Strict protocols drafted for the return of local cricket

The return to cricket locally will be accompanied by strict policies to prevent the spread of COVID-19. According to Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) president, Wilford "Billy" Heaven, the new protocols will also see some of the staples of the game being removed.

Heaven says the JCA has drafted a resumption policy before cricket can return to its competitive format on the island.

The policy which heaven says took into account 13 fundamental issues, also has guidelines in place which mandate players to wear masks when disembarking their team bus.

It also eliminates another longtime cricketing tradition, spinning of the toss, as the visiting team will decide if it wants to bat or bowl first..

Temporary changing rooms in the form of tents will have to be set up at most venues to ensure space for social distancing according to Heaven and similar arrangements will also go for lunch and tea time intervals.

Heaven says umpires will be given copies of the document and told to strictly enforce the new policies.

The JCA boss says he would like to see club and parish cricket return to action before the schools begin playing again.