Derbyshire Premier League granted ECB accreditation
by Gwyn Jones, 23rd April 2004

The League is delighted to receive official confirmation from the England & Wales Cricket Board’s Premier Leagues Assessment Panel that their accreditation has been renewed for the 2004 season. As a consequence the League can expect a grant from the ECB of £9,000 plus a contribution of £1,000 towards the cost of administration. 

Accreditation is not given lightly and payment may be reduced if certain conditions are not met. Also, there is the possibility that budgets may be reviewed, depending on the situation relating to the England tour of Zimbabwe.

Amongst the conditions which have to be met are the following:

Matches shall comprise a minimum of 55 overs a side. So, a decision to reduce to 50 overs a side would jeopardise accreditation.

All Premier Leagues must have a League web site on Play-Cricket. In this respect Derbyshire are in a strong position because last season their web site was awarded top place in a survey of web sites, a great tribute to Fixture Secretary/ Registrar Chris Higginbottom.

In addition the League must ensure that they adhere to ECB directives on such matters as fast bowling for young fast bowlers, and safety guidance on the wearing of helmets by players under the age of 18.

Leagues must also ensure that playing regulations require an over rate of 17 overs per hour, with points penalties for non compliance, and that all players have signed a Registration Form which explicitly requires that they abide by the League’s Code of Conduct.

With this encouraging news on accreditation the League can embark on the new season with optimism.