There is no doubt that the Women Cricket structure around the world has been hit severely by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. A few months ago a significant event in the form of the T20I World Cup took place in Australia where the hosts managed to defeat India.
After the successful tournament, many hoped that the future of women’s cricket was pretty bright, but COVID-19 put brakes on every cricketing event.
However, gradually things are coming back on the track as recently the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced that the domestic cricket season would return to England from August 1 2020.
ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison said: “Planning remains ongoing, but our commitment to women’s domestic cricket is unwavering and we look forward to sharing further news shortly.
“Our strong preference is that the women’s new elite domestic structure starts this summer, and we will work hard to ensure that happens. For this to be achieved, brand new infrastructure still needs to be rolled out, alongside imperatives, we need in place when playing competitive cricket during a pandemic.”
Harrison added: “Our first choice remains to do everything we can to start this year and build on the fantastic momentum in the women’s game. In the event that proves impossible, we will explore other options for play to enable our women’s players to enjoy competitive domestic cricket in 2020. We will continue to work closely with both the men’s and women’s domestic game to ensure necessary safety measures are in place to protect the wellbeing of everyone involved.”
Harrison further said that setting a date to commence the county season was a “noteworthy step”, and the fixtures will be issued following the 18 first-class counties’ and the Professional Cricketers’ Association meeting.
“It follows extensive consultation between the 18 first-class counties, the Professional Cricketers’ Association and ECB and has only been achievable thanks to the significant hard work that continues to occur as we prepare for a domestic season unlike any the game has faced before.
“It must be stressed that the safety of our players, staff and officials has been the first priority through all discussions and government guidance will continue to shape our planning and preparation,” concluded Harrison.
