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Tournament Rules & Regulations

Tournament Structure​

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  • Teams: 7 teams will participate in the league.

  • Format:

    • Double Round Robin: Each team will compete against every other team twice in a double round-robin format.

    • This setup ensures that each team plays a total of 12 matches.

    • Total Matches: The league stage will consist of 46 matches in total.

  • Grounds:

    • Matches will be held across 4 designated grounds, providing diversity in venues.

    • Each ground will host a balanced number of home and away matches to ensure fairness.

  • Points System:

    • Win: 2 points are awarded for each win.

    • Loss: 0 points are given for a loss.

    • Tie or No Result: Each team will receive 1 point if the match ends in a tie or if there is no result due to external factors like rain.

  • Playoff Structure:

    • Top 4 Qualification: At the end of the league stage, the top 4 teams based on points will qualify for the playoffs.

    • Qualifier 1: Teams ranked 1 and 2 face off in the first qualifier. The winner of this match goes directly to the final.

    • Eliminator: Teams ranked 3 and 4 play each other. The loser is eliminated, while the winner moves on to Qualifier 2.

    • Qualifier 2: The loser of Qualifier 1 competes against the winner of the Eliminator in Qualifier 2. The winner of this match secures a spot in the final.

    • Final: The winners of Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2 meet in the final to determine the tournament champion.

Match Rules

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  • Overs: Each match consists of 20 overs per side, making it a T20 format. Each bowler can bowl a maximum of 4 overs.

  • Innings: Each team bats once per match. The innings switches when all batters are out, 20 overs are completed, or the team reaches the target score.

  • Match Duration: Each match should be completed within 3.5 hours, including a 20-minute innings break.

  • Powerplay Overs:

    • Bowling Powerplay: The first 4 overs of each innings are a mandatory bowling powerplay. During this period, only 2 fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle.

    • Batting Powerplay: An additional 2-over batting powerplay is available for the batting team. By default, this powerplay will be applied in the 16th and 17th overs unless the batting team opts to take it earlier, between the 5th and 17th overs. During this powerplay, only 3 fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle.

  • Field Restrictions:

    • Non-Powerplay Overs: After the powerplay, a maximum of 5 fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs.

    • Minimum Over Rate Requirement: Fielding teams must maintain the specified over rate and complete their 20 overs within the allotted time frame to avoid penalties.

  • Free Hit for No-Ball:

    • Any no-ball (foot faults or overstepping) results in a free hit for the batting side on the next delivery, allowing the batter to hit without the risk of being dismissed (except for run-out, handling the ball, or obstructing the field).

    • If a no-ball occurs during a free hit, an additional free hit is awarded.

  • Slow Over Rate Penalty:

    • Teams that do not complete their overs within the allotted time may face penalties, including fines, point deductions, or a fielding restriction for the remaining overs if they are behind the over rate.

    • Captains are also held responsible for slow over rates and may receive additional sanctions if the team repeatedly violates the time limits.

  • Super Over for Ties:

    • If a match ends in a tie during the knockout stages, a Super Over will be played to determine the winner.

    • Each team selects 3 batters and 1 bowler for the Super Over. The team that scores the most runs in the Super Over wins.

    • If the Super Over also ends in a tie, additional Super Overs are played until a winner is determined.

  • Late Start Penalty:​

    • If a team is late to begin the match at the scheduled starting time, 1 over will be deducted from their innings for every 7 minutes of delay.

    • A maximum delay of 30 minutes is allowed. If the team is not ready within this time, they may forfeit the match.

  • Rain Rules and DLS (Duckworth-Lewis-Stern) Method:

    • If rain or other interruptions affect play, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method is used to calculate a revised target.

    • A minimum of 5 overs per side is required for a match result; otherwise, the match is considered abandoned if the minimum overs cannot be completed.

  • Code of Conduct:

    • Players, coaches, and team officials are expected to uphold the league’s code of conduct, including respecting the umpires' decisions, maintaining fair play, and avoiding unsporting behaviour.

    • Violations can lead to fines, suspensions, or bans for individuals or teams.

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Ground Rules

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  • Grounds:

    • Designated Venues: 4 designated grounds will host the tournament matches, ensuring variety in playing conditions and convenience for teams.

    • Officials: Each match will have 2 on-field umpires and 1 scorer to ensure accurate record-keeping and adherence to match rules.

    • Match Referee: A match referee may be appointed to oversee adherence to tournament rules, handle disputes, and assess any on-field incidents.

    • Boundary Lines and Markings: Each ground will be marked with standard boundary lines, a 30-yard circle, and crease markings to ensure consistency across venues.

  • Pitch Conditions:

    • Pitch Maintenance: The organizers are responsible for pitch preparation and maintenance, including rolling and watering to ensure fair play. Pitches will be inspected before each match to confirm suitable playing conditions.

    • Matchday Conditions: Teams must adapt to the pitch conditions provided. No additional modifications to the pitch are permitted on match days.

    • Ground Inspection: Prior to the start of each match, umpires and the match referee will inspect the pitch and ground conditions to verify safety and suitability for play.

  • Player Safety:

    • Protective Gear: All players are required to wear appropriate protective gear, including helmets, pads, gloves, and abdominal guards, as per standard safety protocols.

    • Helmet Mandate: Batters and close-in fielders must wear helmets for their protection. Umpires will enforce this rule strictly.

    • Medical Assistance: Each ground will have basic medical aid and a first responder team available. In the event of an injury, umpires or the match referee may pause play until the situation is managed.

    • Weather and Ground Conditions: In case of wet ground conditions or extreme weather, the match officials will decide if the match can safely continue. Matches may be paused or rescheduled if safety is compromised.

  • Field Access and Conduct:

    • Team and Officials’ Access: Only players, match officials, and designated staff are allowed on the field of play. Spectators are restricted to designated viewing areas.

    • Code of Conduct: Players must respect the ground facilities, keeping them clean and undamaged. Violations may result in penalties or suspensions.

    • Noise Control: Players and teams are requested to maintain a respectful noise level to allow umpires and scorers to operate without distractions.

Player Eligibility & Team Composition

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  • Squad Size:

    • Each team can have a maximum squad of 20 players for the tournament.

    • For each match, a playing XI will be selected from the squad, with 11 players on the field and 4 designated substitutes.

    • The substitutes can replace fielders but are not allowed to bat, bowl, or act as wicketkeepers, unless replacing an injured player with approval from the umpire.

  • Player Eligibility for Playoffs:

    • To qualify for playoff participation, a player must have played in at least 3 matches during the league stage.

    • This rule ensures that only actively contributing players can participate in the playoffs.

  • Player Transfer:

    • If a player joins a team, they cannot play for any other team in the league for the entire season.

    • If a player is found violating this rule, they will be banned from the league for one season.

  • Impact Player Rule:

    • Playoffs Only: Each team may use the Impact Player rule in the playoffs, allowing a player substitution during the match.

    • The Impact Player can replace another player at any point in the match and is permitted to bat, bowl, or field as a regular player.

    • Teams must announce their Impact Player designation to the umpires before the start of the match.

  • Team Composition Requirements:

    • Captain and Vice-Captain: Each team must designate a captain and a vice-captain prior to the start of the tournament. In the absence of the captain, the vice-captain assumes all responsibilities on the field.

    • Fielding Restrictions: Substitutes may only replace fielders temporarily and are not permitted to field in close-in positions or act as wicketkeepers.

  • Injury Replacements:

    • If a player is injured and ruled out of the tournament, the team may request an official replacement, subject to approval by the tournament committee.

    • Any replacement player must meet the same eligibility requirements.

  • Conduct and Discipline:

    • Players are expected to maintain the highest standards of conduct, both on and off the field.

    • Violations, including misconduct or breaches of tournament rules, may lead to penalties, suspensions, or ineligibility for playoff matches.

Match Officials

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  • Main Umpire:

    • Appointment: One dedicated main umpire will be appointed by the organizers for each match.

    • Responsibilities: The main umpire will officiate the match, ensuring that the rules are followed and fair play is maintained.

    • Scoring: The main umpire will also handle scoring using the CricHeroes app to record match details, ensuring accuracy and real-time updates.

  • Batting Team Umpire:

    • Responsibility: A member from the batting team will assist as the secondary umpire for field-level decisions and to support the main umpire.

    • Duties: This person may help with decisions such as boundary calls and field placements but does not have authority over major decisions, which are reserved for the main umpire.

  • Third Umpire (Finals Only):

    • Usage: For the final match, if video review technology is available, a third umpire may be appointed to assist with video decisions on tight calls, such as run-outs and boundary checks.

    • Decisions: The third umpire’s role is limited to reviewing decisions where video evidence can provide clarity.

  • Match Referee (Knockout Matches):

    • Oversight: A match referee will be appointed for all knockout matches, including the semi-finals and final.

    • Duties: The match referee will ensure that both teams comply with tournament regulations, handle any disputes, and make final rulings on any incidents or rule violations.

    • Code of Conduct: The referee will oversee player behaviour and adherence to the code of conduct, issuing warnings or penalties if necessary.

  • Fair Play Monitoring:

    • The main umpire and match referee (in knockout matches) will monitor fair play throughout the match, ensuring that players respect the rules and each other.

    • Any unsporting behaviour or disputes will be managed on the field, with the referee having the authority to impose penalties if required.

Code of Conduct

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  • Sportsmanship:

    • All teams and players are expected to demonstrate high standards of sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

    • Respect for opponents, match officials, and teammates is mandatory. Celebrations should be within the spirit of the game, and players should refrain from excessive displays of aggression or dissent.

    • Players are encouraged to uphold the values of fair play, honesty, and integrity in all matches.

  • Discipline:

    • Behavioural Expectations: Any form of dissent toward umpire decisions, inappropriate behaviour, or abusive language (towards opponents, officials, or teammates) will not be tolerated.

    • Penalties: Violations of conduct rules can lead to a range of penalties, including but not limited to:

      • Warnings: Verbal or official written warnings issued by the umpire or match referee.

      • Fines: Monetary fines for individual players or teams, as determined by the tournament committee.

      • Loss of Points: Teams may be penalized with point deductions for severe or repeated breaches.

      • Suspensions: Players or teams may face suspension for one or more matches in the tournament if serious misconduct occurs.

    • Reporting Violations: All players, coaches, and officials are encouraged to report any violations of the code of conduct to the match referee or tournament committee.

  • Alcohol and Substance Policy:

    • Alcohol Prohibition: Consumption of alcohol by players, team staff, or officials is strictly prohibited during matches and in designated team areas.

    • Substance Abuse: The use of any substances that could impair performance or judgment is strictly forbidden before or during matches.

    • Enforcement: Any violation of the alcohol or substance policy will result in immediate action, including removal from the match and potential suspension from future matches.

  • Field Conduct:

    • Equipment Care: Players are expected to respect all equipment, including bats, stumps, and ground facilities. Any deliberate damage or mistreatment of equipment or facilities will result in penalties.

    • Verbal Exchange Limits: While light-hearted banter is acceptable, verbal exchanges that are provocative, aggressive, or personal are strictly prohibited. Violations will result in immediate warnings or further penalties.

    • Support Staff: Team coaches, support staff, and any non-playing team members must adhere to the same code of conduct standards.

  • Zero Tolerance for Discrimination:

    • Any form of discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or nationality is strictly prohibited. Violators will be subject to severe penalties, including suspension from the tournament.

  • Appeal Process:

    • If a player or team disagrees with a penalty, they may appeal the decision to the tournament committee within 24 hours, provided there is substantial evidence to support the appeal.

Weather & Delays

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  • Rain Rules:

    • For a match to be considered valid, a minimum of 5 overs per side must be bowled.

    • If weather interrupts play and prevents a minimum of 5 overs per side from being bowled, the match will be considered abandoned, unless specific rescheduling conditions apply.

  • Rescheduling and Reserve Days:

    • If weather impacts matches, the following guidelines will apply:

      • Reserve Day: If a match has started but is abandoned due to rain, it will be rescheduled to a reserve day (typically a weekday).

      • Conditions for Reserve Day: The match will only be rescheduled if all other matches scheduled for that day were not abandoned (i.e., if some matches are completed while others are impacted by rain).

      • Abandoned Matches: If all matches scheduled for a given day are abandoned due to weather, no reserve day will be scheduled for those matches.

  • T10 Format for Reserve Day:

    • If a match is rescheduled on a reserve day, it will be played as a T10 (10-over per side) format to accommodate the weekday scheduling.

    • Powerplay Overs:

      • Mandatory Powerplay: The first 2 overs will serve as a bowling powerplay, limiting the fielding side to only 2 fielders outside the 30-yard circle.

      • Batting Powerplay: A 1-over batting powerplay can be taken at any time between overs 3 and 9, allowing only 3 fielders outside the 30-yard circle.

    • Bowling Limitations: Each bowler may bowl a maximum of 2 overs in the T10 format to distribute the workload.

  • Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) Method:

    • If weather interrupts a match that has already reached the minimum overs requirement (5 overs per side), the DLS method will be used to determine revised targets based on the available overs and wickets.

    • The DLS method will apply to all matches impacted by weather where the minimum overs have been bowled, ensuring fair results are calculated based on the available playtime.

Team Responsibilities​

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  • Arrival:

    • Teams must arrive at the ground at least 60 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow for warm-ups, team meetings, and coin toss preparation.

    • The captain and team manager must report to the match officials upon arrival to confirm the team line-up and review any ground or match conditions.

  • Equipment:

    • Team Kit: Each team is responsible for bringing its own cricket kit, including bats, helmets, gloves, protective gear, and balls for warm-ups.

    • Uniforms: Players must wear uniformed team jerseys, with each jersey clearly displaying the player’s name and number on the back.

    • Match Balls: The tournament organizers will provide the official match balls. Teams are responsible for ensuring these balls remain in good condition during the match.

  • Scoring:

    • Electronic Scoring: The main umpire will use the CricHeroes app for electronic scoring. However, each team should be prepared with an additional scorer in case of technical issues.

    • Backup Scoring: If electronic scoring is unavailable, each team is required to provide one scorer who will collaborate with the other team’s scorer to ensure accurate scorekeeping.

    • Score Verification: Team captains should verify scores with the scorer or main umpire at regular intervals, especially at the end of each over.

  • Match Documentation:

    • Each team is responsible for ensuring that all players sign the match sheet before play commences. This includes confirming any designated substitute players or the Impact Player, if applicable.

    • Teams must submit their final playing XI to the umpire at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time, and no changes to the line-up will be permitted afterward, barring injury.

  • Conduct on Field:

    • Captains are responsible for maintaining discipline and ensuring their team adheres to the Code of Conduct. Captains are also responsible for communicating any umpire rulings to their team respectfully.

    • Teams must keep the field clean, disposing of any waste properly and respecting ground facilities.

  • Injury and Medical Preparedness:

    • Each team should have basic first aid provisions and is encouraged to assign a member as the designated first aid responder for minor injuries.

    • Teams should notify match officials immediately in the case of any serious injury.

Health & Safety

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  • First Aid:

    • A fully stocked first aid kit will be available at each ground to address minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, or strains.

    • Teams are encouraged to designate a member to assist with basic first aid if needed.

    • Ice packs and other basic treatments for sprains or heat-related issues will also be available.

  • Emergency Protocols:

    • Medical Assistance: Organizers will ensure that immediate medical assistance is available for any serious injuries or health issues during matches. Emergency contacts for nearby medical facilities and ambulance services will be on hand.

    • Emergency Contact Information: Each team is required to submit emergency contact information for all players before the start of the tournament to ensure quick communication if necessary.

    • Injury and Concussion Protocols: Any player experiencing symptoms of a concussion or other serious injury must be evaluated by the medical staff and cleared before returning to play.

    • Heat and Hydration: In case of high temperatures, players are advised to stay hydrated, and extra water breaks may be allowed upon request to the umpire.

  • Hygiene and Sanitation:

    • Hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes will be available in team areas and near the scoring station.

    • Players and staff are encouraged to use these regularly to maintain a clean and safe environment, especially for shared equipment.

  • Spectator Safety:

    • Organizers will ensure that spectators remain in designated viewing areas and are aware of any safety guidelines, including maintaining a safe distance from the field of play.

    • Any spectator causing a disturbance or posing a risk to others may be asked to leave the premises.

Registration

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  • Online Registration:

    • Interested teams can complete their registration online through the official tournament website.

    • A registration fee of £140 per team is required to confirm participation. This fee includes 11 team jerseys for the playing squad.

    • Additional Jerseys: Extra jerseys can be purchased at a cost of £15 per additional jersey.

    • Balls: Each team will be charged for the balls used during the matches. The exact charges per ball will be announced soon. Please stay tuned for updates.

  • Match Fee:

    • A match fee of £55 per game is payable by each team before each scheduled match.

    • Reserve Day Policy: If a match is abandoned due to weather and rescheduled for a reserve day, no additional match fee will be required for the reserve day.

  • Food and Refreshments:

    • The registration and match fees do not include food or refreshments. Teams are responsible for arranging their own food and drinks during matches.

  • Payment Terms:

    • All fees (registration and match fees) must be paid in full as per the tournament’s payment guidelines. Failure to complete payments may result in disqualification or forfeiture of scheduled matches.

    • Refund Policy: Registration fees are non-refundable, while match fees for abandoned matches (not rescheduled) will be returned to the teams.

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