Working party gathers to discuss county future

Representatives from six counties have met as part of a working group, chaired by the MCC chief executive Keith Bradshaw, to discuss the future of domestic English cricket and specifically plans to loosen the reliance of big, 'List A venue category' counties on international fixtures for revenue.

Over the last few years many of the larger counties have tried to attract more international fixtures by undertaking extensive development works, while also facing escalating costs with the ECB inviting opening bidding for rights to host international games. While these counties have spoken of aligning their interests and acting together, there has been a concern that any solution drawn up would further marginalise the smaller, under-resourced counties and widen the chasm that exists in the domestic game.

However, the meeting that took place May 18 and 19 is the first time the smaller (Category B and C venue) counties have been represented - with David East, from Essex, speaking on their behalf.

"I was very pleased with the openness and genuine wish to work collaboratively with the Category B and C venues in finding a pathway through some challenging issues for the game as a whole," said East. "There is a clear recognition that all first-class counties need to be part of the solution, and I look forward to expanding on some of the ideas that were considered."

The working group featured many of the same men who travelled to India in March to meet with Lalit Modi on a fact-finding mission about setting up an IPL-style tournament in England during the Indian off-season and Bradshaw, who is chairing the group, was happy with how the first discussions went.

"The Working Party wants to deliver a vibrant domestic game in England and Wales, increased revenues for the game, improved financial stability for all first-class county grounds and success for the England team in all forms of international cricket. It has been a very constructive and positive two days with a number of innovative and thought-provoking ideas presented."