Players Back Twenty20 Cup And Suggest Improvements — 03/08/2005

In a survey conducted by the Professional Cricketers’ Association, players from the eighteen first-class counties have given their views on this season’s Twenty20 Cup competition. The overwhelming majority of players surveyed agreed that Twenty20 had built on the success of last year, with the great atmosphere generated at grounds being a key factor.

Premier One-day Competition

Ninety four per cent of players felt that the competition was as successful as last year with 89 per cent feeling the atmosphere was as good if not better than last season. Players also believe that Twenty20 has become the premier one-day competition in England.

Crowds

The players felt that crowds were better from Wednesday to Sunday but stressed that conditions had to be fit before they took to the field. A concern was that when games were being televised, the pressure on the umpires to get the game underway following rain could force them into an early start before conditions were safe enough to resume play.

Other Findings Included

• 77 per cent of players felt that playing some teams twice and others only once is an issue impacting the tournament’s integrity

• 72 per cent of players would consider the entry of the Scottish team or other overseas teams into the competition

• 53 per cent of players felt that Twenty20 should be extended to 2nd XI Cricket


Team Work

The PCA will continue to work with the ECB and the eighteen counties to further enhance this fantastic competition.