With positive news about the effectiveness of the vaccine programme, and a provisional timetable for the easing of the lockdown, the prospect of a full summer of cricket is a real one.

We have started preparations at Old Deer Park and the Newman Cricket Ground. We are, however, committed to a responsible approach in line with ECB and government guidance. That means that our facilities, including the nets, remain closed for now - we expect until the 29th March.

Here is the latest statement to clubs from the ECB, issued on 19th March:
The ECB have been working closely with both the UK government and the Welsh government to provide clarity in what the easing of lockdown restrictions mean for recreational cricket across England and Wales. We know that our communities, players and volunteers will have missed the social, physical and health benefits of participating in our great game and we believe we have an important role to play in supporting the nations recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Importantly, we also know that we have a collective responsibility to ensure the safety of our communities by ensuring compliance with both the latest government guidance. The aim of the accompanying documents (which can be found here) is to share with you the information we currently know about what the return to cricket at the end of March will look like, in order to help your planning. This is based on our ongoing conversations with the government and key partners to date and information published on gov.uk.

Covid updates can be accessed here on the ECB’s website.

What are the current plans? (subject to change)

Easter Camps - starting Monday 29th March for 3 weeks - click here for more information. Note that you must book and pay well in advance to allow us to ensure that we can meet our obligations with respect to covid-19.
Adult training - possibly from Wednesday 31st March
First senior fixtures - friendlies from 17th April
Junior training - from Sunday 18th April

How can I prepare for the season?
Make the most of Quarantine Cricket - RCC's online archive of technical and strength & conditioning sessions, lead by Director of Cricket Adam London with guest appearances from Dave Burton and Will Phillips (pictured)

In the meantime stay safe and well, observe the government guidelines and we look forward to seeing you as soon as possible for wonderful summer of cricket.