Player referrals scheme scrapped

The ECB's controversial player-referrals scheme, in which teams were allowed up to refer up to three decisions to the third umpire, has been discontinued.

The third umpire will act as he does in internationals, prompted into action only by the on-field umpires. The announcement was one of 17 "cricket recommendations" made by the board following a meeting of its directors last week.

In addition, the use of floodlights for Championship games have been discontinued.

"There have been a number of occasions when floodlights have been turned on [in the Championship]," the release said, "only for play to be subsequently suspended. It has been accepted that floodlights and a red ball simply don't work - they should be discontinued in order to preserve consistency within and integrity of the competition. [sic]"

PowerPlays in Friends Provident Trophy games will also fall in line with ICC one-day regulations, with the white ball being automatically replaced at the end of the 34th over. Neither of these changes apply to the Pro40.