League Rules
Teams are encouraged, as far as possible, to pick players from their own ranks. For friendlies, we can be flexible with guests but even then, they should not dominate. For league matches, guests, if necessary, are allowed but can only bat at number 8 or lower and can only bowl two overs after the tenth over. In a match with 11 v 9 (or similar), the batting side should make players available to field.
Matches should be 20 overs per side but can be reduced before the start (because of impending rain or bad light) to no fewer than 10 overs by agreement between both captains. Should the captains be unable to agree then the match will be one of 15 overs per side.
Matches will be 6 balls per over; no bowler may bowl more than 4 overs. If a match is reduced to 15 overs no bowler may bowl more than 3 overs. If a match is reduced to 10 overs no bowler may bowl more than 2 overs.
Batters are to retire (not out) after scoring 30 runs; they may bat again once the remainder of the team (bar one) are out.
If more than one batter has retired during the innings they should return to the crease in the order in which they retired.
We all appreciate that it seems to be the same people who go out to umpire and that others feel they should have a go. However, it is vital that those doing the umpiring actually know the rules. Only volunteer if you are confident that you will give the correct decisions, otherwise the game becomes a farce. When it comes to dismissals, these are always given to the best of the umpire's ability - right or wrong is often (without the benefit of action replays and modern technology) a moot point. Verbal or physical abuse of an umpire will result in a 5-run penalty to the side for whom the abusive person plays. Those umpiring do their best: we all make mistakes - get over it!
Any ball passing above the batters waist on the full will be called a "No-Ball", as will any ball which rises from the pitch to above the batter's chest.
The winning team will be awarded 2 points; the losing team 0 points. In the event of a tie or a match abandoned before it starts (unless it can be re-scheduled) or during play, each team will be awarded 1 point. The Staff League has retained the sensible rule which used to apply in all limited overs cricket. A match is only tied if both teams have the same score and have lost the same number of wickets. If the scores are level then the side which has lost the lesser number of wickets is the winner.
If a team fails to appear for a match the 2 points will be awarded to the one which did. Similarly, if a team cannot raise sufficient players, they can call off a fixture provided they do so at least 24 hours before the match is due to start. The team manager calling off the match must inform the Sports Centre staff so that the match fee is not forfeit. Failure to do this will result in the opposition team being awarded the 2 points. A minimum of 8 players constitutes "quorum" for a team; it is hoped that the batting side will lend a couple of their team to field (but not bowl or keep wicket). Bear in mind that it could be your team needing players next time.
If you are an experienced quick bowler, please be aware that the person facing you may not be a club batsman. In such a case, reduce your speed, please. The idea of this league is for people to have an enjoyable evening, not end up in Casualty.
Not really a rule, more a bit of advice. Although we are all trying to win, the main aim is for everyone to have fun: so captains, please be aware, when fielding, that some of your team may be a bit overconfident of their abilities. Don't let anyone field in a position where they could get hurt. Batters cannot avoid hitting a ball at a close fielder, so keep in mind that enthusiasm is no substitute for experience and ability.
Teams tied on equal points are ranked by their head-head record. If two or more teams are tied on points and no team has an advantage in the head-head results, league position is determined by Net Run Rate.