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WDCU Club Communication 22-04 – 2022 – High Priority

Please see club communication sent on 22-04

 

A lengthy update today as there is lots to share.
  • IMPORTANT: Could all clubs please note that for season 2022, with the agreement and support of CSMOA, and Cricket Scotland, the WDCU  has decided to adopt now the MCC’s changes to Law 41.3 which will officially become part of the Laws of Cricket in October, regarding the prohibition of saliva use on the match ball. CSMOA officials will be adopting this across all domestic competitions they officiate in Scotland.
    The change to this new Law, preserves the playing conditions widely adopted during the Covid period that prohibited the use of saliva to change the ball’s condition. Instead of saliva, players can continue to use sweat to polish the ball.

    In games with no appointed umpires, the WDCU expects that clubs and team captains will ensure enforcement of this during matches and inform WDCU of any issues.
  • You are aware that the new CS Live and WDCU Live systems are now operational and training has  been delivered to Regional Association officers and club scorers and officials.  WDCU anticipate that there will be some difficulties establishing these systems and have agreed that sanctions for non compliance will be relaxed in the early part of the season. I have been notified that scoring may be a particular issue as the system does not use a lap top and there is need of WiFi  at a ground for live scoring. Also when a game is scored in a book it requires both sides to be on the system prior to the game to allow score entry following the match. If you have problems please share them with me as I am sure others will have similar issues and hopefully we can smooth them over during the early part of the season.
  • Please note the SLAR and Playing Conditions are finalised and in the document centre of the website. You will note that in the SLAR clubs are still not  required to provide teas but if any club wishes to WDCU is happy for that to happen. Please let me (and your opponents) know if this is the case.
  • Could clubs please note that for the first time in 10 years the umpires match fees have changed and are contained in the table below. These changes standardise the fees across all regions. WDCU acknowledges that the timing of this is far from ideal and that has been fedback to CSMOA from Cricket Scotland and all the regions.
Overs (total per day/game)
Current Umpire Match Fee Payment
Current Per-Over rate
2022 Proposed Umpire Match Fee Payment
2022 Proposed Per-Over Rate
2022 Proposed Single Umpire Fee (150%)
100
£35.00
£0.35
£40.00
£0.40
£60.00
90
£30.00
£0.33
£36.00
£0.40
£54.00
40
£15.00
£0.38
£16.00
£0.40
£24.00
  • Could I also remind all clubs to complete an edit of your Player Reg pages and make all required changes to personal details , photographs etc. If you forward me a list of players who no longer play for you I can deactivate them for you. A small number of clubs (6) have done so already allowing 230 deactivations to take place. Thank you for that.
  • WDCU would like to remind clubs to review their Child Protection Policy and procedures and ensure they are up to date and active. Please note these are a  requirement form Cricket Scotland and should be kept current and available to all your members. Cricket Scotland has an officer responsible for this area should you require any further information or assistance.
  • Please note the WDCU in partnership with CSMOA have recently published three messages relating to Player Behaviour. if you haven’t done so could you please share these with your players /members. As a reminder the golden thread through each of the messages was:
         Respect your opponents and match officials and play in the Spirit of Cricket.’
         Players who do not do so will face sanctions. Clubs who fail to control their players will also face team and whole club sanctions as the WDCU and                       CSMOA strive to tackle this issue.
        Finally can I on behalf of all at the WDCU  wish you all a splendid season of cricket played in the right spirit.
       Iain
WDCU / CSMOA Player Behaviour 3 – The Laws and Law 41 /42

Please see below the 3rd and final mail sent to all club contacts regarding Player Behaviour in 2022. The message is very clear.  ‘Respect your opponents and match officials and play in the Spirit of Cricket.’ Players who do not do so will face sanctions. Clubs who fail to control their players will also face team and whole club sanctions as the WDCU/CSMOA strive to tackle this issue.

Good afternoon,
The final of the three joint communications from WDCU and CSMOA regarding Player Behaviour  concentrates on the MCC Laws of the game and in particular Law 41 and 42.
Every player should make the effort to have a working knowledge of the Laws and Captains should make the extra effort to have a sound knowledge of the Laws. These are freely available on the internet and in book form.
Attached with this mail is a series of slides produced by CSMOA  that you should share with your players and make available on your social media platforms.
The key points are:
  • The world of umpiring changed in 2019 with significant change to the Laws of Cricket.
  • New laws  –  41 Unfair Play and – 42 Player’s Conduct were introduced
  • On field sanctions were introduced leading to penalty runs being deducted and/or player suspensions during the match being handed down for more serious or repeat offences .These are designed to improve players behaviour and WDCU and CSMOA support this.
Details of the clauses, levels and offences are contained in the slides.
These changes reinforce that the umpire is firmly in charge of the game and CSMOA has trained and encouraged umpires to consistently apply all the laws. Whilst umpires have had training emphasising the need for good match management, the onus remains on players not to put the umpires in a position where  they have no option but to apply Laws 41 and 42.
Laws 41 and 42 do not apply in games without appointed umpire(s). However,  WDCU expect to see just as high a standard of conduct in these games and that captains and clubs have a responsibility for ensuring this.
What does that mean for  Players?
  • Words or actions that were once deemed part of the game can now be a discipline offence. – ‘Sledging in all forms is unacceptable and should be avoided’
  • Just in the way a No-Ball is accepted, the offences contained in Law 41 and 42  need to be accepted.
  • Be prepared for the worst scenario, accept the best.
So to conclude our three joint communications on player behavior, the message from the WDCU and CSMOA is repeated: ‘Respect your opponents and match officials and play in the Spirit of Cricket.’
Players who do not do so will face sanctions. Clubs who fail to control their players will also face team and whole club sanctions as the WDCU/CSMOA strive to tackle this issue.
WDCU Communication Discipline law 41 42 (2)
Regards Iain
WDCU Administrator.
Cricket Scotland – Covid 19 guidance 2022

Please see below a note that was issued to all clubs by CS on Friday regarding Covid 19 guidance for season 2022.

Afternoon Clubs,

Updated guidance has been issued in regard to Covid-19 and is available on the CS.com HERE.

Essentially, there are no restrictions for club cricket this season, however cricket Scotland recommends that clubs maintain good practise in relation to:

  • Staying safe
  • Respecting others
  • Following Scottish Government advice

Additionally, the guidance highlights a change in rules regarding saliva on the ball and guidance on cricket teas.

Wishing you the best for the coming season.

 

 

WDCU / CSMOA Pre season Communication plan – Player Behaviour – 2.

The second of our series of three joint messages has just been sent to all club contacts. It focuses on The CS Code of Conduct and the WDCU Discipline and Appeals Policy: Here it is in full:

Dear Club contact,
The second communication from the WDCU / CSMOA partnership in the pre season plan targeting Player Behaviour is regarding the Cricket Scotland (CS) Code of Conduct and the WDCU Disciplinary and Appeals Policy.
The CS Code of Conduct was updated for season 2021 and remains unchanged for 2022.
The CS Code of Conduct outlines behaviours and actions that breach the Spirit of Cricket and therefore, if committed by a Player or Team Official, amount to an offence by such Player or Team Official under the CS Code of Conduct.  Offences of this nature in the west are considered under the WDCU Disciplinary and Appeals Policy.
All Players and Team Officials are bound by and required to comply with all the provisions of the CS Code of Conduct. By their participation (in the case of a player) or assistance in a player’s participation (in the case of a team official) in any cricket match taking place directly under the auspices of Cricket Scotland or the WDCU such Players and Team Officials shall be deemed to have agreed that it is their personal responsibility to;                    
  • familiarise themselves with the CS Code of Conduct (including what conduct constitutes an offence).
  • familiarise themselves with the WDCU Discipline and Appeals Policy  and to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of any Discipline Panel Committee or Appeal Panel Committee established in terms of said Code Of Disciplinary Procedure to hear and determine any charges brought and any subsequent appeals pursuant to this Code Of Conduct, and
  • not to bring any proceedings in any other court or forum inconsistent therewith.
In season 2021 28 players faced 42 disciplinary charges of which 38 were upheld resulting in sanctions being handed down. These sanctions varied from a reprimand to an 18 week ban and all attracted demerit points which when a threshold is met result in additional bans. Clubs and players should familiarise themselves with these sanctions.
The WDCU / CSMOA are keen that these numbers are greatly reduced this year and feel that a greater understanding of the CS Code of Conduct and the WDCU Disciplinary Policy by all players and team officials would help achieve this.
Copies of the CS Code of Conduct and The WDCU Disciplinary and Appeals Policy are attached for your use. Please ensure they are shared widely within your club to members and players alike and in all your social media channels. Where possible they should all be made visible  in your clubhouse. Please note that a lack of knowledge of these documents will not be an acceptable defence should any charge be faced.
The message from the WDCU and CSMOA is repeated: ‘Respect your opponents and match officials and play in the Spirit of Cricket.’
Players who do not do so will face sanctions. Clubs who fail to control their players will also face team and whole club sanctions as the WDCU/CSMOA strive to tackle this issue.
This is the second of three messages and the final one will cover the laws of the game and in particular Law 41 and 42.
Kind regards Iain
WDCU Administrator

Iain Kennedy

WDCU Administrator

WDCU / CSMOA – Pre-season communication – player behaviour

The WDCU working in partnership with CSMOA will deliver a series of communications to clubs regarding the issue of player behaviour.  Last season over 40 charges were raised against players and the WDCU and CSMOA would are keen that this is not replicated in 2022. Please see the first communication sent out earlier today:

Dear club contact,
The WDCU is working in partnership with CSMOA to deliver a pre-season communication plan for season 2022. The purpose of the plan is to raise the issue of player behaviour and to encourage clubs to take ownership of improving it.
The first in the series is to remind all clubs and in turn players the of the Vision, Aims and values of the WDCU and the ‘Spirit of Cricket message.’
I have attached the WDCU Vision, Aims and Values poster for you. Please share it with your players and members on your normal communication methods. The website link is below.
Club documents – Western District Cricket Union (wdcu.co.uk)
I would particularly like to highlight the following value and urge you to remind your players to be ‘respectful‘ of other players and umpires at all times. At this point I would remind you that ‘Inappropriate and personal sledging of players or umpires will not be tolerated,’ Those found guilty of this will be dealt with to the full extent of the Code of Conduct.
Respect: We are respectful of each other, and the rights of others, to participate within a supportive and inclusive environment and in the spirit of cricket.

With regard to the ‘Spirit of Cricket the Preamble of the ICC Conditions, sets out the definition as follows and again I would expect all players to be aware of and adhere to its contents.

“Preamble – The Spirit of Cricket

  • Cricket owes much of its appeal and enjoyment to the fact that it should be played not only according to the Laws (which are incorporated within these Playing Conditions), but also 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.”
The message from the WDCU and CSMOA is play the game competitively and in the right spirit.
Players who do not so so will face sanctions. Clubs who fail to control their players may also face team and whole club sanctions as we strive to tackle this issue.
There are two more messages to follow regarding the ‘Code of Conduct’ and ‘ the Laws of the game and in particular law 42.
Please ensure these messages are forwarded to all your players and members.
Iain Kennedy
WDCU Administrator
WDCU Club Communication 6 – 25-03-2022.
Please see the most recent club update sent to all contacts this afternoon.
Good afternoon,
All WDCU fixtures are now complete and have been published in the Document Centre of the website.. The Saturday League Administration Rules and all Competition Playing Conditions are in final draft and will be published in the Document Centre of the website on or before 31st March 2022.
Could all clubs who are recruiting overseas paid players, paid coaches and amateurs please ensure that these participants meet the Home Office and WDCU regulations and requirements. I have attached the Home Office documentation and the WDCU Registration Forms for your use. These should be read in conjunction with the WDCU Saturday League Rules document 2022. (Copy in document centre on website). Please ensure all overseas participants are registered with the WDCU before they participate in any WDCU competition.
WDCU is working in partnership with Cricket Scotland in the roll out of their new Digital platform – CS Live. All the WDCU fixtures have been uploaded onto the WDCU match centre which can be visited at the link below. (if the link doesn’t work please type it in the search bar). Training for Regional Association officers in the management and function of the system is underway and training opportunities for club officials will be announced shortly.
www.wdculive.com
Many thanks to those who have sent me updated club contact details for 2022 and the most up to date list I have is on the WDCU website in the Documents Centre. Please send all changes to me as promptly as you can. I also update the Saturday League and Sunday Friendly contact details on the website as I get them.
Could I please remind all clubs who have yet to pay their subscription for 2022 to do so before the closing date of 31-03-2022. 
A small number of clubs have yet to make a ball order for the season. if you haven’t and you would still like to could you please send me your order by 31st March.
The independent review being  delivered by Plan4Sport into racism, discrimination and inequality  in cricket in Scotland is gaining momentum and I would encourage all clubs to invite their members to participate in the review. Please pass on the following contact details to any of your players/members to get in touch with the review team:
cricketreview@sportscotland.org.uk  
A separate update on this issue has been sent to you all earlier today.
Finally the WDCU and CSMOA have agreed a preseason communication plan for clubs and players on player behaviour. The first of three communications will be shared with you all next week. It will only work if you share the information with your players and support the messages.
Please remember it is the responsibility of everyone concerned with the game to ensure that every match is played in a respectful manner and within the ‘Spirit of the Game.’
Iain kennedy WDCU Administrator
Cricket Scotland – Plan4sport Review

Cricket Scotland has this morning published an update relating to the review on its website and shared this on social media. They have asked organisations and associated clubs/committee members/officials etc to share this. The more profile that we collectively give to this issue the more chance we have of effecting real and meaningful change within cricket. I know that is something we are all passionate about. Thanks for your continued support.

Web update: https://www.cricketscotland.com/update-on-the-independent-review-into-cricket/

WDCU Saturday League fixtures 2022

The Saturday league fixtures have been sent to all club contacts this morning and can be found in the document centre. The following explanation note  accompanied the mail:

Please find attached the Saturday League fixtures for 2022. Please accept my apologies for the delay in sending these out as I had quite a number of ‘late’ requests for additions and changes. Below are some explanation notes regarding the fixtures.
  • There are three Premier Reserve league fixtures scheduled on a Sunday as the home team ground is hosting Scottish International training or games on the Saturday. In some cases the scheduled home team has been switched to play away.
  • Added to that and the fact that some grounds are not available for the full season some teams may have extended runs of home or away games. This is unavoidable.
  • There are 7 teams in Division 3. This division was agreed taking the top teams from Division 3 from 2021, the introduction of a new team with a perceived strength (Milngavie CC) and the request of another club to drop two divisions. There are 14 games scheduled for this league. Those highlighted in yellow are the additional games. Teams in this league are encouraged to arrange additional friendly fixtures with other free teams from Division 3 or 4
  • There are 8 teams in Division 4. This division was agreed taking the bottom teams from Division 3 2021, the introduction of a new team (Renfrew 3 playing all games away from home) and the request of another club to drop two divisions. There is one league fixture in this league scheduled for a Sunday. Teams in this league are encouraged to arrange additional friendly fixtures with other free teams from Division 3 or 4.
  • The Saturday League Administration Rules and all league Playing Conditions are being updated and will be sent out shortly.
Please contact me directly if there are any issues with this schedule.
Iain Kennedy WDCU adminstrator
WDCU Club Update 3 – 25-02- 2022.

Please see below the most recent club update sent out to club contacts earlier today.

There have been a number recent communications from clubs regarding ground availability and competition entries that have delayed the preparation of the Saturday League fixtures. These have been resolved to the best of our ability. The fixtures are being checked this weekend and will be published early next week. All other WDCU competition fixtures have been on the website for some time now.
The Saturday League Administration  Rules and all Competition Playing Conditions are also being updated and will be circulated shortly.
A guidance note for Premier League teams participating in the  coloured clothing and ball trial for season 2022 is being drawn up and will be again will be circulated shortly.
Once again thank you to those who have sent me updated club contact details for 2022 and the most up to date list I have is on the WDCU website in the documents section. Please send all changes to me as promptly as you can. I  also update the Saturday League and Sunday Friendly contact details on the website as I get them.
Please note that notice has been sent to all clubs regarding payment of this years subscription and I would ask you to attend to this as promptly as possible and no later than 31st March 2022.
You have also received the cricket ball order form for the season and clubs wanting to take advantage of this should complete and return the form to me as soon as possible.
The independent review into racism in cricket in Scotland is gaining momentum and I would encourage all clubs to invite their members to participate in the review. Please pass on the following contact details to any of your players/ members to get in touch with the review team:
cricketreview@sportscotland.org.uk
Finally the WDCU and CSMOA are working together on a pre season communication plan for clubs and players regarding player behaviour. We are keen that clubs and players take greater responsibility for their behavior and actions on and off the field. More to come over the following weeks….
Iain Kennedy WDCU administrator
West of Scotland CC – Vacancy – Groundsperson

Please see below from West of Scotland CC.

GROUNDSPERSON FOR WEST OF SCOTLAND CRICKET CLUB

West of Scotland Cricket Club, based in Partick, require a groundsperson for season 2022 to prepare wickets, cut outfield and surrounds. 35 hours per week Monday to Sunday starting at the end of March. If necessary, training on wicket preparation can be provided.  In addition, part time hours will be available from February on an agreed basis.

Please email CV and with of past groundwork experience to secretary@woscc.co.uk .