Use of the Artificial Net at the Strand

Following the ECB guidance (Return to Activity in a Cricket Club Setting – 15 May 2020), which said that from 13 May 2020 cricket clubs in England are able to reopen their facilities providing they comply with the Government guidance and maintain social distancing, we have decided to make one of the outdoor artificial nets at the Strand available for members to use.

Bookings

The use of the nets is for members only and they must be booked in advance

We have 3 sessions available each day:

9am to 12 noon
1pm to 4pm
5pm to 8pm

The nets will be available from Monday 25 May

Bookings will start on the hour and run for 50 minutes, to allow for a 10 minute change over period before the next session starts.

Bookings can be made by contacting Neil Stentiford on 07957 828 891

The net booking will be available for all members – soft and hardball

We will monitor demand to consider whether any changes need to be made to the arrangements. We will let you know of any changes in advance of making them.

Use of the net

Access to the net is blocked off and it will only be opened up during the advertised times

Only one net can be used

A maximum of two people from different households can use the net at the same time. There is no restriction for people from the same household

Rules for using the nets are on displayed. This includes ensuring that the users follow social distancing

We will not open the pavilion and no changing facilities are available

A first aid kit will be available

Volunteers will be on site to supervise the use of the nets during the designated times. If you would like to volunteer to help, please contact Neil Stentiford

These rules must be followed, otherwise there is a risk that the use of the net will be withdrawn

Arrival at the ground

If you are coming to the ground by car, please park in the car park and wait in your car until the previous net session has finished and the people using the net have moved away from the net area.

If you are coming to the ground by bike or are walking, please wait by the pavilion until the net session has finished and the people using the net have moved away from the net area.

In both cases, the person supervising the net session will let you know when you can go over to the net area.

Use of equipment
Players must use their own equipment. The Club will not be providing it

We can source net balls and slingers, so please let us know if you are interested in purchasing these items

No saliva or sweat should come into contact with the ball at any time

Safeguarding message for junior members
Helmets with a faceguard must be worn when batting against a hard cricket ball in the nets

An abdominal protector ( box ) must also be worn when batting, together with pads and gloves

With only 2 players in the nets please be sensible about how much fast bowling you do

The ECB fast bowling directives are as follows

up to u13s max 5 over spells and a total of 10 overs in a day maximum;
u14s and u15s its 6 over spells and a total of 12 overs a day maximum.

Make sure you take breaks and stay hydrated