Launch of SDCL 2026
The 2026 edition of the Shropshire Disabled Cricket League (SDCL) gets underway this Sunday with the first game due to be played.
The league has been running every Winter since 1990 – the only break coming due to the Covid pandemic.
Competing again will be St Georges DCC, Oswestry DCC and Colwyn Bay MACs who will play each other on a home and away basis.
In addition, each of these teams will play one fixture against the Staffordshire County S9 Disability squad as part of that county’s pre-season preparations.
Matches are played at indoor venues across the county. The format matches as closely as possible a combination of well-established national indoor league rules and ‘pairs cricket’.
Games are played with both sides having 20 overs-a-side, with bowlers being allowed a maximum number of overs per innings, but as many players as possible are encouraged to bowl at least one over.
Runs are scored using the national rules, with each side starting with 200 runs, and losing 5 runs for each dismissal. The team with the higher ‘net’ score wins the match.
League Secretary Graham Furber said: “Inevitably with pan-disabilities represented, there can be major disparities between teams in terms of mobility, strength and mental awareness. Consequently, additional ‘special rules’ have been developed which are acceptable to both players and officials to promote fair play and retain the Spirit of the Game.
“The league’s philosophy has always been ‘Sport for All’, and to achieve this matches are always played as friendlies.
“Any person with a disability who turns up to watch and then wishes to take part will be accommodated, and could even graduate to play in the ECB national competitions if found to be of sufficient ability.
“The Cricket Shropshire Disability squads are always on the lookout for new players, and participation in this format can act as a useful evaluation of ability.”
Since 2011, each year the SDCL recognises a Player of the Season, and last year’s award went to Tom Shackell of Oswestry DCC both for his long association with the league and excellent attitude to the game. This award is dedicated to the memory of Richard Furber, a founder playing member of the League.
Graham added: “Recently the SDCL was saddened to hear of the death of Paul Evans (pictured left), a long-time participant for Oswestry DCC and someone who had represented the CFPD England squads on several occasions. He will be sorely missed by us all. RIP Paul.
“The aim of the Association has always been to encourage and support any disabled person who wants to play cricket. Over the years this philosophy has been modified somewhat to encourage players to endeavour to develop their game enough to be able to graduate to mainstream cricket.”
“Playing in the SDCL is competitive but always FUN!”
Further details on the League’s activities can be obtained from Secretary Graham Furber BEM, email: graham.furber@yahoo.com