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.
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