules, on page 30.
2.3 In the Plate Competition, the teams will be split into 2 groups and will play each other once within their allotted groups on specific dates set by the League. Matches will be played in accordance with the T20 Plate Competition Playing Rules, on page 35.
3. Umpires and Scorers
3.1 Each team must provide an umpire. Teams are recommended to provide a qualified umpire who is a member of the ECB ACO and has completed both Stage 1 and 2 courses or their equivalents.
3.2 Each team must provide a scorer. All teams are recommended to provide a qualified scorer at each match.
4. Venue (Pitches, Outfield and Surrounds)
4.1 The boundary must be defined, and markers used if available. The boundary will be a minimum of 45 metres from the middle wicket from each end (if the ground dimensions allow), maximum of 55 metres each end at a 45-degree angle.
4.2 Some venues may vary depending upon limitations.
4.3 Artificial pitches may be used In the Plate Competition
5.
Eligibility
5.1 The minimum age for Open Age cricket in this competition is the U13 age group.
5.2 For juniors playing in the Cup Competition, the junior must be in Year 8 (if a County Age Group player), and at least 12 years old, or Year 9 (if a Club player), and at least 13 years old, on 1st September of the preceding year.
5.3 The junior’s parents, club coach and an independent Level 2 coach must sign and adhere to the terms set out in the HWCL U13 Consent Form which can be found on the HWCL website.
5.4 County players are only permitted to play in the Cup Competition.
5.5 County players are defined as any players who are named in a Women’s County, County U18 or County U16 squad in the current season.
5.6 If a player is named in a County Development or MCC Hub Squad, they will not be classed as a County Player for this competition.
5.7 Any player that has represented their country at any level is only permitted to play in the Cup Competition.
5.8 Clubs with multiple teams in the Cup and Plate Competitions: The Plate Competition is intended for the development of club players. Clubs may enter a team for both the Cup and Plate Competitions. However, it is expected that these will consist of different players i.e. A player will not play in both Cup and Plate fixtures (if dates are different, unless approved by the Committee). This is to ensure that the correct ability is afforded for a fair competition.
6. Balls
6.1 All league fixtures will be played with cricket balls that have been approved by the League (see page 4).
6.2 One new ball will be used from the commencement of each innings. New balls are to be supplied by the home club.
6.3 The home club is responsible for providing the match balls.
7. Interference by Weather – DLS Method in the Cup Competition
7.1 Whenever possible, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method will be used to calculate the Target Score.
7.2 If the umpires (or captains, where there are no non-playing umpires) decide that it is not possible to obtain a target score by using the DLS method, this decision shall be agreed before the toss and the scorers informed.
8. Penalty Runs
8.1 Penalty runs to be awarded under the Laws of Cricket (2017 Code 3rd Edition 2022), shall only be awarded as follows:
• In all matches, for illegal fielding (Law 28.2).
• In all matches, for a ball striking a protective helmet placed on the ground (Law 28.3).
• For breaches of the law on player behaviour (Law 42), provided there is at least one qualified non-playing umpire.
• On Finals Day, where panel umpires have been appointed, the awarding of penalty runs shall apply in full.
9. Results
All results will need to be entered into Play Cricket by 9pm on the match day.
10. League Positions
League positions in each Competition will be determined by the total number of points gained less penalty points. In the event of two or more teams finishing on equal points, league position will be determined in the following order:
• The team with the highest net run rate from completed matches, but if still level
• The team with the highest runs per wicket, calculated by aggregating all runs scored in completed matches divided by the total number of wickets lost.
11. Finals Day
11.1 There will be a Finals Day on September 13 (Reserve Date: TBC).
11.2 The two winners of the Cup Competition groups will play each other and the two winners of the Plate Competition groups will play each other.
11.3 If either of the group winners cannot make Finals Day, the next best placed team in that group will go through.
11.4 Players may only play in the Finals Day matches if they have played at least one group match.
11.5 For the Finals Day, umpires will be appointed by the League from the Umpires Panel. The cost of providing those umpires will be paid by the League.
11.6 In the event of a tie on Finals Day, the winner will be determined in accordance with Section 12 below.
12. Super Over
A ‘Super Over’ will be bowled by each side as follows:
12.1 Each captain will nominate three batters and one bowler.
12.2 The team that batted second in the match shall bat first in the Super Over and face one over of six legitimate balls bowled by the nominated bowler. The other team shall bat second and face one over of six legitimate balls bowled by the nominated bowler.
12.3 If either team loses two wickets in its over then its innings will end. The winner will be the team which scores most runs.
12.4 If the scores are equal, then there will be a second super over with different batters and bowlers nominated under 12.1, except that a batter who has not commenced their innings may be nominated again.
12.5 The sequence of 12.1 to 12.4 will continue with the team batting first alternating until a result is achieved.
12.6 The umpires will allow 10 minutes between the end of the match and the Super Over and a maximum of 10 minutes between each Super Over.
T20 Cup Competition Match Rules
1. Duration
1.1. One innings per team, each limited to a maximum of 20 overs.
1.2. In a match that has a delayed start or is interrupted each team must have faced (or had the opportunity to face) a minimum of 5 overs to constitute a match.
2. Hours of Play
2.1. Matches will start at 1.00pm. For the purpose of determining the overs remaining in a match interrupted in the second innings, the Close of Play will be 5.00pm. Declarations are not permitted.
2.2. The interval between innings shall be 20 minutes.
3. Over Rate
3.1. The fielding team must be in position to bowl the first ball of the 20th over within 75 minutes of playing time.
3.2. In the event of them failing to do so, one fewer fielder shall be permitted outside the fielding restriction area in 6.2 and 6.3 than would normally be the case in the Powerplay overs in progress at the time. All penalties in this regard will be imposed at the end of the over in progress when the scheduled or re-scheduled cessation time for the innings was exceeded. The full quota of overs will be completed.
3.3. In reduced over matches, the fielding team has a one over leeway in addition to any time that the umpires may allow for stoppages.
3.4. Umpires are instructed to apply a strict interpretation of time wasting by the batters (5 run penalties). Batters are expected to be ready for the start of a new over as soon as the bowler is ready to bowl.
3.5. Time may be added at the discretion of the umpires for any stoppage or delay in play. When the umpires agree that time is to be allowed for a stoppage, they shall inform the captain of the fielding team of the time to be allowed at an appropriate opportunity. In the event of frequent moving of the sightscreens, the batting team shall assume responsibility unless other arrangements have been made.
4. Delayed Start and Interruptions
4.1. If there is a delayed start or an interruption or interruptions at any time during the match due to inclement weather, or for any other cause the umpires deem reasonable, the first 60 minutes of aggregated time lost will be disregarded.
4.2. The latest start time for a match reduced to 5 overs per side shall be 4.00pm, unless the captains and umpires agree to abandon the match earlier.
4.3. A result can only be achieved in a match of less than 5 overs per team, if both have the opportunity to bat for the full number of overs originally allocated.
4.4. The umpires shall inform the captains and the scorers of the number of overs lost, the revised timings, the number of overs to be bowled and the applicable fielding and bowling restrictions.
Interrupted matches
4.5. First innings - When there is a delay to the start of the match or an interruption during the first innings, the object shall be to rearrange the number of overs so that both teams have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs. The number of overs lost to be calculated based on one over per innings for each full 8 minutes of playing time lost.
4.6. Second innings - If, owing to a delayed start to the second innings or a suspension of play during the second innings, there is insufficient time for the team batting second to face the same number of overs as the team batting first, the umpires will re-calculate, on every occasion, the number of overs to be bowled based on the time remaining in the match to the scheduled close of play, based on 4 minutes per over. In calculating the number of overs remaining to be bowled the number shall be rounded up. The number of overs available to the team batting second should never be more than those that were available to the team batting first following the last recalculation of the number of overs available in the first innings.
5. Timed Out
The incoming batter must be in a position to take guard, or for her partner to be ready to receive the next ball, within 1 minute 30 seconds of the fall of the previous wicket. Any infringement of this rule shall result in the incoming batter being dismissed Timed Out by the umpires. An appeal by the fielding team is not required.
6. Fielding Restrictions
6.1. Two semi-circles shall be drawn on the field of play. The semi-circles shall have as their centre the middle stump at either end of the pitch. The radius of each of the semi-circles shall be 25 yards. The ends of each semi-circle shall be joined to the other by a straight line drawn on the field on the same side of the pitch. The fielding restriction area should be marked by ‘dots’ at five-yard intervals, each ‘dot’ to be covered by a white plastic or rubber (but not metal) disc measuring seven inches in diameter.
6.2. For the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 2 fielders shall be permitted outside the field restriction marking defined in 6.1.
6.3. After the first 6 overs of each innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than 4 fielders shall be permitted to be outside the field restriction marking.
6.4. Throughout the innings, at the instant of delivery, no more than five fielders shall be permitted to field on the leg side.
6.5. In the event of an infringement of any of the fielding restrictions specified in 6.2, 6.3 and 6.4 above the umpire at the striker’s end shall call and signal ‘No Ball.’
6.6. If, in the opinion of either batter, the striker’s end umpire fails to call and signal ‘No Ball’ when either these fielding restrictions or Law 28.4 (Limitation of On-side fielders) have been breached, then immediately the ball becomes dead, either batter may draw the matter to the attention of either umpire. If the striker’s end umpire is able to verify the breach, he/she shall call and signal
No Ball. If the striker’s end umpire is unable to verify the breach, then he/she shall confirm that the events of the delivery shall be unchanged.
6.7. In circumstances when the number of overs of the batting team is reduced, the restrictions in 6.2 and 6.3 shall be reduced in accordance with the table below. For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the table below shall apply to both the 1st and 2nd innings of the match.
6.8. If time lost results in a reduction of overs and play was stopped during the powerplay, the powerplay will be reduced accordingly. Example: Play stops in Over 4 of a 20 over match (normal powerplay is 6 overs). Overs are reduced to 12, The powerplay is therefore complete at resumption of the game so the powerplay fielding restriction does not apply.
7. Overs Per Bowler
7.1. No bowler may bowl more than 4 overs. In a match with an innings of less than 20 overs, no bowler may bowl more than one fifth of the total overs available. Where the total overs are not divisible by 5, an additional over shall be allowed to the minimum number of bowlers necessary to make up the balance.
E.g., in an innings of 12 overs, a maximum of 2 bowlers may bowl 3 overs.
7.2. If a reduction in overs results in one or more bowlers having exceeded the newly calculated maximum, then the umpires shall calculate the overs allowed for the remaining bowlers. If the interruption occurs mid-over and upon resumption that bowler has exceeded the new maximum allocation, that bowler shall be allowed to finish the incomplete over.
E.g., match reduced to 14 overs, one bowler has bowled 4 – 2 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 3 overs and 2 bowlers may bowl a maximum of 2.
7.3. In the event of a bowler breaking down and being unable to complete an over, another bowler will bowl the remaining balls. Such part of an over will count as a full over only in so far as each bowler’s limit is concerned.
8. No Balls and Free Hits
8.1. Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in Law 21.3.
8.2. The delivery following a No Ball shall be a free hit for whichever batter is facing it. Note: this applies to all modes of No Ball except for the first short pitched
delivery that passes or would have passed clearly over head-height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease. For clarity, such a delivery to be called a No Ball and considered the one short pitched delivery for the over.
8.3. 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 batter is facing it.
8.4. For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a No Ball, even if the delivery for a free hit is called a Wide Ball.
8.5. Field changes are not permitted for free hit deliveries unless there is a change of striker, or the No Ball was the result of a field restriction breach in which case the field may be changed to the extent of correcting the breach. However, in all circumstances, any fielder within 15 yards of the striker may retreat to a position on the same line no more than 15 yards from the striker.
8.6. When the ball is dead and after signalling ‘No Ball’ to the scorers, the bowler’s end umpire will call and signal a free hit by extending one arm straight upwards and moving it in a circular motion.
8.7. The free hit delivery counts as a ball in the over unless it in turn is a Wide Ball or a No Ball.
9. The Bowling of Fast, Short Pitched Deliveries
Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with:
A bowler shall be limited to one fast, short pitched delivery per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched delivery is defined as one that passes or would have passed clearly over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded, and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of Laws 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.
10. Wide Ball
The umpires and captains shall ensure that consistency is achieved across both innings for determining what constitutes a wide delivery. The principles set out in Law 22 should be used when umpires and captains are reaching agreement.
11. The Result
11.1. At the completion of an uninterrupted match, in which both teams have the opportunity to bat for the same number of overs the match shall be won by the team which has scored the most runs in its completed innings. A tie shall be achieved if the scores are level at the conclusion of the match, irrespective of the number of wickets lost by either team.
11.2. If DLS is being used, then after an interruption in play after the start of the match where the number of overs to be received by either side is reduced to a
lesser number than allocated before the start, then a revised target score shall be set for the team batting second to achieve. This will be calculated using DLS professional version 5. If the target is reached or exceeded, the team batting second shall be deemed to have won. If the par score is equalled, the match is a Tie. If the par score is not reached, the team batting first shall be deemed to have won.
11.3. If DLS is not used, then where applicable, a target score for the team batting second will be set calculated based on the average run rate (to two decimal places) achieved in the first innings multiplied by the number of overs available in the second innings. The winner of the match will be the team scoring the higher number of runs per over, with the exception that, if the team batting second reach or exceed the target score at any point during their innings, they will be deemed to have won. If either team was dismissed before receiving the full allocation of overs the runs per over calculation shall be based on the number of overs the team was entitled to receive (either at the commencement of its innings or as reduced due to subsequent interruptions to play).
12.
Points System
Points will be awarded as follows:
Win 30 points; Tie 10 points + Bonus Points; Loss Bonus Points only; Cancelled or Abandoned 10 points
If any team fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 30 points available for that fixture.
Any team which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 10 points from its points total.
Bonus points: as per the table below. For batting bonus points the runs per over is calculated as the number of runs scored divided by the number of overs faced, except when the team is dismissed, in which case the number of overs faced becomes those available for the innings.
Example: In an uninterrupted 20 over match a team is all out for 125 in 17.2 overs. Runs per over is calculated as 125 divided by 20 = 6.25. Therefore 4 batting bonus points shall be awarded.
T20 Plate Competition Playing Rules
1. Teams
1.1. Each team comprises of 8 players.
1.2. If a team has less than 8 players the opposition shall nominate a player, or players, to bat twice.
1.3. In the event of injury to a player, a substitute will be allowed to field, but not bowl. Should such an injury prevent the player batting, a substitute will be allowed to bat only with the permission of the opposing team’s captain.
2. Start Times and Duration
2.1. All matches will start at 1:00pm. However, teams may agree a start time on confirmation of the game. This should be no earlier than 11:00am.
2.2. Each game shall consist of one innings per team. Each innings is made up of 20 overs.
3. Batting and Scoring
3.1. Each batting team will commence their innings with 200 runs.
3.2. The batting team shall be divided into pairs, each pair batting for 5 overs regardless of whether they lose their wicket.
3.3. Each wicket will result in 5 runs being deducted from the batting team’s total.
3.4. Batters shall change ends at the fall of each wicket except on the last ball of an over.
3.5. Runs will be scored in the normal way, as will byes and leg byes. See Sections 5.4 and 5.5 as regards runs scored from wides and no balls.
3.6. At the end of each 5 overs the batting pairs will change.
4. Bowling and Fielding
4.1. Each over shall consist of 6 balls.
4.2. No bowler may bowl more than 4 overs.
4.3. A bowler may not bowl consecutive overs.
4.4. LBW will not be a form of dismissal unless a batter deliberately blocks their stumps with their pads twice.
4.5. With the exception of the wicketkeeper, no U18 player may field within 11 yards of the wicket, measured from the middle stump except behind the wicket on the off-side. Such a fielder may move into the restricted area to field a ball provided she was outside the area when the stroke was made.
5. Wides and No Balls
5.1. A ball that is too far from the batter to strike will be called a wide. A ball will not be called a wide, no matter how wide it may be, if the batter manages to hit it with bat or body.
5.2. Underarm bowling is not permitted. If a bowler bowls a ball underarm the umpire shall call and signal ‘No Ball’ and follow the procedures in Law 21.3.
5.3. As regards No Balls, Law 41.6.1 shall be replaced with: A bowler shall be limited to one fast short pitched ball per over. The umpire at the bowler’s end will make it clear to both the bowler and the batters at the wicket when such a delivery within this limit is bowled. This ruling shall apply even though the striker has made contact with the ball with her bat, person or equipment. A short pitched ball is defined as one that passes or would have passed over shoulder height of the striker standing upright at the crease. It is unfair if the limit is exceeded and the umpire shall call and signal No Ball on each such occasion. In addition, the umpires will adopt the procedures of Laws 41.6.3 and 41.6.4.
5.4. Except in the last over, 2 runs will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled, but no extra ball will be allocated.
5.5. In the last over, 1 run will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled and the ball will need to be re-bowled.
6. Results
6.1. The team with the highest number of runs will be deemed the winner.
6.2. A tie will result in both teams scoring the same number of runs.
7. Points System
Points will be awarded as follows:
Win 4 points
Tie 2 points
Loss 0 points
Cancelled or Abandoned 2 points
If any team fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 4 points available for that fixture.
Any team which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 2 points from its points total.
Softball League Rules
1. Management
The Competition shall be under the control of the League and all decisions relating to these rules or to matches played in the Competition shall be final and binding.
2. Competition Structure and Fixtures
2.1. All teams in the Competition will play each other once.
2.2. Fixtures will be arranged by the clubs with the home team providing a preferred playing day. Matches can be played on any day of the week with midweek games played in the evening.
2.3. All fixtures must be completed by 6 September 2026.
3. Pitches
3.1. Games can be played on either grass or artificial pitches but the pitch must be located on the square.
3.2. There should be two sets of wickets, 22 yards apart.
3.3. Boundaries should ideally be a minimum of 40 metres long.
4. Eligibility
4.1. The minimum age for Open Age cricket in the Women’s Softball League is the U13 age group. The junior must be in Year 8, and at least 12 years old, on 1st September of the preceding year. Further, the junior’s parents, club coach and an independent Level 2 coach must sign and adhere to the terms set out in the HWCL U13 Consent Form which can be found on the HWCL website.
4.2. At least 50% of the intended team players must be aged 15 years or older unless agreed by both captains.
4.3. Players who play in the Hardball Premier league, County players, and current or former international players cannot play in this competition, subject to application to the HWCL sub-committee.
5. Equipment
5.1. An incrediball is to be used in all games. The host club is responsible for providing the match ball.
5.2. One ball to be used for each match.
5.3. Any protective equipment is at the players’ discretion.
6. Teams
6.1. Each team comprises of 8 players.
6.2. In the event of injury to a player, a substitute will be allowed to field, but not bowl. Should such an injury prevent the player batting, a substitute will be allowed to bat only with the permission of the opposing team’s captain.
7.
Duration
Each game shall consist of one innings per team. Each innings is made up of 16 overs (6 balls an over).
8. Batting and Scoring
8.1. Each batting team will commence their innings with 200 runs.
8.2. The batting team shall be divided into pairs, each pair batting for 4 overs (24 balls) regardless of whether they lose their wicket.
8.3. Each wicket will result in 5 runs being deducted from the batting team’s total.
8.4. Batters shall change ends at the fall of each wicket except on the last ball of an over.
8.5. The innings will be bowled from one end. At the end of each over the batters shall change ends unless there is a fall of a wicket.
8.6. A batter may be out either bowled, caught, run out, stumped or hit wicket. There is no LBW law applied to this competition.
8.7. Runs will be scored in the normal way, as will byes and leg byes. See Sections 10.3 and 10.4 as regards runs scored from wides and no balls.
8.8. At the end of each 4 overs the batting pairs will change.
9. Bowling and Fielding
9.1. No bowler may bowl more than 3 overs.
9.2. No bowler may bowl consecutive overs.
9.3. Bowling will take place from one end only.
9.4. With the exception of the wicketkeeper, no fielder may field within 11 yards of the wicket, measured from the middle stump except behind the wicket on the off-side. A fielder may move into the restricted area to field a ball provided she was outside the area when the stroke was made.
10. Wides and No Balls
10.1. A ball that is too far from the batter to strike will be called a wide. A ball will not be called a wide, no matter how wide it may be, if the batter manages to hit it with bat or body.
10.2. If a ball bounces more than twice before reaching the batter it will be called a no ball.
10.3. Except in the last over, 2 runs will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled, but no extra ball will be allocated.
10.4. In the last over, 1 run will be awarded to the batting team for each wide ball and no ball bowled and the ball will need to be re-bowled.
11. Results
11.1. The team with the highest number of runs will be deemed the winner.
11.2. A tie will result in both teams scoring the same number of runs.
11.3. Results will need to be entered into Play-Cricket.
12. Points System
Points will be awarded as follows: Win 4 points; Tie 2 points; Loss 0 points; Cancelled/Abandoned 2 points If any team fails to fulfil a fixture, the opposing team shall be awarded the full 4 points available for that fixture. Any team which fails to fulfil a fixture shall additionally be deducted 2 points from its points total.
Fixtures 2026 Premiership
All T35 format
26th April
Harpenden v Bedford
St Albans v Ampthill
Broxbourne v Luton Women & Girls
3rd May
Broxbourne v Harpenden
Luton Women & Girls v Ampthill
Bedford v St Albans
7th June
Broxbourne v St Albans
Ampthill v Bedford
Harpenden v Luton Women & Girls
28th June
Luton Women & Girls v St Albans
Harpenden v Ampthill
Broxbourne v Bedford
5th July
St Albans v Harpenden
Ampthill v Broxbourne
Bedford v Luton Women & Girls
19th July
Bedford v Harpenden
Ampthill v St Albans
Luton Women & Girls v Broxbourne
9th August
Harpenden v Broxbourne
Ampthill v Luton Women & Girls
St Albans v Bedford
16th August
St Albans v Luton Women & Girls
23rd August
St Albans v Broxbourne
Bedford v Ampthill
Luton Women & Girls v Harpenden
30th August
Ampthill v Harpenden
Bedford v Broxbourne
6th September
Harpenden v St Albans
Broxbourne v Ampthill
Luton Women & Girls v Bedford
Championship
All T30 format
26th April
St Margaretsbury v Abbots Langley
Ickwell v Flitwick
Bishop's Stortford II v Redbourn
3rd May
Bishop's Stortford II v St Margaretsbury
Redbourn v Ickwell
Abbots Langley v Flitwick
7th June
Flitwick v Bishop's Stortford II
Ickwell v Abbots Langley
St Margaretsbury v Redbourn
28th June
Redbourn v Flitwick
St Margaretsbury v Ickwell
Bishop's Stortford II v Abbots Langley
5th July
Flitwick v St Margaretsbury
Ickwell v Bishop's Stortford II
Abbots Langley v Redbourn
19th July
Abbots Langley v St Margaretsbury
Flitwick v Ickwell
Redbourn v Bishop's Stortford II
9th August
St Margaretsbury v Bishop's Stortford II
Ickwell v Redbourn
Flitwick v Abbots Langley
23rd August
Bishop's Stortford II v Flitwick
Abbots Langley v Ickwell
Redbourn v St Margaretsbury
30th August
Flitwick v Redbourn
Ickwell v St Margaretsbury
Abbots Langley v Bishop's Stortford I!
6th September
St Margaretsbury v Flitwick
Bishop's Stortford II v Ickwell
Redbourn v Abbots Langley
Division One
All T25 format
3rd May
Radlett v Luton Town and Indians
Hitchin II v Luton Women & Girls II
Harpenden III v Harpenden II
Tring v Cokenach
7th June
Hitchin II v Radlett
Cokenach v Berkhamsted II
Luton Women & Girls II v Tring
Harpenden III v Luton Town and Indians
28th June
Tring v Radlett
Luton Town & Indians v Hitchin II
Berkhamsted II v Luton Women & Girls II
Harpenden II v Cokenach
5th July
Luton Town & Indians v Tring
Luton Women & Girls II v Harpenden II
Hitchin II v Harpenden III
Radlett v Berkhamsted II
19th July
Cokenach v Harpenden III
Tring v Hitchin II
Berkhamsted II v Luton Town & Indians
Harpenden II v Radlett
9th August
Harpenden III v Tring
Luton Town & Indians v Harpenden II
Hitchin II v Berkhamsted II
Cokenach v Luton Women & Girls II
23rd August
Berkhamsted II v Tring
Radlett v Cokenach
Harpenden II v Hitchin II
Harpenden III v Luton Women & Girls II
30th August
Luton Town & Indians v Cokenach
Berkhamsted II v Harpenden III
Luton Women & Girls II v Radlett
Tring v Harpenden II
6th September
Cokenach v Hitchin II
Harpenden II v Berkhamsted II
Radlett v Harpenden III
Luton Town & Indians v Luton Women & Girls II
Softball Fixtures
All T16 format
Week 1 – Wk beginning Monday 27th April
St Albans v Harpenden
Hitchin II v Preston
Abbots Langley v Hertford
Hitchin v Kings Langley
Week 2 - Wk beginning Monday 11th May
Harpenden v Abbots Langley
Hertford v Redbourn
St Albans v Hitchin
Hitchin II v Kings Langley
Week 3 – Wk beginning Monday 1st June
Kings Langley v St Albans
Abbots Langley v Hitchin
Preston v Hertford
Redbourn v Harpenden
Week 4 – Wk beginning Monday 15th June
Kings Langley v Abbots Langley
Harpenden v Preston
St Albans v Hitchin II
Hitchin v Redbourn
Week 5 – Wk beginning Monday 29th June
Hertford v Hitchin II
Redbourn v Kings Langley
Abbots Langley v St Albans
Preston v Hitchin
Week 6 – Wk beginning 13th July
Kings Langley v Preston
Hertford v Harpenden
Hitchin II v Abbots Langley
St Albans v Redbourn
Week 7 – Wk beginning 27th July
Hitchin v Hertford
Hitchin II v Harpenden
Preston v St Albans
Redbourn v Abbots Langley
Week 8 – Wk beginning 10th August
Abbots Langley v Preston
Kings Langley v Hertford
Harpenden v Hitchin
Redbourn v Hitchin II
Week 9 – Wk beginning 24th August
Harpenden v Kings Langley
Hitchin v Hitchin II
Preston v Redbourn
Hertford v St Albans
Cup Competition
Cup & Plate - All T20 format
Group A
10th May
Harpenden v St Albans
Bishop's Stortford II v Broxbourne
17th May
St Albans v Bishop's Stortford II
Broxbourne v Harpenden
31st May
St Albans v Broxbourne
Harpenden v Bishop's Stortford II
14th June
St Albans v Harpenden
Broxbourne v Bishop's Stortford II
26th July
Bishop's Stortford II v St Albans
Harpenden v Broxbourne
2nd August
Broxbourne v St Albans
Bishop's Stortford II v Harpenden
Group B
10th May
Ampthill v Luton Women & Girls
Bedford v Flitwick
17th May
Luton Women & Girls v Bedford Flitwick v Ampthill
31st May
Luton Women & Girls v Flitwick Ampthill v Bedford
14th June
Luton Women & Girls v Ampthill Flitwick v Bedford
26th July
Bedford v Luton Women & Girls
Ampthill v Flitwick
2nd August
Flitwick v Luton Women & Girls
Bedford v Ampthill
Plate Competition
Group A
10th May
Luton Women & Girls II v Redbourn
Ickwell v Harpenden II
Hitchin II v Dunstable
17th May
Hitchin II v Luton Women & Girls II
Dunstable v Ickwell
Redbourn v Harpenden II
14th June
Harpenden II v Luton Women & Girls II
Ickwell v Hitchin II
Redbourn v Dunstable
26th July
Hitchin II v Redbourn
Dunstable v Harpenden II
Luton Women & Girls II v Ickwell
2nd August
Luton Women & Girls II v Dunstable
Ickwell v Redbourn
Harpenden II v Hitchin II
Group B
10th May
Luton Town and Indians v Tring
Hertford v Kings Langley
St Margaretsbury v Abbots Langley
17th May
Kings Langley v Radlett
Tring v St Margaretsbury
Hertford v Abbots Langley
31st May
Radlett v Hertford
Abbots Langley v Luton Town and Indians
St Margaretsbury v Kings Langley
14th June
Abbots Langley v Tring
Radlett v St Margaretsbury
Kings Langley v Luton Town and Indians
26th July
St Margaretsbury v Hertford
Tring v Kings Langley
Luton Town and Indians v Radlett
2nd August
Kings Langley v Abbots Langley
Hertford v Luton Town and Indians
Radlett v Tring
FINALS DAY (for Cup and Plate competitions): Sunday 13 September, 1.00pm
16th August
Luton Town and Indians v St Margaretsbury
Abbots Langley v Radlett
Tring v Hertford
Safeguarding Policy
The Hertfordshire Women’s Cricket League is committed to ensuring everyone participating in cricket does so in a safe, friendly, secure, and enjoyable environment. Everyone, whether as a player, coach, official, administrator, staff member, volunteer, spectator, parent, or carer has a role to play. Individually and collectively, it is our actions, both on and off the field which can help create a positive and inclusive culture.
We will do this by:
• Having the right people in place
• Creating the right culture and environment
• Ensuring clear processes are in place for reporting and responding to safeguarding concerns
• Adopting the ECB’s Safe Hands Policy and Guidance
Having the Right People in Place
Whilst everyone has a responsibility for Safeguarding, we also have a designated League Safeguarding Officer who has completed specialist Safe Hands training provided by the ECB.
The League Safeguarding Officer is:
• The first point of contact for all children, parents/carers volunteers, and members of the League
• Responsible for ensuring that everyone who is working with children is subject to appropriate safer recruitment processes
• A member of our committee
• A source of safeguarding advice for the League, its committee, and members
• The Leagues’ main point of contact for the County Safeguarding Officer, the Cricket Regulator Safeguarding Team and other external safeguarding agencies
• The person responsible for ensuring correct and comprehensive reporting procedures exist for raising and managing safeguarding concerns.
Creating the Right Culture and Environment
All participants in cricket, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ability or disability, have the right to enjoy the game in an environment that is safe from abuse of any kind. The League recognises that safeguarding starts with setting high standards and promoting a positive culture which provides the best environment for participants to enjoy themselves and the game of cricket.
Anyone in a specialist role within the League is also required to complete the Safeguarding for Specialist Roles training with the relevant additional module. This includes Captains and Team Managers, Coaches and Activators, Officials (Umpires and Scorers) and Committee Members.
• We encourage all of our members to complete the ECB online Safeguarding Induction.
• We ensure that all individuals working at or for the League are provided with the necessary support through education, training and continued professional development (CPD)
• We ensure that all individuals working at or for the League are recruited and appointed in accordance with ECB Safer Recruitment guidance and relevant legislation and are committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and fun experience for children
• We promote a listening culture where the views of children, parents/carers, volunteers and other League members are proactively sought and acted upon. This helps us to create an environment where people have the opportunity and confidence to raise concerns, including concerns about poor practice, abuse and neglect
• We seek to create a partnership with parents/carers so that they know what to expect from us and what we expect of them
• We ensure that external organisations who are delivering services on behalf of the League have safeguarding measures in place which meet the requirements of Safe Hands.
Reporting and Responding to Safeguarding Concerns
It is our aim that everyone from the League should feel confident to raise a concern, no matter how small. We believe that raising and dealing with concerns quickly, when they occur, supports a proactive safeguarding culture.
All suspicions, concerns and allegations will be taken seriously. We will follow the 3R’s with every concern: Responding appropriately, Recording confidentiality and Reporting where necessary, ensuring that concerns are dealt with in a fair and prompt manner.
The League recognises that it is not the responsibility of club members to determine or investigate if abuse has taken place, but to act upon and report any concerns promptly.
We ensure that confidential information relating to safeguarding matters is shared appropriately and only with those who need to know. Information may need to be shared with the County Safeguarding Officer, Cricket Regulator Safeguarding Team, or local agencies with statutory responsibility for safeguarding. If we are unsure, we will seek advice from our County Safeguarding Officer.
Adopting the ECB’s Safe Hands Policy and Guidance
• The League has formally adopted the ECB’s Safe Hands Policy and guidance as part of our constitution
• The League works within the ECB Safeguarding Procedure for the management of safeguarding investigations
• We ensure that all individuals who work and volunteer at or for our League understand how Safe Hands applies to them.
League Commitment
Hertfordshire Women’s Cricket League is committed to this Safeguarding Policy Statement and will review it on an annual basis.
League Safeguarding Officer: Andy Knill-Jones. safeguarding@hertswomenscl.co.uk
Registration and Match Day Procedures
Team selections
Each captain (or designated person) must record their players’ names via https:// hertswomenscl.play-cricket.com/ by 9am on the day of the match. Please note, team sheets cannot be entered through the HWCL League website. A list of registered players is recorded on the HWCL Play-Cricket site and the players for the particular match can be selected by clicking on each player. All physical team sheets must be counter-signed as valid by one non-playing umpire (where there are umpires) and by the opposition captain.
Match Day - before the toss
A minimum of 15 minutes and maximum of 30 minutes before the start time, both captains shall hand a completed team sheet to the umpires or, where no nonplaying umpire, to the opposing captain.
A match cannot start until completed team sheets have been exchanged
The Toss.
In accordance with Law 13.4, where either panel umpires or qualified club umpires are appointed, it is a requirement that the two umpires are present at the toss. If only one umpire is appointed, then that sole appointed umpire is required to be present at the toss. This is to ensure that all relevant match rules and regulations are discussed and agreed, including but not limited to the various ECB regulations.
Facilities Marking
The continued improvement of standards throughout the League benefits all clubs and enhances the status of the League. In the HWCL, the following reporting procedures will apply:
In the Premiership, facilities will be the sole responsibility of the umpires officiating on the day and will be entered into the ‘whostheumpire’ website.
In the Championship, Division 1, and T20 Cup & Plate Competitions, we would encourage away teams to enter a facilities report into Play-Cricket. If they would like to report any concerns with regards to pitch and facility suitability, they should email: admin@hertswomenscl.co.uk
For 2026, as a minimum, we would ask clubs to adhere to the basic standard for: 1. Pitch; 2. Outfield; 3. Sightscreens; 4. Boundaries; 5. Scorebox; 6. Pavilion
The 'basic' guidelines are set out on page 52.
Cricket balls
The home club is required to supply umpires with all match balls and sufficient spare balls. The umpires may delay the start of a match if no suitable spare balls are provided.
After the Match
Results reporting
All via: https://hertswomenscl.play-cricket.com/
The home team is responsible for posting the match result on play-cricket, as follows:
a) By 9pm on the day of the match: the team totals, wickets taken, overs bowled and result.
b) By 10pm on the Wednesday following the match: the full scorecard including names of match officials.
c) Failure to meet these requirements will result in a fine of £30 for each occasion, payable by the Home Club to the League.
Any problems - contact Results Secretary, Richard Mason, Tel: 07491 834644.
E: results@hertswomenscl.co.uk
Umpires Marking
Premiership Marks for umpires are to be entered by both captains via the form on the ‘Who’s The Umpire’ system (www.whostheumpire.com) by 9pm on the Wednesday following every match. Any problems must be reported immediately to: Jon Holland. E: joncarole81@hotmail.co.uk T: 07948 718178.
Penalty: Each failure to report by the Wednesday - 5 points deducted.
Substitutes and Runners
General
The Laws provide for the umpires to determine whether a substitute or runner is to be allowed. In matches where there are no non-playing umpires the captains must take this responsibility and act fairly and impartially in accordance with the Laws.
Substitutes
The captain may request a substitute for any member of the team who becomes ill or injured at any time after the team sheets have been given to the umpires (or the opposing captain if there are not non-playing umpires). Team sheets must be provided before the Toss takes place.
A substitute is not allowed if a player leaves the field for any other reason. If a player comes into a match with an injury a substitute is not permitted unless the injury is made worse during the match.
A substitute may also be allowed for other “wholly acceptable reasons”. As a guide this would mean someone in the team who was an on-call doctor or someone who had a family member involved in an accident or emergency. In general this does not cover someone simply arriving late at the match without an acceptable reason. A substitute may field in any position but may act as wicket-keeper only with the consent of the umpires. A substitute may not bat, bowl or act as captain.
Runners
A batter will be allowed a runner if he/she becomes ill or injured at any time after the team sheets have been given to the umpires (as above) and the illness or injury affects his/her ability to run.
For the avoidance of doubt where there are non-playing umpires the consent of the captain of the fielding side for a Runner is not required.
A Runner must:
1. Be a member of the team
2. Have already batted, if possible. If an Opening Batter requires a Runner the person who acts as the Runner must not be listed to bat in the first 6. When a wicket falls the dismissed Batter shall become the Runner.
3. Wear the same external protective equipment as the Batter for whom he/she is running (pads, gloves and helmet, as applicable) and carry a bat. Further, if the Runner is Under-18 he/she must wear a helmet with a faceguard. Runners may only be changed with the approval of the umpires.
Safety Guidelines
Helmets
Any player under the age of 18 playing in the Hertfordshire Women's Cricket League must wear a helmet with faceguard when batting and when standing up to the stumps when keeping wicket. The Umpires must be provided with a team sheet before the start of each match identifying any player who is in under 20 with their age, on the day of the match. Captains, Coaches, Managers, and umpires must always ensure that a young player wears a helmet.
Youth players as umpire
Where youth players are required to stand as an umpire, only as a last resort should players aged under 18 umpire any part of a match, unless qualified as an umpire or by agreement between both captains. Where possible, any under 18 Umpire should stand only at the striker’s end, (i.e., square leg), with an adult at the bowler’s end.
Captains’ responsibilities.
The Captain is responsible for the safety of all youth players in his/her team. Captains must ensure young players wear a helmet in adult cricket regardless of the speed of the bowling or the circumstances of the match. Captains must also ensure when placing their field that young players do not infringe the fielding regulations for young players issued by the ECB.
Responsibility and action of umpires
Umpires should establish before the start of any match the age of all young players taking part in the match. Such players MUST be identified on the team sheet, exchanged at the beginning of a game. This may require a meeting with the manager, coach, or captain. When the captain has indicated that there are young players taking part, the umpires should remind the captain that she is responsible for the safety of the young players throughout the match. The umpires should not allow play to proceed if the young player is not wearing a helmet in line with League and ECB regulations.
What are the legal implications?
If a young player receives a head injury in a situation where the guidance had not been followed, there is a material risk that the person responsible for the player at the time the injury was sustained would be potentially liable for damages for negligence. To establish negligence, it would be necessary to show:
• that a person owes the cricketer a duty of care • that the person acted in breach of that duty of care; and • that the cricketer suffered loss or damage because of that breach.
Normally, the Captain will be responsible for identifying who was responsible for the safety of the player at the time the injury was sustained.
Guidance and advice
The League and the ECB offer guidance on a number of playing regulations and the Laws. Full details are available on the League website. Here are summaries of the main items and links to relevant documents you can find there.
Helmets
All players under 18 must wear a helmet with a faceguard when batting or when standing up to the stumps when keeping wicket, with their ages identified on the team sheet. Captains and umpires must ensure that a young player wears a helmet. The ECB strongly recommends that all adult recreational cricketers should wear helmets. Additional information on the web site includes general advice on safety, BSI Standard, women’s helmets, recommendations on what clubs need to do, and insurance.
Attempting to Run out the Non-Striker
Following a change to the Laws, this dismissal has moved from Law 41 Unfair Play to Law 38 Run Out. In summary:
At any time from the moment the ball comes into play until the instant when the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball, the non-striker is liable to be Run out if he/she is out of his/her ground. The instant when the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball is defined as the moment the bowler’s arm reaches the highest point of his/her normal bowling action in the delivery swing.
Guidance
The key aspect of the law are “the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball” and “highest point of his/her normal bowling action”. This is the point in the action when the bowler would normally release the ball. The bowler attempting to run out the non-striker must stop their run up before their arm reaches the point when the ball would normally be released. If so, and they break the wicket with the non-striker out of their crease and there is an appeal, then the non-striker is out.
Ground Weather and Light
One of the greatest challenges for cricket umpires at all levels of the game is the management of ground, weather and light as set out in Laws 2.7, 2.8 and 6.2. These laws require umpires to suspend play, or not to allow play to start or recommence, when, in their opinion, the conditions of ground, weather or light, or any other circumstances are either dangerous or unreasonable.
Law 2.7.2 states that “Conditions shall be regarded as dangerous if there is actual and foreseeable risk to the safety of any player or umpire”.
This is the standard that must be applied to all decisions relating to the ground, weather and light.
Please read the guidance note covering the factors that umpires take into account in assessing if conditions of ground,weather and light are dangerous or unreasonable. Also, the procedures that it is suggested umpires follow to make that assessment. See: www.herts-aco.org/_files/ugd/b423d7_94e07cd539b949e9ae148cd7f87daf02.pdf
Lightning: What Should You Do?
Go Indoors Immediately if: There is sudden thunder without lightning, You see lightning in the clouds; You see lightning strike the ground or building etc. nearby; apply the ’40/30 Rule’ – get indoors when thunder is audible within 40 seconds after you see the associated flash (the ‘flash to bang time’) and don’t venture out until thunder has not been heard for 30 minutes.
ECB Fast Bowling Regulations
The fast bowling regulations are designed to raise awareness of the need to nurture and protect young fast bowlers through their formative years. Limits are as follows:
Aged 11 and below: 4 overs per spell, 8 overs per day;
Aged 12 & 13: 5 overs per spell, 10 overs per day;
Aged 14 & 15: 5 overs per spell, 12 overs per day;
Aged 16 & 17: 6 overs per spell, 15 overs per day;
Aged 18 & 19: 7 overs per spell, 18 overs per day.
Ages refers to ‘age in years’ (i.e. age on the day of the game). A fast bowler is defined as a bowler who attempts to deliver the ball at high intensity, which therefore includes seam bowlers, swing bowlers and medium pace bowlers. Having completed a spell the bowler cannot bowl again, from either end, until the equivalent number of overs to the length of his/her spell have been bowled from the same end
More at: ECB-Recreational-Cricket-Safety-Regulations.pdf
Dealing with Suspect Bowling Actions
The Law states that, once the arm has reached the level of the shoulder in the delivery action, the arm must not be straightened at the elbow joint until the ball has left the hand.
Umpires should establish with the captain of the fielding side whether the action has been questioned previously and been reported to the League. If the bowling action has been not checked and cleared, the umpires shall instruct the captain to suspend the bowler and not allow h1er to bowl again in the match.
If not previously referred to the League then the umpires shall inform the captain that the bowler will now be reported but the bowler shall not be prevented from bowling unless the umpires together are certain that the action is illegal. The captain shall then be instructed to suspend the bowler and not allow her to bowl again in the match.
Concussion guidelines
Concussion is a serious and on occasion potentially life-threatening condition. It can be caused by a relatively innocuous blow to the head. Umpires are among those consistently present at matches who have a Duty of Care to the players.
Umpires are (in general) not qualified to determine whether anyone is suffering from a concussion, but they do have an ongoing general duty of care to players during a match. The discharge of this duty will be different in every circumstance but generally, the umpire should be deemed to be acting reasonably if they follow the steps outlined below.
Although the most likely cause of concussion is by a direct blow to the head caused by being hit by the ball, players may also suffer concussion from a blow to the head through collisions with each other, running into walls/fences around the boundary, or hitting their head on the ground. Therefore, where a blow to the head occurs, however mild, the umpires shall proceed with the following steps:
1. Either umpire shall immediately call and signal dead ball irrespective of the state of play. Runs completed, plus the run in progress, if the batsman have crossed, shall be allowed.
2. In the event of what is felt to be a serious / significant injury to a player, such as the player is rendered unconscious or is bleeding significantly or upon reasonable inspection by the umpire, exhibits any symptoms which give the umpire cause for significant concern, umpires should ask the host ground authority to call for emergency medical support (most likely an ambulance) and should discourage the player from moving or being moved until medical assistance arrives.
3. If the umpire(s) determine that they do not have immediate and significant concern that requires ground authority to call for emergency medical support, the umpires shall ask the Responsible Adult from the injured player’s team to immediately assess whether the player is fit to continue.
4. The umpires are not required to take part in this assessment.. If the Responsible Adult advises the player can continue, unless the umpire has concerns about the player continuing, the umpires shall recommence play. If the umpire(s) have any concerns about the player prior to play continuing or as play continues (either where the player has stayed on the field or returned), the umpire(s) should repeat Steps 1 to 3.
5. If the Responsible Adult advises the player can continue but subsequently either umpire has further concern about them, they shall repeat Steps 1 and 3. If the Responsible Adult continues to advise that the player is fit to continue and the umpire(s) continue to have any concerns about the player, the umpires shall leave the field of play and refuse to umpire the match. They shall report the issue to the authority responsible for the game.
Guidelines can be viewed at: www.sportandrecreation.org.uk/policy/research-publications/concussionguidelines.
Also ECB guidance at: www.ecb.co.uk/about/policies/concussion
Disciplinary Procedures
The following sets out a summary of the Disciplinary Procedures adopted by the HPCL. The League has adopted the ECB’s General Conduct Regulations, with some minor modifications.
Email: discipline@hertswomenscl.co.uk
Summary of discipline penalties
Level 1 offences:
An automatic 7-day or 14-day ban depending upon incident.
A 2-point deduction for that player’s team. (only in matches with independent panel umpires).
A second Level 1 issued to any player from that same team in the same season - an automatic 5-point deduction for his/her team (only matches with independent panel umpires).
Any subsequent Level 1 offences - a 10-point deduction.
Level 2 offences:
A prospective ban of not less than 14-days
An automatic 5-point deduction for the player’s team.
A second Level 2 issued to any player from same team in same season - an automatic 10-point deduction for his/her team (only matches with independent panel umpires)
Any subsequent Level 2 offences - a 20-point deduction.
Level 3/Level 4 offences:
A 25-point deduction (minimum) for his/her team.
Facilities Marking Guidelines
1. Pitch
Basic: Properly prepared (mown and rolled) to a width of 10 feet. Properly and clearly marked to conform to MCC Regulations and Recommendations (i.e. 5 foot and 1 foot lines). Be of reasonably consistent bounce throughout match and not affording excessive spin or movement off the seam. Adequate set of stumps and bails to be provided together with bowling markers (not left to umpires to provide). Sawdust and cloths available during wet conditions. Roller available for use between innings. Pitch ends to be cleaned up between innings and necessary re-marking to be done.
2. Outfield
Basic: Adequately mown to provide reasonably true fielding surface. Properly maintained and repaired so that it is free from stones, holes and other hazards. Reasonably flat (slight slopes and undulations not to be penalised)
3. Sightscreens
Basic: One provided at each end of ground. Adequate size (width and height), in good repair and of acceptable white/light coloured facade. Easily moved and in position before commencement of play. (No sightscreen = no points. 1 sightscreen = 4 points maximum). Positioned wholly outside playing area with boundary line adjusted where necessary.
4. Boundaries
Basic: Marked as per league requirements.
5. Scorebox
Basic: Main total to be clear and moveable (flip-over or lights) to ensure promptness. Overs, wickets and 1st innings score also to be clearly displayed and easily changed. To be a score box and not just a board, internal seating and table for scorers, providing adequate protection from the elements Box should be clean and tidy. (Old fashioned “telegraph” type scoreboard limited to a maximum of 5 points). A clock, visible from the wicket, must be provided. If no clock is provided this must be reported. If no scorebox is available, a scoreboard must be on view to players.
6. Pavilion
Basic: Changing rooms to be lockable, clean and tidy with rubbish from previous matches removed from the premises. Toilets and wash basins (with separate facilities for ladies) to be in a sanitary condition with adequate supply of requisites. Showers to have good supplies of hot water with temperature safely controlled. Cubicles to be clean and clear of debris / dirt from previous use. Tea to be served on clean crockery and hygienically protected until tea is taken by all players, umpires and scorers.
Laws of Cricket - Dissent
Law 42 - Guidance on the definitions of dissent for umpires, captains and players
Level Description / Definition
1
Dissent:
An action or actions by a player or players which clearly demonstrates to observers (other players, spectators, etc) that the umpire has, in the player’s view, made a mistake
Examples (must be taken in context)
Players Applicable to
Failure to leave the crease or the field of play promptly Batter
Raising or waving of the bat to suggest contact with the ball Batter
Indicating a contact point on the body or equipment Batter
Breaking the wicket with the bat or person Batter
Throwing the ball to the ground Fielding Side
Audible statement(s) of dissent Any Player
Any gesture or animated behaviour which suggests umpire error Any Player
Any other conduct the umpire considers is equivalent to a Level 1 offence Any Player
Failure to leave the crease or the field of play within an extended timeframe which may require addition input from the umpire(s) Batter
Aggressive breaking of the wicket with the bat or person Batter
Throwing of the bat, gloves or helmet Batter
2 Serious Dissent:
A prolonged, repeated or aggressive action or actions by a player or players which clearly demonstrates to observers that the umpire has, in the player’s view, made a mistake.
Obscene language and/or highly audible statement(s) within an act of dissent Any Player
Advancing towards an umpire in an aggressive or animated manner in an act of showing dissent Any Player
Any aggressive, animated or sustained behaviour in an act of showing dissent Any Player
Any repetition or combination of Level 1 acts of dissent Any Player
A collective display of dissent by two or more fielders, which may include the bowler, in response to an umpire’s decision Any Player
Any other conduct the umpire considers is equivalent to a Level 2 offence or a repeated Level 1 offence Any Player
Umpires Marking Guidance
The captains’ reports on umpires are an important part of their development. Many of them aspire to do the best games possible and whilst the marks awarded are not the only criteria used, they play an important role in helping us decide which umpires move up and down the pyramid.
As last year, the same process will be used for all matches in the Premier division. At the end of the game an icon will appear on Who’s The Umpire, within the fixtures section, against the name of the umpire standing in each game and when it is opened there will be five main headings. These will be:
Decision Making – Umpire appeared always calm, well positioned, confident and offered clarity if explaining decision making.
Match Management – Ensured a safe and positive playing environment and applied the Laws and playing conditions accurately.
Player Management – Worked well with players and captains pre, during and postmatch and dealt with player behaviour challenges early and fairly.
Presence and Image – Used a variety of communication styles to interact positively with players and captains for the benefit of the game.
Teamwork – Showed effective co-operation with officiating colleagues for an effective game.
A maximum of five marks can be awarded for each category: 5 = outstanding, 4 = Above standard expected, 3 = Standard expected, 2= Below standard expected and 1= Poor
It is MANDATORY to provide comments when giving a score of 2 or below. Please remember that umpires can be involved in the game for several hours and need good powers of concentration. Sometimes mistakes will be made but just because one mistake may have been made there should be an awareness of the OVERALL performance when marking.
In previous years some clubs have routinely given the same mark (be it a mark of, for example, 15 or 25) which does not assist either the umpire concerned or those of us trying to make assessments on them. Please try and be as objective as possible and not view this as a box ticking exercise.
If there are any queries about this process, please contact me at joncarole81@ hotmail.co.uk or 07948 718178
As a reminder all umpire reports should be completed and sent by 9pm on the Wednesday following the game. Failure to do so will result in the loss of 5 points.
Jon Holland HACO Development Officer
Umpires contact information 2026
Panel coordinator:
Anthony Levy
Phil Anderson
Tel: 020 8441 9297, Mobile: 07904 309926
Email: umpires@hertspremiercl.co.uk
07469 652363
Richard Apperley 07971 880547
Paul Attfield 07734 036143
Paul Barnes 07754 093888
Geoff Bassill 07703 307452
Andrew Bennett 07947 639355
Navneet Bhatnagar 07747 092519
Mark Bishop 07751 357382
Martin Botha 07969 938662
Ian Breeze 07754 679140
Alan Brewster 07549 286172
Tim Caldicott 07721 017651
Murray Carlson 07907 121404
Paul Carroll 07889 344869
Alan Casbard 07815 609129
Ben Childs 07534 080357
Luke Clow 07843 386177
Geoff Cordingley 01992 423879
Andy Cox 07720 288408
Adrian Dell 07908 450080
Sujoy Dey 07907 030582
Jerry Dovey 07949 196413
Rose Dovey 07459 460726
Martyn Dunn 07767 878280
Stuart Ellis 07421 042654
Jeremy Epton 07764 176702
John Eyre 07740 054726
Piers Fuller 07879 236193
Rob Furber 07785 227511
Rupert Garrett 07951 492396
Ajaz Ghafoor 07710 004401
Jeremy Goodacre 07551 660052
Pete Gurney 07919 241096
Phil Gurney 07969 558260
Nick Hall 07929 562554
Bryan Harber 07790 751187
Tim Harvey 07775 686002
Luke Heming 07779 262588
Jon Hillman 07976 375619
Peter Hinstridge 07710 403524
Jon Holland 07948 718178
David Inwood 07902 076757
Greg Keene 07773 772005
James Knight 07956 533083
Jerry Lake 07309 041240
Ian Lawless 07976 359625
David Lee 07901 972859
Ian Letting 07591 775545
Anthony Levy 07904 309926
Phil Lewins 07796 781617
Guy Lewis 07500 843575
Jonathan Mackman 07984 791309
Andrew McCree 07836 365975
Marcel Mester 07828 612972
Pravin Mistry 07305 413778
Andrew Mower 07855 552657
Martin Myers 07798 520865
Harish Padalia 07770 567857
Chaitana Paruchuri 07503 999394
Chris Pask 07803 504765
David Perkins 07803 204200
David Pimblett 07775 505486
Gary Pond 07850 224582
Chris Price 07961 808766
Rob Riddleston 07956 922590
Mark Rivlin 07973 824303
Gordon Ronald 07802 933998
Michael Rueth 07425 147162
David Segal 07956 282630
David Shelley 07704 103868
Gareth Sheppard 07811 202856
Graham Sherman 07776 745914
Tim Sims 07769 111508
Satish Solanki 07786 732056
Arvind Srinivasan 07713 563245
Michael Stiffin 07954 134609
Mick Stock 07926 708460
Tony Stopford 07703 462850
John Sweedy 07854 374597
David Taylor 07792 271572
Jim Wallace 07875 131905
Stephen Waller 07711 071727
Ray Ward 07708 632578
Ian Watkins 07950 831686
John Watson-Humphreys 07860 648390
George White 07968 349933
Ben Whyall 07734 253709
Hemal Wijesuriya 07801 763542
David Wormald 07940 596660
Kevin Youngs 07777 148246
Leading players and performances 2025
Premiership
Player records
Most Runs 320 L Ruxton - Harpenden
Highest scores
T20 73* I Newman - St Albans v St Margretsbury
T35 97 D A Thanthrige - Bedford v St Margretsbury
Most wickets 10 M Silenti & L Hartley
Best bowling
T20 4/11 D A Thanthrige - Bedford v Harpenden
T35 4/13 L Whittle - Harpenden v St Margretsbury
Most Catches 5 M Dyer & LRuxton - Harpenden
Championship
Most Runs 314 H Reeder - Flitwick
Highest scores
T20 119* Z Khan - Luton Women and Girls v Abbots Langley
T30 114 O Fox - Ickwell v Tring
Most wickets 17 Z Khan - Luton Women and Girls
Best bowling
T20 4/9 I Moss - Bishop Stortford II v Hitchin II
T35 6/9 Z Khan - Luton Women and Girls v Flitwick
Most catches 5 C Hendrie (Abbots Langley) 5 Z Khan (Luton Women and Girls)
Highest team scores
Premiership
T35 223/5 Harpenden v Ampthill
T20 176/2 St Albans v St Margaretsbury
Championship
T30 193/3 Ickwell v Tring
T20 213/1 Luton Women & Girls v Abbots Langley
League tables - 2025
PREMIERSHIP
CHAMPIONSHIP
SOFTBALL LEAGUE
Team Photos
Top - Harpenden
Middle - Luton Women & Girls
Bottom - Kings Langley
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