C Randall: Reaction to Lord MacLaurin's report (8 Jul 1998)

8 July 1998

Reaction to Lord MacLaurin's report

By Charles Randall

DESPITE the proposed autumn meeting, there is no indication the smaller clubs will be rushed into sweeping changes.

Several first-class counties who voted out last year's proposal to split the championship into two divisions, would like to see the wider issues tackled. They want solid evidence that a split would be financially justifiable and would benefit the game as a whole.

David Collier, Leicestershire's chief executive, said yesterday: "We welcome a two-day session to discuss a business plan for cricket.

"Leicestershire were in favour of two divisions provided there was a full business plan and a review and redistribution of finances to ensure equity in that area. Like other counties, there was no way we could go in blindfold in the first year."

Peter Edwards, of Essex, regarded by some as a reactionary, believes the English game has turned the corner. He said: "I'm bullish about the whole thing. What is happening at the grassroots level is very exciting. Most of the under-19 team who did so well in the World Cup are finding places in county sides, which is tremendous.

"Schools cricket is beginning to take off again with the money we get from the ECB's foundation and the appointment across 38 counties of development officers. That is having an effect, there is no doubt about that. We're moving in the right direction."

Mike Fatkin, of Glamorgan, said: "The financial issue is one consideration, but a decision like this should be taken for cricket reasons. The question has to be: Will it improve the development of young players?"

"What would be the control over quality of pitches? How can you look at something as radical as two divisions with the state of the weather in this country?"

Source :: Electronic Telegraph (https://www.telegraph.co.uk)