Annual report highlights grass roots development sucess

The England and Wales Cricket Board's 1999-2000 Cricket Report, published today, confirms the significant progress made in grass roots development. A 10% increase in the number of Secondary Schools playing cricket, bringing the total percentage to approx. 84%, and a 26% increase in girls playing cricket in Secondary Schools are the main highlights.

The increase in the numbers of children playing the game reflects favourably on the hard work of the ECB Development Department. Further results included:

"It has been a very busy, yet rewarding year," commented ECB Chairman, Lord MacLaurin. "We are delighted at these results as it demonstrates that we are making real progress in developing the game in this country. Our Development Department and Cricket Development Officers continue to do a wonderful job and I thank everyone involved for their hard efforts."

It is estimated that the ECB and the Counties spend some £7 million a year on cricket development, which has allowed a number of significant developments to take place during the year:

The introduction of a comprehensive education programme which conforms to new government recommendations for the 2000 Curriculum.

The 50-page Cricket report documents the activities undertaken by the ECB over the past year. Highlights include:

Although there was disappointment in England's premature departure from the tournament, the competition was a huge success overall. High-quality cricket, played in front of enthusiastic crowds, created a 'Carnival of Cricket' across the country.

There was a worldwide cumulative television audience of 2.3 billion people throughout 129 countries and the tournament also recorded a surplus of over £30 million, making it the most profitable World Cup to date.

The introduction of central contracts for England players and a new management team. The agreement between the ECB and the Test Match Grounds of appropriate 'staging agreements' with regard to the staging of international matches.

The introduction of a two-divisional PPP healthcare County Championship. An increase in the number of floodlit matches in 1999 to 19 games. The re-introduction of the traditional format of the Benson and Hedges Cup for the 2000 season. The appointment of Pitch Liaison Officers for the 2000 season to help improve the standard of pitch preparation.

Admiral secured a five-year clothing deal with the England Team. NatWest agreed to sponsor the new 10-match triangular One-Day International tournament, to be known as the NatWest Series. The ECB also signed a new multi-million pound radio contract with BBC Radio. Cornhill Insurance, meanwhile, announced their withdrawal from Test Match sponsorship after 2000.

The ECB instigated the University Centres of Cricketing Excellence Scheme with six centres accredited to commence operation in Autumn 2000. Coach education, meanwhile, received a boost from the Cricket Live coaching conference at the NEC, Birmingham, and further restructuring of the Rover National Coaching Scheme. The First Class Forum also gave its approval, in principle, to the establishment of a National Academy.

The expansion of Premier Leagues continued with a national network of 20 leagues, approximately 220 clubs, in place for the 2000 season. The Forester Kent League continues to play two-day grade cricket with improvements made to the points system to increase enjoyment of the game format.

The ECB appointed a dedicated Club Development Executive to help gain a better understanding of the demands placed on volunteers and junior sections. It also produced the 'Developing Your Club' series of publications, which provide club officials with a greater knowledge of a number of issues including: fundraising activities, grant aid funding resources, pitch preparation and child protection issues.

The publication of a Child Protection Policy for cricket. The introduction of new safety guidance with respect to the wearing of cricket helmets for cricketers under the age of 18. Production of the Clean Bowl Racism report. The setting up of a new Groundsmanship Advisory Structure and a County Board professional support programme.

Disabilities cricket benefited significantly from the introduction of a County competition for physical and learning disabilities. Lancashire became the first trophy holders, winning the final at Trent Bridge. Table Cricket, a game devised for the severely handicapped, was also introduced with 35 Special Needs schools entering the inaugural competition in May 1999.