NORTH WEST "THINK TANK" READY TO DELIVER

The committee set up by the North West Cricket Union to look at the development of the sport here met again this week and have now finalised their report on the way forward to present to both the clubs and the Union.

The 7-man team will meet with the North West Management Committee next Thursday night, 6th October, to unveil their proposals and will then host an open meeting the following Monday evening, 10th October to discuss the moves with the wider public.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Brian Allen suggested that transparency was the key and their deliberations would be presented to the open meeting "in their entirety".

The Eglinton man said "it has been fairly evident in our meetings that a lot of clubs are struggling badly in so many aspects. We have looked at cricket from all angles; from youth structure, development, coaching, through to demands on players' time and financial problems. It is important now though that we discuss these things openly and frankly and that is why we are inviting all interested parties to Bready on 10 October.

This isn't just a meeting for players although we want as many as possible to come along. Umpires, press, scorers and spectators are all invited as well because there is a definite need for change and it will require everyone to have their say and to embrace what we're trying to do. We did not want to go directly to the North West AGM and spring our proposals on the clubs and we are also fully intent on ensuring an end to the cloak and dagger approach, therefore our invitation is to anyone with any interest to come along and have their say".

Whilst the group spokesman felt it would be unfair to discuss the finer detail of their report at this stage, it is widely believed that the proposals will include not just one but two 8-team senior leagues from 2013, revised "starring" procedures, earlier start times, Duckworth Lewis for all Division 1 and 2 matches and a substantial reduction in midweek cricket.