GMCL Rules Tabs - C6 - The Players

GMCL Rules - Reviewed & Updated February 2024

SECTION C - THE PLAYERS

C (a)

This section of the rules covers all matters relating to the players in the league including ECB Categories, Amateur or Professional Status, Starred Players and player eligibility for GMCL competitions.

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6.1. Player Status defined by Home Office & ECB regulations (Professional or Amateur)

Reviewed and Updated Feb 2024

	6	Paid Players and Amateurs in GMCL (Player Status)
	6.1.	Player Status defined by Home Office & ECB regulations (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)
	6.1.1.	Player Status – Why is this important?
	6.1.1.1.	Player Status - As a professional league GMCL must comply with all UK regulations (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	6.1.1.1.1.	The Home Office & ECB have published terms to apply equally to UK residents and players from Overseas, to be known as "qualifying" and "non-qualifying" players
	6.1.1.2.	Player Status - ensures all competition is equal across the country
	6.1.1.2.1.	because the status of a player may limit the GMCL, County or National competitions that the player can compete in
	6.1.2.	Player Status – Making a Decision
	6.1.2.1.	Player Status - It is a club’s responsibility to correctly allocate a player type (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	6.1.2.1.1.	The club must base their decision on all relevant latest information and these rules
	6.1.2.1.2.	The facts determine the status
	6.1.2.1.2.1.	Attempts to alter facts or statements in order to meet eligibility criteria will result in bans or restrictions on the player and club,
	6.1.2.1.3.	Any decision made may be challenged by opponents, the Board, the Executive, the ECB or the Home Office, so appropriate records must be kept including those required under Employment Law.
	6.1.3.	Player Status - Definition of “Paid” or “Professional” player
	6.1.3.1.	Player Status - GMCL Definition of a “paid” player
	6.1.3.1.1.	This is a player who receives or expects to receive a reward, monetary or otherwise, in relation to cricket activity as a representative of or on behalf of a club or for playing for a team
	6.1.3.1.1.1.	from the club or from any business, sponsor or individual
	6.1.3.1.1.2.	at any time, before, during or after the season
	6.1.3.2.	Player Status - The Home Office definition of a “Professional” Sportsperson
	6.1.3.2.1.	is someone, whether “paid” or “unpaid”, who: -
	6.1.3.2.1.1.	is providing services as a sportsperson, playing or coaching in any capacity, at a professional or semi-professional level of sport
	6.1.3.2.1.2.	or is a person who currently derives, who has in the past derived or seeks in the future to derive, a living from playing or coaching and
	6.1.3.2.1.3.	is providing services as a sportsperson or coach at any level of sport, unless they are doing so as an “Amateur”
	6.1.3.3.	Player Status - “Unpaid” players can still be defined as “Professionals”
	6.1.3.3.1.	This is clear. Even if you do not pay a player, they can be considered as a professional from their past career or for what they wish to be in the future.
	6.1.3.4.	Player Status - A “paid” player is deemed to be a “professional player” in all references within these rules.
	6.1.4.	Definition of an “Amateur” player
	6.1.4.1.	The Home Office definition of an “Amateur”
	6.1.4.1.1.	This is a person who engages in a sport or creative activity solely for personal enjoyment and
	6.1.4.1.2.	who has not previously, does not now and is not seeking to derive a wage or living from the activity.
	6.1.4.1.3.	A person playing or coaching in a “Professional” charity game where there is no personal gain can still be considered an amateur player where there are no other indicators of being a professional player.
	6.1.5.	GMCL Policy on “Paid” or “Professional” players
	6.1.5.1.	GMCL is an “open league” (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	6.1.5.1.1.	A club can use multiple paid or professional players in their 1st XI dependent on Player Categories referred to below but
	6.1.5.1.2.	there is no mandatory requirement on any club at any level to have one or more “paid” players, except in the final 4 league games of the season where any club having a Named Professional, must employ a deputy should that Named Professional be unavailable in the circumstances provided in Rule 8.2.4
	6.1.5.2.	Paid or Professional Players - Legal requirements
	6.1.5.2.1.	Clubs are wholly responsible for all legal costs
	6.1.5.2.1.1.	This includes Visa fees to the Home Office and Tax and National Insurance contributions to HMRC in respect of all payments to players.
	6.1.5.3.	Paid or Professional Players – Restrictions on Appointment
	6.1.5.3.1.	No League club named professional shall be engaged (or approached with a view to engagement) by another League club for the following season before 1st August without the consent of that player’s present club. Penalty £100.00.
	6.1.5.3.1.1.	Clubs aware of an illegal approach must e-mail enquiries@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk with professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk copied in marked CONFIDENTIAL with appropriate details.

7. ECB Player Categories

Reviewed and Updated Feb 2024

	7	ECB Player Categories
	7 (a)	This section of the rules covers how the ECB has standardised groups of players across the country and how they can participate in the league
	7 (b)	This page covers:-
	7 (c)	Reasoning for using ECB Categories
	7 (d)	Category 1 – Qualified Player, living in England or Wales
	7 (e)	Category 3 – Not Qualified - not normally living in England or Wales
	7.1.	GMCL Use ECB Standard Player Categories (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)
	7.1.1.	ECB Player Categories - Reasoning for Categories
	7.1.1.1.	ECB categories standardise the descriptions of players across the country
	7.1.1.1.1.	Players are required to use this standard at registration with the league and on cricHQ
	7.1.1.1.2.	The clubs may be asked to verify the category selected for any player by the league or ECB as detailed below.
	7.1.2.	ECB Player Categories - Category 1 – "Qualified" player
	7.1.2.1.	Category 1 - Player Status
	7.1.2.1.1.	Category 1 includes “paid”, “professional” or “amateur” players
	7.1.2.2.	Category 1 criteria as issued by the ECB from April 2021 are
	7.1.2.2.1.	British Citizenship and born in England/Wales, OR 210 days residence in the 12 months up to 1st April prior to the season of registration AND,
	7.1.2.2.2.	Not played as a local player in professional international or domestic cricket in a Full Member country in the 12 months up to 1st April prior to the season of registration..
	7.1.2.3.	Category 1 players in GMCL
	7.1.2.3.1.	“Paid” or “Professional” Category 1 players can only play for a Saturday 1st XI in League, Cup or GMCL20
	7.1.2.3.2.	“Amateur” Category 1 players can play in any GMCL team, dependent on age qualification
	7.1.2.3.3.	There is no limit on the number of Category 1 players at a club
	7.1.2.4.	Category 1 players - Verification
	7.1.2.4.1.	Clubs should obtain copies of documents to verify citizenship, birth and ordinary residence to verify eligibility and may be required to submit these to the league, ECB or Home Office.
	7.1.3.	ECB Player Categories - Category 2 –category no longer used
	7.1.4.	ECB Player Categories - Category 3 – "Not Qualified player"
	7.1.4.1.	Category 3 - Player Status
	7.1.4.1.1.	This category covers “paid”, “professional” and “amateur” players who are "not Qualified” as a Level 1 player
	7.1.4.1.2.	Players in this category are often referred to as an “Overseas” player
	7.1.4.2.	Category 3 - ECB guidance should always be followed (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	7.1.4.2.1.	ECB guidance can be found https://www.ecb.co.uk/governance/regulations/governing-body-endorsement/
	7.1.4.2.2.	GMCL are required to submit records of all Category 3 player registrations to the ECB during the season.
	7.1.4.2.3.	Clubs should be aware that registrations can be challenged by the ECB on Cat 1 / Cat 3 status and on professional / amateur status and if you take unverified advice from a player agency or other third party this will not exempt the club from the consequences of an incorrect registration.
	7.1.4.3.	Category 3 players in GMCL (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	7.1.4.3.1.	Category 3 players are limited as to the teams they can play for in GMCL competition.
	7.1.4.3.2.	A club may only have one “Paid” or “Professional” player from Category 3
	7.1.4.3.3.	GMCL allows a maximum of one Category 3 player in a team.
	7.1.4.3.3.1.	At First XI level (Saturday League, Cup or GMCL20) this can be one Category 3 Professional or one Category 3 Amateur player .
	7.1.4.3.3.2.	At Second XI level (Saturday League, Cup or GMCL20) this can be one Category 3 Amateur player if they meet all other eligibility criteria.
	7.1.4.4.	Category 3 - Player Verification
	7.1.4.4.1.	Online cricket records are likely to verify a Category 3 player.
	7.1.4.5.	Category 3 - Documents (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	7.1.4.5.1.	“Passport” & “Visa” are documents which allow a person to enter and be in the UK legally, they are not determining factors in a player’s eligibility status.
	7.1.4.5.1.1.	A UK Passport does not mean the holder is a “Qualifying Player” and does not qualify a person as resident in the UK.
	7.1.4.5.1.2.	A Visa from the Home Office
	7.1.4.5.1.2.1.	There are a range of visas available for activity in the UK, and
	7.1.4.5.1.2.2.	professionals require a different visa to amateurs.
	7.1.4.5.1.2.3.	There are several visa types that allow amateur players to play cricket and there are a number that do not.
	7.1.4.5.2.	See Home Office overview here - https://resources.ecb.co.uk/ecb/document/2021/09/01/97da36b1-c77f-46ad-b34f-d76cfb1dc583/Visa-Overview-from-October-2021.pdf
	7.1.4.6.	Category 3 - Sponsorship and Governing Body Endorsement
	7.1.4.6.1.	Category 3 Professionals will require ECB Governing Body Endorsement,
	7.1.4.6.2.	There is more ECB guidance on Governing Body Endorsement here including a Step by Step guide. https://www.ecb.co.uk/governance/regulations/governing-body-endorsement/
	7.1.4.7.	Category 3 - Advice & Decision Making
	7.1.4.7.1.	Clubs should ensure they are acquainted with the latest rules before engaging a Category 3 or "overseas" player, but
	7.1.4.7.1.1.	Clubs should be aware that the Home Office rules will likely change year on year and not necessarily in line with the time at which you are looking to engage a player
	7.1.4.7.1.2.	The Executive will ensure that any advice supplied to us from the governing body is shared with clubs through the registered club contacts.
	7.1.4.7.2.	The Home Office is the arbiter and they should be contacted with any challenges.
	7.1.4.7.2.1.	The ECB or GMCL are not registered to give advice on immigration.
	7.1.4.7.2.2.	Information on aspects of immigration policy and law can be found on the Home Office website,
	7.1.4.7.2.3.	ECB can answer questions by e-mail to managedmigration@ecb.co.uk
	7.1.4.7.3.	GMCL can provide guidance based on the full facts submitted by e-mail to professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk but cannot make any rulings.
	7.1.5.	ECB Player Categories - Category 3 Exempt – this category is no longer used

8.1.; 8.2. Named Professional Player & Substitutes

Reviewed and Updated Feb 2024

	8	GMCL Player Groups & Restrictions
	8.1.	Named Professional Player (enquiries to professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)
	8.1.1.	Why do we have Named Professionals?
	8.1.1.1.	Named Professionals reasoning (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	8.1.1.1.1.	Most leagues have regulations regarding a class of player called Named Professional which relates to a player at the club who is paid. We are an open league where clubs can pay a number of players who can play at 1st team level only on Saturdays
	8.1.2.	Selecting a “Named Professional”
	8.1.2.1.	Named Professionals – who can be a “Named Professional”? (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	8.1.2.1.1.	a club may nominate only one player as a “Named Professional” and
	8.1.2.1.1.1.	Where a club has a “paid” or “professional” Category 3 player that player must be their “Named Professional”.
	8.1.2.1.1.2.	Where a club has no paid "non-qualifying" player but has one or more “paid” or “professional” players, the club must nominate one of those players as a “Named Professional”.
	8.1.2.2.	Named Professionals – “Named Professional” or deputy professional in another league in the season in question
	8.1.2.2.1.	A player who has been a “Named Professional” or deputy professional in another league in the season in question can only transfer to a GMCL club if the player becomes the GMCL club’s only “Named Professional”.
	8.1.2.2.2.	and the player cannot transfer to a GMCL club if the GMCL club already has a “Named Professional”.
	8.1.2.3.	Named Professionals – Multiple Clubs
	8.1.2.3.1.	No player registered as a “Named Professional” shall be allowed to play for more than one club in any GMCL Competition during the season
	8.1.2.3.1	Only GMCL Named Professionals can be a substitute or a deputy professional in another League.
	8.1.3.	Registering the “Named Professional”
	8.1.3.1.	Three Part Process
	8.1.3.1.1.	The “Named Professional” must be registered on the League’s Google Form https://www.gtrmcrcricket.co.uk/pages/transfers irrespective of whether they were the club's professional in the preceding year.
	8.1.3.1.1.1.	before the player’s first game and no later than 31st May.
	8.1.3.1.2	The “Named Professional” must be registered on cricHQ for the year and the £10 fee paid
	8.1.3.1.2.1.	The club’s cricHQ administrator must add the player to the club’s 1st XI and relevant GMCL20 team
	8.1.3.1.2.2.	When the Named Professional is registered on cricHQ then a club administrator must add “(Pro)” after the player's surname.
	8.1.3.1.3.	Named Professional’s contract
	8.1.3.1.3.1.	A signed copy of the Named Professional’s contract (only redactingfinancial details)
	8.1.3.1.3.1.1.	must be lodged with the League prior to the start of the season by sending via e-mail to professionals@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk
	8.1.3.1.3.1.2.	This must come from a club lead contact who will remain the contact for any communications regarding the professional.
	8.2.	Substitute or Deputy for the “Named Professional” (enquiries to professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)
	8.2.1.	Club eligibility for a substitute / deputy professional
	8.2.1.1.	“Named Professional” fails to arrive for the start of the season.
	8.2.1.1.1.	A substitute will be considered upon application but
	8.2.1.1.1.1.	If the player has not arrived and is not available for selection by the 4th scheduled set of league fixtures of the season the club involved will NOT be allowed to engage a deputy professional AFTER that date, until such time that the “Named Professional” arrives, or a permanent replacement is engaged.
	8.2.1.2.	“Named Professional” falls seriously ill or is injured during the season
	8.2.1.2.1.	A substitute will be considered upon application (accompanied by a medical professional’s report confirming the player has been seen by them and is unable for medical reasons to play cricket and an estimate of the period of layoff) but
	8.2.1.2.2.	the “Named Professional” must be in the UK at the time of the application, and must be available for examination as the Board see fit unless the medical professional’s report confirms that it would be reasonable for the named professional to return home given the length of anticipated recovery time and/or the nature of the injury/illness concerned 8.2.1.2.3 A medical professional for these purposes is a person who is legally permitted to certify fit notes.
	8.2.1.3.	“Named Professional” is called up for duties in the player’s home country (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	8.2.1.3.1.	A substitute will only be considered upon application
	8.2.1.3.2.	in the event of a “Named Professional” being unable to fulfil contractual obligations within GMCL for the club holding the player’s registration as a player by reason of having been required to represent their Country or their County equivalent (at any time in the season)
	8.2.1.3.3.	provided that the Club in question obtains and delivers to the League confirmation in writing from the appropriate Board of Control, County Board (or other like Authority),that the Named Professional was so required to represent the Country and/or County (or equivalent) (and the time period therefore) (“the Confirmation”) and that as a result of such requirement the named Professional would be unable to perform those contractual obligations (and “represent” for these purposes means attending training camps, coaching or playing in any matches)
	8.2.1.4.	A Deputy professional will NOT be allowed for any reason if (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	8.2.1.4.1.	a signed copy of the Named Professional’s contract (only redacting financial details) has NOT been lodged with the League via email to professionals@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk nor for (but not limited to these circumstances): -
	8.2.1.4.2.	A named professional travelling away for personal or family events of any nature
	8.2.1.4.3.	Any contracted absence
	8.2.1.4.4.	A UK county contracted player (including minor counties) called up to the county
	8.2.2.	Player eligibility to be Deputy Professional
	8.2.2.1.	A Deputy Professional must
	8.2.2.1.1.	Be a professional player from outside the league.
	8.2.2.1.2.	Be a professional player of equal standing
	8.2.2.1.2.	Not have played at a standard higher than the standard played by the player being replaced in the last 5 years
	8.2.2.2.1.1.	For example, a former county player cannot replace a player who only played at second XI county level and a current test player cannot replace a professional who last played Test Cricket over 5 years ago.
	8.2.2.2.	Players NOT eligible (but not limited to)
	8.2.2.3.1.	Amateur players from within the GMCL
	8.2.2.3.2	Amateur players from other leagues
	8.2.2.3.3.	Paid or Professional players playing at another GMCL club
	8.2.3.	Substitute or Deputy Professional - Application Process
	8.2.3.1.	Deputy Professional applications must contain
	8.2.3.1.1.	The reason for the request and
	8.2.3.1.2.	details of the timing of any injury / illness with medical reports and
	8.2.3.1.3.	must be submitted in the fullest detail
	8.2.3.1.4.	including how the player may be contacted at the time of the application.
	8.2.3.2.	Deputy Professional applications. (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	8.2.3.2.1.	Must be made to the league on the "Sub Pro request form" which will automatically submit an e-mail to professionals@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk, headed “URGENT – Deputy Professional XXXXX CC '' for the league's immediate attention.
	8.2.3.2.2.	by 8pm on a Thursday before the Saturday or Sunday games
	8.2.3.2.2.1.	this cutoff time will not apply in respect of injury/illness after that time but before the match concerned provided retrospective medical certification is obtained
	8.2.3.2.2.2.	but if this is not obtained in accordance with Rule 8.2.1.2 or is not received by professionals@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk by 5pm of the Wednesday following the match then the deputy professional appointed shall be deemed to have been an ineligible player for the match in question.
	8.2.3.2.3.	application on the form must be repeated for each weekend the deputy is required, even if the same player is used unless advance notice is given.
	8.2.3.3.	Deputy Professional application form requires the following (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	8.2.3.3.1.	Full name of the named professional who needs to be replaced
	8.2.3.3.2.	Full explanation surrounding the request, reason, injury details, when occurred, length of expected layoff and medical opinion sought, or the Confirmation if Rule 8.2.1.3.3 applies.
	8.2.3.3.3.	full name of the proposed replacement
	8.2.3.3.4.	proposed replacement's current club
	8.2.3.3.5.	Highest standard played by this player in last 5 years
	8.2.3.3.6.	Current club has given permission (where applicable)
	8.2.3.3.7.	Name of person at players home club giving permission
	8.2.3.3.8.	Status of player – Category 1 or Category 3
	8.2.3.3.8.1	and in the case of Category 3, the type of visa held
	8.2.3.4.	The Board's representative will respond to the sender of the application and update the data on the deputy professionals section of the website
	8.2.4.	Integrity of appointments (This section NEW Winter 23/24)
	8.2.4.1.	We must have a level playing field across the whole season.
	8.2.4.1.1.	It is important for all clubs in a division where there are named professionals that there is integrity in respect of the application of the deputy professional rules and this is particularly so towards the end of the season when clubs are challenging for promotion/attempting to avoid relegation.
	8.2.4.1.2.	With this in mind, in any of the last four league games of a season, if a club is legitimately entitled to a deputy professional under the illness/injury rule or return to home club/country rule, then in such matches that club MUST engage a deputy professional.
	8.2.4.1.2.1	However, if a game in the last four games is a Dead Rubber then neither team is obliged to engage a deputy professional if they would otherwise have been obliged to under Rule 8.2.4.1.2.
	8.2.4.1.2.2.	A Dead Rubber game is one where, on the application of either club involved in the game, the League gives authorisation that the game is a Dead Rubber, namely that the game concerned will not (as a mathematical certainty or as near to a mathematical certainty as the League considers acting reasonably)
	8.2.4.1.2.2.1.	affect the promotion or relegation prospects or title winning prospects of the 2 clubs involved or any other club in the division; nor
	8.2.4.1.2.2.2.	affect any club’s position in the table if the position in the table affects that club’s entry or non entry into any other competition (eg the LCF Cup)
	8.2.4.1.2.3.	If there is any reasonable doubt as to whether a game is to be considered as a Dead Rubber then the game will NOT be declared a Dead Rubber and the League’s determination on the issue of Dead Rubbers shall be final and binding and not appealable.
	8.2.4.1.3.	The sanction for failure is set out in the Penalties Appendix

8.3.; 8.4. Restrictions on Players in GMCL Competition & Loan Players

Reviewed and Updated Feb 2024

	8.3.	Restrictions on Players in GMCL (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)
	8.3.1.	Banned or Suspended Players
	8.3.1.1.	Bans or suspensions imposed by GMCL, other Leagues or ECB
	8.3.1.1.1.	No player shall play in any match under the auspices of GMCL who is currently suspended from playing cricket by either the ECB, LCF, GMCL or any other cricket league or equivalent body.
	8.3.2.	Age Restrictions
	8.3.2.1.	Club’s Duty of Care for young players
	8.3.2.1.1.	In allowing any junior players to play in Open Age Cricket
	8.3.2.1.1.1.	It is essential that Clubs and Coaches recognise the “Duty of Care” obligations towards their young players.
	8.3.2.1.1.2.	Junior player’s safety and protection must be utmost in club officials’ and captain’s thinking
	8.3.2.2.	School Year 6 (under 11) and below
	8.3.2.2.1.	Players from School Year 6 or below may not compete in GMCL Open Age Cricket
	8.3.2.3.	School Year 7 (under 12)
	8.3.2.3.1.	Players from School Year 7 must meet the following criteria
	8.3.2.3.1.1.	the player must be selected in a County U12 squad in Spring or a Summer squad for that season which is deemed by ECB Performance Managers to be of a standard above “District Level” (or its equivalent from time to time) are eligible to play Open Age Cricket and
	8.3.2.3.1.2.	the player must be at least 11 years old on 1st September preceding the season and
	8.3.2.3.1.3.	the player must have written parental or guardian consent to play, lodged with their club.
	8.3.2.4.	School Year 8 (under 13)
	8.3.2.4.1.	Players in School Year 8 must have explicit written consent from a parent or guardian lodged with their club before participating in Open Age matches.
	8.3.2.4.2.	Clubs must ensure that their player registration procedures ensure that consent is obtained.
	8.3.2.4.3.	The ECB guidance relating to changing and showering must be adhered to.
	8.3.2.5.	School Year 9 (under 14) and above
	8.3.2.5.1.	All players in School Year 9 (under 14) and above may play unhindered in GMCL Open Competition where it is considered safe for them to do so.
	8.3.2.6.	Players Under 19 and below may face restrictions in their role in a game.
	8.3.2.6.1.	Detailed Guidance can be found in the ECB document in our Junior Documents page of the GMCL website.
	8.3.2.7.	For GMCL junior competition
	8.3.2.7.1.	All players must be amateur players who must meet the age group criteria,
	8.3.2.7.1.1.	Age group concessions may be granted as determined by the junior committee upon application.
	8.3.3.	Starred Players
	8.3.3.1.	Overview of Starred Player system
	8.3.3.1.1.	GMCL have a Starred Player system to prevent the best players from playing at 2nd XI, 3rd XI & 4th XI level and below
	8.3.3.1.1.1.	Clubs are required to identify their best players pre-season and mid-season and maintain their lists to ensure a fair competition.
	8.3.3.1.1.2.	The full Starred Player rules are under Player Qualification for GMCL League and Cup Competitions
	8.4.	Player Shortages (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)
	8.4.1.	Loan Players
	8.4.1.1.	Loan Player – Why do we have Loan Players?
	8.4.1.1.1.	GMCL have introduced the Loan Player rule to give competitive cricket to more players
	8.4.1.1.1.1.	This allows players not selected at their own club to help another club fulfil a league fixture where they are shorthanded and so not spoil a game for those players who are available and supports the ECB’s “Get the Game On” policy.
	8.4.1.2.	Loan Player - When can Loan Players be used?
	8.4.1.2.1.	Where a club knows in advance that it may have a shortage of players for a League fixture
	8.4.1.2.1.1.	it may apply to the league to use loan players from other local GMCL clubs.
	8.4.1.2.2.	All teams in Divisions 4 and below and the Sunday competition are allowed to take loan players for League matches.
	8.4.1.2.3.	Loan players cannot be used in cup or GMCL20 matches
	8.4.1.3.	Loan Player - Player Eligibility
	8.4.1.3.1.	The player loaned must be a registered GMCL player but
	8.4.1.3.1.1.	No starred player may be loaned, this includes Junior Exempt Players that are starred and
	8.4.1.3.1.2.	players may not play against their parent club
	8.4.1.3.2.	For a Saturday match,
	8.4.1.3.2.1.	players must not have been selected for their own club’s equivalent games on that day and choose to play on loan
	8.4.1.3.3.	Where a Saturday team has no game on a particular day,
	8.4.1.3.3.1.	players cannot be loaned when they have played in 2 of the last 3 matches in which that player was available for selection.
	8.4.1.3.4.	For a Sunday match,
	8.4.1.3.4.1.	players not selected for their own club’s game that day who did not play in the Saturday teams for their home club on the preceding day.
	8.4.1.4.	Loan Player - Arrangements (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	8.4.1.4.1.	The league makes no arrangements for loans to take place.
	8.4.1.4.2.	Clubs should
	8.4.1.4.2.1.	Complete the loan request form on the GMCL website, with sufficient time to ensure full arrangements can be completed by 8pm on the Thursday prior to the fixture for which they will have player shortage
	8.4.1.4.2.2.	ensure they have written agreement of the club holding the player’s registration to the arrangement.
	8..4.1.4.3.	When all is agreed and approved, GMCL will add a player record to the team on cricHQ to be used on matchday.
	8.4.1.4.4.	Any player who plays as a loan player may only play one game per weekend

9.1.; 9.2. Player Registrations, Player Transfers & Leavers

Reviewed and Updated Feb 2024

	9	Player Registrations
	9.1.	Player – Club Registrations
	9.1.1.	GMCL Club Registration
	9.1.1.1.	All players must, irrespective of age, be registered with a club
	9.1.1.1.1.	As a bone fide, fully paid up member of any club that they represent
	9.1.1.1.1.	Or as a registered professional or Category 3 player of the club, or
	9.1.1.1.2.	Or be on temporary loan to that club through agreed procedures.
	9.1.2.	Multiple Club Registrations
	9.1.2.1.	No player may be registered with a club or play for that club where registered for more than one club in open age competition in any league in any season unless
	9.1.2.1.1.	there has been an agreed transfer between clubs during the season and all debts at the previous club are settled and all bans served or
	9.1.2.1.2.	there is an agreed temporary loan in place between GMCL clubs in accordance with GMCL rules
	9.1.2.1.3.	the player is a club’s named professional and the player plays as a deputy professional in another league on a day when the GMCL club holding the player’s registration does not have a first team league, first team cup or GMCL20 game
	9.1.2.1.4.	e.g. A player registered at Club A who does not get a game, cannot turn out for Club B or vice-versa unless the loan procedures can come into play.
	9.1.3.	Multiple Competitions
	9.1.3.1.	No player registered in another league can play open age cricket for a GMCL team in any season unless
	9.1.3.1.1.	They are playing for the same club in both competitions i.e. a club from another league playing in GMCL Sunday competition
	9.1.3.1.2.	there has been an agreed transfer between clubs during the season and all debts at the previous club are settled and all bans served or
	9.1.3.1.3.	the player is playing in a GMCL game as a deputy professional approved by the GMCL Board
	9.1.3.1.4.	eg A player playing at Club A in a Saturday League outside GMCL may not play for Club B in GMCL Sunday Competition or vice versa
	9.2.	Player – Registration with the League
	9.2.1.	Players registering with a new GMCL club
	9.2.1.1.	Player Registration -The Google form must be completed by the player joining a new club (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	9.2.1.1.1.	for the following
	9.2.1.1.1.1.	Any player over 13 new to club cricket or
	9.2.1.1.1.2.	Any player rejoining after a 3-year spell away from the game who will play for an open age team at the club
	9.2.1.1.1.3.	Any player registering as a club “Named Professional” for the season
	9.2.1.1.1.4.	Any player playing as a Deputy Professional for a GMCL club in the season
	9.2.1.1.1.5.	Any player registering as an Category 3 Amateur player for the season
	9.2.1.1.1.6.	Any player transferring from inside or outside the league to a GMCL club with less than 3 years between clubs – also see “Player transfer requirements” below
	9.2.1.1.2.	The details required on this form are sufficient to meet ECB requirements on registration of Category 3 players and may be used for verification purposes.
	9.2.1.2.	Player Registration - Deadline dates
	9.2.1.2.1.	All players must be fully registered with the league (registration form & cricHQ) before playing in any GMCL game
	9.2.1.2.1.	All Named Professionals and Category 3 players cannot register after 31st May in the season
	9.2.1.2.2.	All players who have played any open age first class or list A cricket in any country in the 3 years prior to the 31st May in the season in question cannot register after 31st May in the season in question.
	9.2.1.2.3.	For all other players the registration deadline is 31st July in the season.
	9.2.1.3.	Player Transfer requirements (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	9.2.1.3.1.	The League operates a two-stage paperless transfer system
	9.2.1.3.2.	The GMCL transfer system must be driven by the player
	9.2.1.3.2.1.	A Google form must be completed by the player, this is on the GMCL website https://www.gtrmcrcricket.co.uk/pages/transfers
	9.2.1.3.2.2.	Deliberately incorrect or misleading/false statements will result in a penalty as set out in the Penalties Appendix
	9.2.1.3.2.3.	There is no time limit to the league receiving information in respect of false details given at registration.
	9.2.1.3.3.	The player must then request that their contact at the old club e-mails the league on players@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk (E-mail Subject Header should be “New Player Transfer: add player Name”)
	9.2.1.3.3.1.	to state that there are no objections to the transfer from that club and
	9.2.1.3.3.2.	to state that there are no outstanding liabilities and no bans currently in place.
	9.2.1.4.	Player Transfer clearance to play for new club
	9.2.1.4.1.	All approved transfers will be shown on the league website, this list updated in real time, as entries are submitted
	9.2.1.4.2.	When this is done, the transfer is confirmed and the player may play for their new club
	9.2.1.4.3.	If the transfer is between GMCL clubs, the GMCL administrator will transfer the player record on cricHQ, (cricHQhelp@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk)
	9.2.1.4.4.	There is no requirement to miss any games following a transfer provided the above procedures are followed and clearance is granted.
	9.2.2.	Players new to GMCL - cricHQ registration
	9.2.2.1.	All players must be registered on cricHQ,
	9.2.2.1.1.	All players new to GMCL must register on cricHQ and fees paid before they can play in GMCL competition
	9.2.2.1.2.	Registration procedures are shown on the league website
	9.2.2.2.	Failure to register on cricHQ and incorrect registrations
	9.2.2.2.1.	Players not registered by the first game or having unpaid fees will not be able to play until properly registered.
	9.2.2.2.2.	It is the club’s cricHQ admin’s responsibility to ensure all their players are registered on cricHQ
	9.2.2.2.2.1.	and registered in accordance with laid down procedures particularly for transfers and Category 3 players
	9.2.2.2.2.2.	failure to do so will result in a fine of £50.00 in each case per game to be paid by the club.
	9.2.3.	Adding new players to cricHQ Team Squads (enquiries to cricHQhelp@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk)
	9.2.3.1.	After a player has registered for the club,
	9.2.3.1.1.	the club's cricHQ admin must ensure that the player is allocated to all the club’s squads (age groups, 1st XI, 2nd XI etc) for whom they may play.
	9.2.4.	Player Leaving your club (enquiries to cricHQhelp@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk)
	9.2.4.1.	Please do not delete any records on cricHQ.
	9.2.4.1.1.	The player record should be archived at your club,
	9.2.4.1.2.	The club’s cricHQ admin should find the player on the club’s player list and click on the …•••..and any new club will pick up the cricHQ record when needed

10.1.; 10.2.; 10.3.; 10.4.; 10.5.; 10.6,;10.7,; 10.8. Player Qualification for League, Cup & GMCL20

Reviewed and Updated Feb 2024

	10	Player Qualification for GMCL League & Cup Competitions
	10 (a)	This section of the rules helps you determine the players that are available for each team
	10.1.	GMCL League and Cup Competitions - Summary Notes
	10.1.1.	Appropriate Players & Eligibility - Summary
	10.1.1.1.	Clubs are reminded that all GMCL League & Cup competitions are meant to be for the appropriate players at their club
	10.1.1.1.1.	The First XI competitions are for the best players you have available and
	10.1.1.1.2.	attempts to play higher grade players in lower teams without valid reason will be frowned upon and penalties considered after consideration by the Board / Executive.
	10.1.1.2.	Only players meeting the registration requirements as set out in these full rules regarding players shall be eligible to play in the League and Cup Competitions. (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	10.1.1.2.1.	Paid players, Professionals and Category 3 players are only eligible to play at First XI level in GMCL League & Cup Competitions except that Category 3 amateur players are eligible to play in 2nd XI Saturday league matches in 2nd XI cups and in 2nd XI GMCL20 if all other eligibility criteria met
	10.1.1.2.2.	Starred player rules apply to GMCL League and Cup Competitions
	10.1.1.2.3	Loan players are not allowed in GMCL Cup & GMCL20 competitions.
	10.1.1.2.4.	The exemptions for Junior Exempt Players apply to league games, cup games & GMCL20 games
	10.1.1.2.5.	No player shall be allowed to play for more than one club in GMCL Cup Competitions in the same season - “Cup-Tied”
	10.1.1.2.5.1.	This includes players who have transferred between GMCL clubs who played in a GMCL cup at their original club but
	10.1.1.2.6.	Players transferring in from outside GMCL are eligible for GMCL Cup Competitions.
	10.1.1.8.	For the purpose of these rules relating to the Cup, reference to “the same round” refers to Round of 32, Round of 16, Round of 8 etc,
	10.1.1.8.1.	i.e.the maximum number of teams remaining in each competition at the start of the round.
	10.1.2.	Exceptions & Disputes on Eligibility- Summary
	10.1.2.1.	Before the match
	10.1.2.1.1.	If any club feels that there should be an exception to these rules, in advance of the game, there are full procedures below
	10.1.2.1.2.	It is the responsibility of clubs to select eligible and appropriate players
	10.1.2.1.3.	Umpires do not give rulings on eligibility on match day and should not be asked to.
	10.1.2.2.	After a match
	10.1.2.2.1.	any club may object to any player used by any team, see below
	10.1.2.2.2.	the Board, on consideration of the official scorecard, umpire’s reports, and captain’s reports may object to any player used by any team, see below
	10.1.2.3.	The Board or delegated Sub-Committee have the power to deal with any breach of these eligibility rules as they deem necessary including, without limitation, disciplining the captain of an offending club.
	10.2.	GMCL First XI League & Cup Match Eligibility
	10.2.1.	First XI Restrictions on Selection
	10.2.1.1.	All players registered at a club are eligible to play for the club’s First XI in League and Cup competitions with the following exceptions
	10.2.1.1.1.	Any player currently banned or otherwise deemed ineligible within these rules must not play for the First XI.
	10.2.1.1.2.	Players must meet the minimum Age Restriction for GMCL Open Age competition
	10.2.1.2.	First XI - There are additional restrictions for League competition.
	10.2.1.2.1.	First XIs playing in the Sunday League may use only Category 1 players.
	10.2.1.2.2.	First XIs playing in the Saturday competition are limited to 1 Category 3 player
	10.2.1.3.	First XI - There are additional restrictions for the cup
	10.2.1.3.1.	In the Cup, matches in the same round on different days
	10.2.1.3.1.1.	No player, having played for the Second XI in the Cup shall be allowed to play for the First XI in the same round of the cup competition (and vice-versa).
	10.2.1.3.2.	In the Cup from the quarter final (“last 8” / “Round of 8”) onwards,
	10.2.1.3.2.1.	By the date of the match in question the following player types must have played in at least four matches (league or cup but not GMCL20) for the team concerned in the current season.
	10.2.1.3.2.1.1.	all Category 3 players
	10.2.1.3.2.1.2.	all players who have played any open age first class or List A cricket in any country in the 3 years prior to 31st May in the season in question.
	10.2.1.3.3.	This rule does not apply to a deputy/substitute professional properly appointed
	10.2.1.4.	Any reference to a match in this rule shall not count a match in which there is no play.
	10.3.	Starred Players - Managing restrictions and fair competition below First XI cricket
	10.3.1.	Starred Players - Second XI, Third XI & Fourth XI Restrictions on Selection (enquiries to webadmin@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk)
	10.3.1.1.	Starred Player system in GMCL relates to League & Cup matches
	10.3.1.1.1.	There are restrictions around who can and cannot play for Second XI, Third XI, Fourth XI and below in GMCL League and Cup Competitions and these rules are below
	10.3.1.1.2.	These rules must be operated by all clubs with an open age team in GMCL competition irrespective of how many of those teams play in GMCL or where the club’s senior teams play.
	10.3.1.1.3.	The ‘Starred Player” system is not in place to equalise the Sunday competition across clubs of different standards, clubs must still develop and improve their players
	10.3.1.1.4.	The starred players list is for all registered players at a club and should include all juniors where they meet the criteria
	10.3.1.2.	The ‘Starred Player” system is designed to
	10.3.1.2.1.	be the most straightforward system available to provide a fairer and more even competition in GMCL at all grades below 1st XI.
	10.3.1.2.2.	prevent the absolute best players at a club from playing at Second XI at any stage of the season in cup or league games and
	10.3.1.2.3.	prevent all First XI players and the best Second XI players from playing Third XI and Fourth XI cricket (and below) in cup or league games, but
	10.3.1.2.4.	allow those who play Second XI but do not bat and bowl regularly to play at Third XI and Fourth XI level (and below) and
	10.3.1.2.5.	encourage clubs to register more players and play more juniors across the levels.
	10.3.1.3.	Deciding on the club’s starred players (This section refreshed (but not changed) Winter 23/24)
	10.3.1.3.1.	All clubs with two or more teams, irrespective of the league competitions where their open age teams play, must complete List A.
	10.3.1.3.1.1.	List A players are not allowed to play for any team lower than the First XI at any time
	10.3.1.3.1.2.	List A (minimum 5 names) must include
	10.3.1.3.1.2.1.	all players in receipt of any payment in cash or kind in respect of cricket made by the club or any associated person, business or sponsor and
	10.3.1.3.1.2.2.	all players deemed to be “professional”
	10.3.1.3.1.2.3.	all Category 3 players and then,
	10.3.1.3.1.2.4.	If the number of players from those three segments is less than 5 then the club must add the best players (based on performance) at the club to make the list up to 5.
	10.3.1.3.2.	All clubs with three or more teams, irrespective of the leagues where their teams play, must also complete List B.
	10.3.1.3.2.1.	List B players are not allowed to play for any team lower than the Second XI at any time.
	10.3.1.3.2.2.	List B must be made up of the next best players at the club not listed on List A
	10.3.1.3.2.2.1.	to make the total of List A + List B equal to 16 players.
	10.3.1.3.2.2.2.	This list is reduced to 8 players where a club’s 1st team plays in Division 3 or below.
	10.3.1.4.	Restrictions to the Lists A and B
	10.3.1.4.1.	Players can only be placed on the starred players list when they are available to play, for example
	10.3.1.4.1.1.	a player who is available only from July can only be on the list from July
	10.3.1.4.1.2.	a banned player cannot be on a starred player list for the period of their ban
	10.3.1.4.1.3.	Players can only be placed on the starred player list if they are available for selection on a regular basis for all teams at the club and play more games than not.
	10.3.1.5.	Any club found to be deliberately listing unavailable players or not listing players in order to strengthen the 3rd, 4th XI or below will attract a penalty from the Board.
	10.3.2.	Procedure for recording the club’s starred players
	10.3.2.1.	Starred player lists must be notified to the League before the beginning of each season
	10.3.2.1.1.	Further notes and the form for creating and updating your List A and List B can be found here - https://www.gtrmcrcricket.co.uk/pages/starred-players
	10.3.2.2.	the list of your starred players will be published on the league website
	10.3.2.2.1.	All starred players must be acceptable to the GMCL Board before players play for any lower team
	10.3.2.2.2.	The list is open to challenge by the Leagues compliance team or opponents
	10.3.2.3.	Every club should review their list of starred players regularly to make changes as they happen, (This section updated Winter 23/24)
	10.3.2.3.1.	any amendment must be submitted on the same form, re-listing all your starred players.
	10.3.2.3.2.	Any revision will be checked for eligibility.
	10.3.2.3.3.	In addition, at 30th June each year,
	10.3.2.3.3.1.	any un-starred player at that date who has played fifty percent or more of the players personal league games in the 1st XI must become a starred player and deemed to be on List B, therefore not be allowed to play in the Third XI from that point unless exempted
	10.3.2.3.4.	Accepted changes will be published on the Starred Players page on the website.
	10.3.3.	Junior Exempt Players - Reasoning
	10.3.3.1.	The starred players list is for registered players of all ages at a club who play at the higher levels and should include all juniors where they meet the criteria.
	10.3.3.1.1.	However, the league wishes to give junior players who may only play secondary roles in the first or second XIs the opportunity to play leading roles in lower grade matches
	10.3.3.2.	The exemption is that
	10.3.3.2.1.	Amateur Category 1 (England qualified) who are under 17 years of age on 1st September prior to the season who have not played county or county academy level at Under 16 level or above in the current or previous season, are eligible at any time for any league, cup or GMCL20 game at any level at their age group and above including Second XI, Third XI, Fourth XI or below.
	10.3.3.2.2.	In any Sunday Development Division this exemption is subject to the rules on development divisions in Rule 10.6
	10.3.3.2.3.	The players will be referred to as Junior Exempt Players
	10.3.3.2.4.	Starred Junior Exempt Players cannot be Loan Players
	10.4.	GMCL Second XI League & Cup Match Eligibility
	10.4.1.	Second XI Restrictions on Selection
	10.4.1.1.	Second XI - In League and Cup competitions (This section amended Winter 23/24)
	10.4.1.1.1.	No player on Starred Player List A can play for the Second XI in League or Cup competitions at any time except that 1 Category 3 amateur player is eligible to play in 2nd XI Saturday league matches.2nd XI cup matches and 2nd XI GMCL20 if all other eligibility criteria are met
	10.4.1.1.2.	Only Category 1 (England qualified) not on List A, are eligible to play for the Second XI except that one Category 3 amateur player is eligible to play in 2nd XI Saturday league matches, 2nd XI cup matches and 2nd XI GMCL20 if all other eligibility criteria are met
	10.4.1.1.3.	Any player currently banned or otherwise deemed ineligible within these rules must not play for the Second XI.
	10.4.1.2.	Second XI - There are additional restrictions for League competition
	10.4.1.2.1.	where the Second XI play on the same day as the First XI
	10.4.1.2.1.1.	then the starred player rules apply so all club registered players not on List A are eligible for the Second XI
	10.4.1.2.1.2.	except in the last three league matches of the season where any player who has played in six or more league matches in the First XI in the season must also have played in a minimum of 3 Second XI league matches in the season to be eligible for the Second XI.
	10.4.1.2.2.	where the First XI play in the Saturday League Competition and the Second XI play in the Sunday League Competition,
	10.4.1.2.2.1.	then all club registered players not on List A are eligible for the Second XI throughout the season.
	10.4.1.2.3.	where the Second XI normally play on the same day as the First XI but they occasionally play on different days of the weekend for whatever reason,
	10.4.1.2.3.1.	then no players playing in the 1st XI shall play in the Second XI game on the same weekend
	10.4.1.2.4.	Any reference to a match in this rule shall not count a match where there is no play
	10.4.1.3.	Second XI - There are additional restrictions for the cup (This section amended Winter 23/24)
	10.4.1.3.1.	When a club’s First and Second XI's are engaged in their respective cup competitions on the same day there are no eligibility restrictions for these games except
	10.4.1.3.1.1.	No player on Starred Player List A can play for the Second XI in Cup competitions at any time except that 1 Category 3 amateur player can if meets all other criteria for 2nd XI cup.
	10.4.1.3.1.2.	Only Category 1 players, not on List A, are eligible to play for the Second XI in the cup .except that one Category 3 amateur player can if meets all other criteria for 2nd XI cup.
	10.4.1.3.2.	No player, having played for the First XI in the Cup shall be allowed to play for the Second XI in the same round of the cup competition (and vice-versa).
	10.4.1.3.3.	Where the Second XI remain in the cup after the round in which the First XI are eliminated (eg R16 where First XI eliminated in R32),any player who has played 50% or more of their personal league match appearances in the current season for the First XI, up to the 2nd XI round in question (or where a reserve date is used, up to that date),shall not be eligible for participation in the Second XI cup round in question.
	10.4.1.4.	Any reference to a match in this rule shall not count a match where there is no play.
	10.5.	GMCL Third XI, Fourth XI and below League & Cup Match Eligibility
	10.5.1.	Third XI, Fourth XI or below, Restrictions on Selection
	10.5.1.1.	In the Sunday Premier League and Sunday Regional League
	10.5.1.1.1.	All players registered at the club shall be eligible for the Third XI, Fourth XI or below in these competitions with the following exclusions
	10.5.1.1.1.1.	All players on the club's latest Starred Player List A or List B
	10.5.1.1.1.2.	All Category 3 players
	10.5.1.1.1.3.	Any player currently banned or otherwise deemed ineligible within the GMCL rules.
	10.5.1.1.1.4	Any un-starred player if three of that player’s last five matches have been in the First XI (League or Cup but not counting GMCL20 )
	10.5.1.1.1.5.	In the last three league games of the season
	10.5.1.1.1.5.1.	if the player has played in six or more First XI or Second XI league matches in the season, unless the player has played in Third XI or Fourth XI league matches on three or more occasions during the season prior to the match
	10.5.1.1.2.	Any reference to a match in this rule shall not count a match where there is no play.
	10.5.1.2.	In the Sunday Open League
	10.5.1.2.1.	All players registered at the club shall be eligible for the Third XI, Fourth XI or below in the Sunday Open League with the following exclusions
	10.5.1.2.1.1.	Players who are paid or deemed professional or Category 3
	10.5.1.2.1.2.	Players currently banned or otherwise deemed ineligible within these rules.
	10.5.1.3.	In all the Sunday Cups for 3rd XI teams and below
	10.5.1.3.1.	All players registered at the club shall be eligible for the Third XI, Fourth XI or below in the Sunday cup competitions with the following exclusions
	10.5.1.3.1.1.	All players on the club's latest Starred Player List A or List B
	10.5.1.3.1.2.	All Category 3 players.
	10.5.1.3.1.3.	Players currently banned or otherwise deemed ineligible within these rules.
	10.5.1.3.1.4.	No player, having played for the Third XI in the Cup shall be allowed to play for the Fourth XI or below in the same round of the cup competition (and vice-versa across all such XIs).
	10.5.1.3.1.5.	In respect of unstarred players in the 3rd or 4th XI cups:
	10.5.1.3.1.5.1.	Eligibility is determined by comparing the player’s involvement with the Sunday team to their involvement with the Saturday team as follows:
	10.5.1.3.1.5.1.1.	We measure a player’s involvement in the Sunday team at any given date by taking the number of personal appearances in that season's Sunday XIs league and cup games (A) as a percentage of the number of league and cup games played by the club's Sunday Xl team or teams in the season to date (B). (3rd, 4th or below XIs playing on the same date and time = 1 game) (A divided by B) x 100. This is the “Sunday Percentage”.
	10.5.1.3.1.5.1.2.	We can then compare that to their involvement with the club's Saturday teams, calculated by taking the number of appearances in all Saturday team's league and cup games (C) as a percentage of the maximum number of games played by the club's Saturday teams in the season to date (D) (1st & 2nd XI playing at the same date and time =1 game). (C divided by D) x 100. This is the “Saturday Percentage”.
	10.5.1.3.1.5.1.3.	If the Sunday percentage is greater or equal to the Saturday percentage the player is eligible for the Sunday cup.
	10.5.1.3.1.5.1.4.	An example would be: If a player has played all 4 Sunday XI games and a Sunday XI cup game by 15 Jun but has played 6 of the 10 Saturday 2nd XI games the player would previously have been ineligible for the next round of the Sunday Cup because the 5 used to be compared to the 6 but the new rule for 2023 onwards means that the player has played 5 games for the Sunday XI out of 5, (100%) but 6 out of 10 on a Saturday (60%) therefore the Sunday percentage is higher and the player is eligible.
	10.5.1.3.1.5.2..	If an unstarred player (who has not played in any first team league matches that season) is solely ineligible because of this rule, the player can play for the 3rd or 4th XI (or below) in the Sunday Cup if
	10.5.1.3.1.5.2.1.	The club’s Second XI is playing on the same day and
	10.5.1.3.1.5.2.2.	either the matches are in the same round of the cup or the player did not play in the equivalent round for the Second XI
	10.5.1.3.2	Any reference to a match in this rule shall not count a match where there is no play.
	10.6	Sunday Development League
	10.6.1.	Vision
	10.6.1.1.	The GMCL Sunday Development Division(s) are designed to be for clubs with a common aspiration to assist younger players in their transition into senior cricket in an environment principally aimed at participation rather than competition under the guidance of senior coaches or players who do not take part in higher level competition.
	10.6.1.2..	The divisions are principally aimed at younger players who do not regularly feature in a club’s other senior teams, encouraging them to learn the longer form of the game without the constraints of "retirement" as is done in junior cricket when batting and so develop their skills to help them play in longer matches.
	10.6.1.3.	Focus from umpires and coaches should be to ensure that players’ behaviour and respect for opponents and officials is of the highest standards.
	10.6.1.4.	Focus should also be on preparing younger players for the tougher games in Saturday cricket and players should be withdrawn from the Development team once they take up a more senior role in club teams in order to make way for new juniors.
	10.6.2.	Player Eligibility (This section amended Winter 23/24)
	10.6.2.2.	It is not possible for GMCL to set a standard for players to play in the division; each club will be at different stages in the development of their junior sections and must determine which players they deem ready to take on the challenges of the longer game. "Development" is a broad term and can cover players playing their first senior games, players opening the batting or bowling for the first time in a senior game, or players learning to bat long enough to score their first 50 or even their first "ton". The guidelines are as follows and should be the aspiration in all games where possible.
	10.6.2.2.1.	any player currently banned or otherwise deemed ineligible within the Rules must not play in the Development Division
	10.6.2.2.2.	Only Category 1 players, not on List A or List B, are eligible to play in the Development Division.
	10.6.2.2.3.	at the date of the match concerned at least SEVEN players on a team must be aged under 18, there should be a mixed age group of players represented.
	10.6.2.2.4.	no starred player can play in the Development Division(s) even if the starred player is a Junior Exempt Player
	10.6.2.2.5.	The whole team should be made up of players who do not play on a Saturday or at least mainly those players plus some who only occasionally fill in on a Saturday and don’t have a big part in Saturday games and require more experience.
	10.6.2.2.6.	Clubs should not be registering new older players to play in the development division(s) , these divisions should always be for players already within the club junior structure.
	10.6.3.	Standards
	10.6.3.1	The Development Divisions should be setting the highest standards of discipline and fair play as education for the younger players on whom this division is focussed.
	10.6.3.1.1.	All players should be appropriately dressed in cricket attire and club caps to help understand they are part of their club, team and an organised competition.
	10.6.3.1.2.	Umpires should be Club Leaders or Coaches with the ability to manage the game by explanation and enforcement of rules and deal with respect between players and between players and officials. Umpires should be suitably dressed in dark trousers and white coat.
	10.6.3.1.3.	Sledging and abuse is unnecessary and uncalled for at any level of the game but in the Development Division(s) should be stamped out at every opportunity by captains and umpires.
	10.6.3.1.4.	Teams should both have scorers to allow the game to run smoothly.
	10.6.3.1.5.	Grounds should be prepared as if for senior games with full boundary and pitch markings
	10.6.4.	Awards
	10.6.4.1	There will be no trophies for the Development Division(s)
	10.6.5.	Development Division teams in the Sunday Cup
	10.6.5.1	Teams from the Development Division can enter the Sunday Cup. The relevant Sunday cup eligibility rules shall apply to them in the cup rather than the eligibility criteria set out in Rule 10.6.1
	10.6.6.	Communications
	10.6.6.1	A contact list of managers / captains will be shared for the purpose of managing the competition
	10.7.	Sunday Open League (This section NEW added Winter 23/24)
	10.7.1.	Eligibility restrictions in the Sunday Open League
	10.7.1.1.	Only players meeting the registration requirements as set out in League Rules regarding players shall be eligible to play in the Sunday Open League Competition.
	10.7.1.1.1.	The GMCL Sunday Open Division(s) is designed to be for clubs who wish to have less eligibility restrictions on a Sunday, or to aid development of additional skills for a player outside a more competitive environment, or for players to regain form, or to allow older players to lend experience on the pitch for player development, or simply if clubs struggle to fulfil the eligibility criteria for our other Sunday league competitions.
	10.7.1.1.2.	It is not possible for GMCL to set a standard for players to play in the division; as indicated above clubs may use this Division for different reasons, and in terms of development each club will be at different stages in the development of their junior sections and must determine which players they deem ready to take on the challenges of the longer game. "Development" is a broad term and can cover players playing their first senior games, players opening the batting or bowling for the first time in a senior game, or players learning to bat long enough to score their first 50.
	10.7.1.1.3.	The only eligibility restrictions are: any player currently banned or otherwise deemed ineligible within the Rules must not play in the Open Division Only Category 1 amateur players are eligible to play in the Open Division.
	10.7.2.	In game restrictions
	10.7.2.1.	All in play regulations as for other Sunday League games apply except as follows:
	10.7.2.1.1.	each batter must retire at 50 (and is deemed not out but cannot return),However a batter in the final pair who reaches 50 is not required to retire
	10.7.2.1.2.	Bowlers shall be restricted to 20% of the total overs (ie 8 in a 40 over innings),but if a player takes 5 wickets then they cannot bowl again in the match other than to complete the current over
	10.7.2.2.	Club umpires will operate in this division.
	10.7.3.	Bonus Points.
	10.7.3.1.	There will be no bonus points in the Open Division.
	10.7.4.	Other.
	10.7.4.1.	There will be no champions declared (or trophies) in the open division, the league will consider an award in this division (voted by the clubs involved) for the team which best embodies the spirit of the open division.
	10.7.4.2.	In the case of multiple open divisions these will, so far as possible, be regionalised, and not have promotion/relegation. The ethos of the open division is to allow clubs an easier route to Sunday cricket, and that whilst a healthy competition is encouraged, winning and league placement is not the prime goal.
	10.7.4.	Cups.
	10.7.3.1.1.	Teams from the Open Division can enter the Cups, and the relevant cup eligibility rules will apply rather than the eligibility criteria above.
	10.8.	Player Eligibility in the GMCL20 Competitions
	10.8.1.	There are few restrictions in GMCL20
	10.8.1.1.	Only players meeting the registration requirements as set out in League Rules regarding players shall be eligible to play in the GMCL20 Competitions.
	10.8.1.1.1.	Players (other than Junior Exempt Players) cannot play in the GMCL20 competition below 1^st team level in a season if they have played 3 or more games in the group stage of GMCL20 at 1st team level or in any knockout round of any 1^st team GMCL20 competition .
	10.8.1.1.2.	No player shall play for more than one club in the GMCL20 in any season
	10.8.1.1.3.	Loan Players are not allowed in GMCL20.
	10.8.1.1.4.	Deputy / Substitute Professionals are not allowed in GMCL20.
	10.8.1.1.5.	No exceptions to these GMCL20 eligibility rules will be considered

11.1.; 11.2.; 11.3.; 11.4.; 11.5.; 11.6 Exemption Requests, Objections, Appeals & Penalties

Reviewed and Updated Feb 2024

	11	Player Qualification - Exemption Requests, Objections, Appeals & Penalties
	11 (a)	This section of the rules covers circumstances where ineligible players are used
	11.1.	Decision on Player Eligibility
	11.1.1.	Responsibility of Clubs
	11.1.1.1.	Clubs should use these comprehensive eligibility rules in advance of a game
	11.1.1.1.1	Where they are unsure, clubs can seek guidance from their Club Liaison Officer (https://www.gtrmcrcricket.co.uk/pages/contact-us-new) by 8pm on the Thursday prior to the game by submitting the players details and the concern about eligibility
	11.1.1.2	Clubs are responsible for their decisions taken on player eligibility
	11.1.2.	Umpires do not decide on player eligibility
	11.1.2.1.	Umpires should not be asked to rule and will not give a decision on matchday
	11.1.2.2.	If opposing captains have an objection, then this must be dealt with post-match irrespective of result
	11.1.2.2	the penalties for playing an ineligible player are clear and should hopefully mean that the situation does not arise
	11.2.	Player Exemption Request in advance
	11.2.1.	Dispensation / Exemption to play ineligible players where eligible players not available (Updated and detail added Winter 23/24)
	11.2.1.1.	Where eligible players are not available
	11.2.1.1.1.	The league will consider a request to play a player normally considered ineligible where sufficient eligible players are not available, but only in exceptional circumstances.
	11.2.1.2.	Exceptional Circumstances
	11.2.1.2.1.	Claims are limited to a maximum of two applications for dispensations per club per season across both this rule and emergency exemption applications under rule 11.3.
	11.2.1.3.	Exemptions will not be granted for
	11.2.1.3.1.	A game in the Saturday League competition
	11.2.1.3.2.	Cup games or GMCL20 games
	11.2.1.4.	Exemption Requests will be considered for
	11.2.1.4.1.	a Sunday League game in exceptional circumstances
	11.2.1.4.1.1.	where a club believe that a player is or may be deemed ineligible
	11.2.1.4.1.2.	This will only apply for an unexpected temporary shortage of eligible players.
	11.2.1.5.	Before applying, clubs should always consider
	11.2.1.5.1.	Selecting a junior player under the Junior Exempt Player rules where relevant before considering selecting an ineligible player.
	11.2.2.	Players eligible for dispensation
	11.2.2.1.	Player Replacement
	11.2.2.1.1.	A dispensation will not be granted for a List A player
	11.2.2.1.2.	A dispensation will normally only be granted for the lowest standard List B player available where no unstarred players are available and no Junior Exempt Players are available.
	11.2.2.1.3..	All dispensations granted will be published on the website and open to challenge.
	11.2.3.	In Game restrictions on Player to be used
	11.2.3.2.	Dispensation Request - Restrictions on any replacement
	11.2.3.2.1	Before making an application please note that this rule can only be used to allow those fill-in players to take part without taking a leading role in the game.
	.11.2.3.2.1.1.	The player used may not bowl.
	11.2.3.2.1.2.	The player used must not bat earlier in the order than all Under 18 players in the team,
	11.2.3.2.1.3.	The player may not bat higher than number 7.
	11.2.3.2.1.4.	Wicket Keepers who have not played as wicketkeepers above 2nd XI may be used but only to replace a regular wicketkeeper who is not available, batting and bowling restrictions remain in force for that player.
	11.2.4.	Making an Exemption Request Website: https://www.gtrmcrcricket.co.uk/pages/exemption-requests
	11.2.4.1.	Dispensation Request - Deadline
	11.2.4.1.1.	The requesting club should email the league registrations@gtrMcrCricket.co.uk before 8pm on the Thursday preceding the game
	11.2.4.1.1.1.	detailing those exceptional circumstances and why there are no other eligible players available and stating the name of the registered player that the club wishes to use.
	11.3.	Player Exemption Request on Matchday
	11.3.1.	Emergency replacements (Updated and detail added Winter 23/24)
	11.3.1.1.	Emergency replacements for Sunday games on matchday
	11.3.1.1.1.	When clubs have found themselves short on a match day it has led to much disagreement so we must put rules in place rather than have a “sporting” agreement between clubs.
	11.3.1.1.1.1.	The league will not grant a dispensation for a player after 8pm on the preceding Thursday nor on the morning of the game.
	11.3.1.1.1.2.	Umpires cannot give an exemption
	11.3.1.1.1.3.	Ineligible players cannot be used in Saturday league games, cup games or GMCL20
	11.3.1.1.2.	Eligible players or Junior Exempt players should always be used as a late replacement where possible,
	11.3.1.1.2.1.	There is no restriction on batting and bowling (other than the normal bowling maxima rules) for eligible players.
	11.3.1.2.	Emergency replacements - Selecting a replacement on matchday
	11.3.1.2.1.	It is the responsibility of the club involved
	11.3.1.2.1.1.	to ensure that any player used is suitable and
	11.3.1.2.1.2.	to ensure that the player is used appropriately so as not to overly influence the result of the game in accordance with the following rules.
	11.3.1.2.2.	List A players cannot be used but List B players or non-qualifying players (appearances) can be used, only where there are no other options
	11.3.1.2.2.1.	but such players cannot be used on more than two occasions in a season by any club where there is a late cry off.
	11.3.1.2.3	The restriction on that player’s role in the game is as follows
	11.3.1.2.3.1.	The player used may not bowl.
	11.3.1.2.3.2.	The player used must not bat before any Under 18 player and no higher than 7.
	11.3.1.2.3.3.	Wicketkeepers who have not played as wicketkeepers above 2nd XI may be used but only to replace a regular wicketkeeper who is not available, batting and bowling restrictions remain in force.
	11.3.1.3.	Emergency replacements - Responsibility of Actions
	11.3.1.3.1.	If it is found that the club have not followed the rules and the guidelines then penalties can be levied on the club.
	11.3.1.4.	Emergency replacements - Notifying your opponents and umpires on matchday
	11.3.1.4.1.	The captain of the team using such a player must
	11.3.1.4.1.1.	Notify the captain of the opposing team and the umpires at or before the toss of any ineligible player used and the reason for use of that player
	11.3.1.4.2.	The captain of the other team must
	11.3.1.4.2.1	confirm to the umpires that they have been made aware of an ineligible player being used.
	11.3.1.4.3..	The umpires do not issue a ruling on the players suitability or eligibility and cannot prevent the player from playing
	11.3.1.4.4.	The league must be notified as soon as possible (webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk) after the game by the umpires on their report and the captain playing the ineligible player,
	11.3.1.4.4.1.	The league will take up the matter after the game if there is any issue arising
	11.4.	Player Development Exemption Applications For the avoidance of doubt, this rule does not apply to cup matches or GMCL20, where ineligible players cannot be used. (NEW added Winter 23/24)
	11.4.1.	Season Long Exemptions.
	11.4.1.1.	Additional Exemptions are available for Player Development
	11.4.1.1.1.	In addition to the single game exemption applications under Rules 11.2 and 11.3 clubs can make up to 2 season long development exemption applications for players (of any age) who are:
	11.4.1.1.1.1.	Cat 1 amateur players who are starred but are not on List A
	11.4.1.1.1.2.	for Sunday division league games (not any cups or GMCL20)
	11.4.1.1.1.3.	for the purpose of allowing that player to develop their less predominant skill
	11.4.1.1.1.4.	and/or allowing such player to play Sunday League to help develop less experienced players in that team
	11.4.2.	Application Process
	11.4.2.1.	E-Mail Application
	11.4.2.1.1.	The process is by way of application by e-mail to registrations@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk for review and approval stating:
	11.4.2.1.1.1.	club name and Sunday league team the application is for
	11.4.2.1.1.2.	the name of the player and confirmation of their main skill in Saturday cricket
	11.4.2.1.1.3.	if primarily a bowler, acknowledgment that if the exemption is granted that the player cannot bowl in Sunday league
	11.4.2.1.1.4.	if primarily a batter, acknowledgment that if the exemption is granted that player cannot bat higher than any u18 in the team or in any event higher than 7
	11.4.2.1.1.5.	acknowledgment that the exemption if granted will be reviewed at relevant intervals – if for whole season by 30th June or earlier if the League determines
	11.4.2.2.	Supporting information
	11.4.2.2.1	The League may ask for any additional information to support the application and then shall make a decision. Any exemption granted can be reviewed by the League at any time and withdrawn if the conditions of the exemption are not met or the League considers the exemption no longer has merit.
	11.4.2.3.	Active Date
	11.4.2.3.1.	A player cannot play under this exemption until formally approved by the League. These exemptions will be published on the League’s website.
	11.4.2.4.	Breach of the exemption
	11.4.2.4.1.	A player who plays in breach of the exemption criteria will be classed as an ineligible player (and the penalty rules for ineligible players applied) for the purpose of the relevant game and the development exemption for that player and the club in general for any further applications that season will cease
	11.4.2.5.	Challenge
	11.4.2.5.1.	It is not for umpires or the opposing team to make any challenge during a game regarding whether there is a breach of the development exemption.
	11.5.	Club Objections to a player’s eligibility after a match
	11.5.1.	Match Opponents or another Club objection to player eligibility after a match
	11.5.1.1.	Player Eligibility - Responsibility for Selection
	11.5.1.1.1.	Selection decisions are made by the club and the checking of player eligibility is the club’s responsibility.
	11.5.1.1.2.	It is not the umpires’ duty to decide on player eligibility on match day, the umpires will only check with scorers that all players are registered with the league and visible on the cricHQ app.
	11.5.1.1.3	Where a club has used an emergency replacement and
	11.5.1.1.3.1.	the opponents or any other club in the competition believe this to be outside the rules and/or spirit of the rules or
	11.5.1.1.3.2.	the club has failed to follow rules on another player’s eligibility then
	11.5.1.1.3.3.	representation should be made to the league by e-mail on webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk from any club’s senior officials - Chair or Secretary, summarising why you think that the rules have been breached.
	11.5.1.1.3.3.1.	The reason we ask that the claim is backed by the club chair or secretary is to verify that this is a club decision to challenge rather than an individual decision
	11.5.1.1.3.3.2.	we are not resourced to deal with individual’s applications.
	11.5.1.1.4.	The time limit for making an objection is 7 days from the date that the scorecard was posted to CricHQ.
	11.5.1.1.5.	There is no time limit on the league issuing a challenge on player eligibility when checking scorecards submitted
	11.5.2.	Board Procedure following objection
	115.2.1.	Objection Procedure - Verification of facts
	115.2.1.1.	All clubs should be aware that in checking any objection the league will, where possible,
	11.5.2.1.1.1.	check that all parties (the club at issue and the club objecting) have conformed to the rules in all their matches in the current season in the competition at issue, this will ensure that there can be no counterclaims between clubs in the future.
	11.5.2.1.2.	The appointed representatives of the Board will provide a ruling based upon the league’s eligibility rules.
	11.5.3.	Appealing a decision
	11.5.3.1.	An appeal can be made if permitted by the Penalties Appendix.
	11.5.3.1.1.	The appeal must be in accordance with the Penalties Appendix
	11.6.	Penalties for misuse of player eligibility system
	11.6.1.	Penalties for the use of ineligible players
	11.6.1.1.	Ineligible Player - Where a club has played an ineligible player
	11.6.1.1.1.	then in all cases the penalty is as specified in the Penalties Appendix
	11.6.2.	Multiple or Deliberate Breaches
	11.6.2.1.	Ineligible Players - Where a club has a number of breaches
	11.6.2.1.1.	Where a club is found guilty of multiple breaches on player ineligibility
	11.6.2.1.2.	then the Board may increase the penalty to more than those stated in the Penalties Appendix and look at a financial penalty for serious breaches.
	11.6.2.2.	Ineligible Players - Where a club deliberately misuses player eligibility rules
	11.6.2.2.1.	Where a club is found to be deliberately using player eligibility rules to avoid the forfeiture penalties
	11.6.2.2.2.	then the Board may increase the penalty to more than those stated in the Penalties Appendix and look at a financial penalty for serious breaches.

GMCL Rules Tabs - C6 - The Players

6

Paid Players and Amateurs in GMCL (Player Status)

6.1.

Player Status defined by Home Office & ECB regulations (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

6.1.1.

Player Status – Why is this important?

6.1.2.

Player Status – Making a Decision

6.1.3.

Player Status - Definition of “Paid” or “Professional” player

6.1.4.

Definition of an “Amateur” player

6.1.5.

GMCL Policy on “Paid” or “Professional” players

7

ECB Player Categories

7.1.

GMCL Use ECB Standard Player Categories (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

7.1.1.

ECB Player Categories - Reasoning for Categories

7.1.2.

ECB Player Categories - Category 1 – "Qualified" player

7.1.3.

ECB Player Categories - Category 2 –category no longer used

7.1.4.

ECB Player Categories - Category 3 – "Not Qualified player"

7.1.5.

ECB Player Categories - Category 3 Exempt – this category is no longer used

8

GMCL Player Groups & Restrictions

8.1.

Named Professional Player (enquiries to professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

8.1.1.

Why do we have Named Professionals?

8.1.2.

Selecting a “Named Professional”

8.1.3.

Registering the “Named Professional”

8.2.

Substitute or Deputy for the “Named Professional” (enquiries to professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

8.2.1.

Club eligibility for a substitute / deputy professional

8.2.2.

Player eligibility to be Deputy Professional

8.2.3.

Substitute or Deputy Professional - Application Process

8.2.4.

Integrity of appointments (This section NEW Winter 23/24)

8.3.

Restrictions on Players in GMCL (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

8.3.1.

Banned or Suspended Players

8.3.2.

Age Restrictions

8.3.3.

Starred Players

8.4.

Player Shortages (enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

8.4.1.

Loan Players

9

Player Registrations

9.1.

Player – Club Registrations

9.1.1.

GMCL Club Registration

9.1.2.

Multiple Club Registrations

9.1.3.

Multiple Competitions

9.2.

Player – Registration with the League

9.2.1.

Players registering with a new GMCL club

9.2.2.

Players new to GMCL - cricHQ registration

9.2.3.

Adding new players to cricHQ Team Squads (enquiries to cricHQhelp@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk)

9.2.4.

Player Status defined by Home Office & ECB regulations
(enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

GMCL Use ECB Standard Player Categories
(enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

Named Professional Player
(enquiries to professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

Substitute or Deputy for the “Named Professional”
(enquiries to professionals@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

Restrictions on Players in GMCL
(enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

Player Shortages
(enquiries to webadmin@GtrMcrCricket.co.uk)

Adding new players to cricHQ Team Squads
(enquiries to cricHQhelp@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk)

Player Leaving your club
(enquiries to cricHQhelp@gtrmcrcricket.co.uk)