Cricket ‘runner’ rules explained (From York Press)

Cricket ‘runner’ rules explained

10:55am Saturday 12th May 2012 in York Vale League

UMPIRES and players in the York cricket leagues have been reminded that injured players are still allowed to bat with runners.

There has been some confusion over the issue in the opening weeks of the season after a law change by the International Cricket Council which has banned runners at international level.

The MCC rules, however, remain unchanged and runners are allowed.

The issue came to light in the HPH York Vale Cricket League clash between Stockton & Hopgrove and Bishopthorpe, when Ian Holmes was injured while batting for Bish and was denied the chance to bat with a runner.

Tony Pawson, training officer for the York branch of the England and Wales Cricket Board Association of Cricket Officials (ACO), said: “It was a genuine mistake, but the ICC law has changed, but MCC rules have not.”

Meanwhile, the York branch of the ACO runs training courses for umpires every January. Further information is available by phoning Pawson on 01904 783770.