A NEW 100-ball format tournament designed to revitalise Sunday cricket has been launched across Warwickshire.
Called the Warwickshire Sunday Smash, the new competition aims to give each club eight games in one of four regional divisions in June and July, with the top teams progressing to a Finals Day.
All games will start at 2pm to give clubs an opportunity to remain open throughout the day, following the morning’s programme of youth cricket.
The new event has been launched by the Warwickshire Cricket Board (WCB) and Warwickshire County Cricket Club.
Andy Wyles, WCB’s growth and participation manager, said: “The primary aim of this new tournament is to encourage cricketers who previously played regular, league cricket back into the game through a shorter format.
“We’ve noticed in recent years some clubs have experienced a large drop in player availability for the all-day league format, due to family, work and other reasons.
“However, a game played in two hours and 15 minutes with reduced travel time presents a more compelling option, not just for the players, but for their families and other potential spectators.
“We hope it can reinvigorate Sunday cricket in the region and also provide an opportunity for clubs to bring in much-needed revenues.”
The Warwickshire Sunday Smash will be played with a white ball in coloured clothing and there are no league fees for any club which enters.
Clubs can now register their interest by emailing [email protected] ahead of the consultation meeting in early 2019.
