Sheen Park has been accepted at the recent Middlesex Championship league AGM. For the benefit of our members this email provides a summary and highlights of the main changes and differences of the new league. Note that this only affects 1st and 2nd XI.

Background:
SPCC 1st and 2nd XI teams will be playing in the Middlesex Championship Division II. This is an exciting move forward for the club and brings both the senior and junior club into the same county cricket organisation. Our colts are going through the county system and we want them to continue to play for Sheen at a senior level, this will be promoted by the county cricket organisation while we have alignment to Middlesex. This move also provides SPCC to play club cricket and continue to improve into the highest level in the future. It is also possible that this move could lead to an opportunity to apply for grants for improvements to our club facilities etc.

Summary of changes:

1. The Middlesex championship has 3 divisions for clubs with multiple teams. Our 1st and 2nd teams will play in division 2. Single team clubs play in the fourth division and below.

2. Promotion from the Championship is into the Middlesex County League, which is structured in the same way. One team is promoted/relegated each year from each league.

3. The format is 100 overs per game, declaration cricket. The side batting first being allowed to bat up to a maximum of 55 overs.

4. Points:
A Win = 10pts
Tie = 5pts
Draw with faster than average run rate = 4pts
Draw with lower than average run rate = 1pt
No result = 1pt for each team

5. Two new balls for each innings

6. Matches start at 1pm sharp

7. Players only need to pay for teas when they play at home.

8. Match fees, as usual, will be decided at the SPCC pre-season committee meeting

9. Teams we will play (home and away)

1st XI:
Glaxo
Lohana
SKLP
Southall
Hanwell
New Calypsonians
PPCC
Alexandra Park
Pinner

2nd XI:
Swamibapa
PPCC
Alexandra Park
Glaxo
Pinner
Lohana
West Harow
Southall
Crouch End

All clubs are North of us, but trips are not that far away!

NOTE: The rules of this league dictate that in order for a player to be eligible, it is necessary to register. Registration requires a photo ID card. Therefore, all members of the club, who will, or might, play for 1st or 2nd team is required to provide a passport type photo to your captain in advance of the season starting. Preferably via email.

As the SPCC Chairman pointed out at the recent SPCC AGM, there are numerous rules that govern the league and (as with any league) penalties can be awarded for breaches of the rules. You can familiarise yourself with the rules (if you really want to) by picking up a copy of the league handbook when they are released before the start of the season.