Shropshire Disabled Cricket League 2024
This season’s 2024 Shropshire Disabled Cricket League was launched in January.
The competition has been held every year since 1990 – with the only break due to Covid.
Competing this year will be St Georges DCC (one of our Disability Champion Clubs), 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 its preseason preparations.
Matches are played at indoor venues across the county – starting on Sunday January 14.
The format matches as closely as possible a combination of well-established national indoor league rules and ‘Pairs cricket’.
Bowlers are 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 national rules, with each side starting with 200 runs, and losing five runs for each dismissal. The team with the higher ‘net’ score wins the match.
SDCL 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, 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.
“Whenever possible, any person with a disability who turns up to watch and then wishes to take part can graduate to the ECB national competitions.
“Since 2011, each year the SDCL recognizes a ‘Player of the Season’ and last year’s award went to Iwan Hughes of CBMACs (pictured left) both for his playing ability and his excellent attitude to the game.
“This award is dedicated to the memory of Richard Furber, a founder playing member of the League.
“Playing in the SDCL is competitive but always FUN!”
Further details on the League’s activities can be obtained from Graham via emai graham.furber@yahoo.com