MCA COMPETITION RULES 2018-19 CONTENTS RULE 1 LAWS AND RULES TO APPLY RULE 2 ELIGIBILITY OF PLAYERS RULE 3 MATCH POINTS RULE 4 ATTIRE RULE 5 AWARDS RULE 6 BALLS RULE 7 BOUNDARIES RULE 8 GROUNDS AND WEATHER RULE 9 COVERS RULE 10 UMPIRES RULE 11 SCORES AND MATCH DETAILS RULE 12 FORFEITS RULE 13 VARYING THE FIXTURE RULE 14 ONE-DAY MATCHES RULE 15 TWO-DAY MATCHES RULE 16 TWENTY20 RULE 17 FINALS RULE 18 ONE-DAY FINALS RULE 19 CONDUCT RULE 20 APPEALS RULE 21 DISPUTES AND MEDIATION

RULE 1 LAWS AND RULES TO APPLY

The competition shall be played under the Laws of Cricket, as published by the Marylebone Cricket Club, except where otherwise provided for in these Rules.

RULE 2 ELIGIBILITY OF PLAYERS 2.1 Restrictions on Sunday Sides

(a) No player shall play in a match of the Association if on the first weekend they play in a higher grade of another adult competition.

(b) Restrictions are as listed by the Executive Committee in Appendix 5.

Where an adult competition is not listed in the Appendix, its highest turf and highest synthetic/matting grade are each regarded as equal to the Association’s A grade. Its second grade, and any second or ‘reserve’ division of its highest turf or synthetic/matting grade, shall be regarded as equal to this Association’s B grade.

(c) Clause (a) above shall not prevent a ‘previous player’ of a club from playing

in its highest XI in the Association, provided they have played 6 eligible matches for the club in the Association in the current and previous season, or 8 eligible matches in the current and previous two seasons. However the player must be eligible under rules 2.4 (Anti-Stacking in Last Two Rounds), 2.7 (Disqualified Players) and 2.8 (Professional Players).

2.2 Provisional Players on Team Sheet

(a) The team sheet must be provided to the umpires before the toss. In grades

below A Grade, two players may be named provisionally, and may be changed before the end of the tea interval on day one, provided they have not batted or bowled in the match.

(b) Eleven players may be named on the team sheet, except that 12 may be

named in C Grade or lower. In higher grades, 12 may be named by agreement between the two clubs. Only 11 of the 12 may be on the field, with unrestricted interchange provided no time is lost. Where 12 are named, bowlers may resume bowling immediately after returning to the field in place of another in the 12.

2.3 Two Grades in the Same Round No player shall play in 2 grades in the same round unless 1 of the following apply: (a) They are a regular player in the lower grade (i.e. they have played 3 or more

MCA matches in the current and previous season, and 2/3 of those matches were in the grade of the lower XI or below)

(b) They play in the lower XI as a “restricted player”, as defined in rule 2.15, and

the lower XI is not below C Grade. (c) They have a permit from the Executive Committee (d) The following are deemed equivalent grades and may be played in the same

round: (i) A Grade & A Sunday (ii) A Reserve/B Grade & B Sunday (iii) C Grade & C Sunday (iv) D Grade & D Sunday.

2.4 Anti-Stacking in Last Two Rounds

(a) Where a club has 3 or more XIs in the Association, a player may only move

down from their previous XI to the grade of the club's next lowest XI, over the period of the last two rounds in the two-day grades. 3 exceptions shall apply: (i) A player already qualified to play finals in a lower grade may move

down to that grade (ii) A player who plays in a lower grade (being C Grade or above) as a

“restricted player”, as defined in 2.15 (iii) A player who receives a permit from the Executive

(b) Where a club has a higher non-Mercantile XI, then in the last two rounds and subject to rule 2.4(c), a player from this XI may only be dropped to an XI in the Association if it is the club's next lowest XI, or one where they were eligible to play on the same weekend as the non-Mercantile XI.

(c) Where a player plays in another competition whose home-and-away season

finishes on an earlier weekend than the Association's, they may from that time only play in Association grades for which they were eligible during their final match in the other competition.

(d) Where previous clauses of 2.4 do not apply, then in the last two rounds a

club may not field a player lower than one MCA grade below their previous grade played that season in any other weekend adult competition, unless the player can qualify for finals participation in the MCA grade under rule 2.10(b) or a permit is obtained from the Executive.

2.5 Substitutes for Representative Players Notwithstanding rule 2.1, where a player is selected for an open or restricted-age representative game of the Association during a two-day round, their club XI may replace them for the weekend of the representative game with a substitute who has played for that or a lower MCA XI of the club previously in the season, regardless of whether the substitute plays that weekend in any higher grade of the MCA or other competition. Where a player is selected for the Association during a one-day round, the MCA XI they last played for shall be permitted the substitute. The representative player and their substitute shall be named to the umpire before the day's play, and the substitute can bat, bowl and keep wickets.

2.6 Absence from Representative Games A selected player who absents themselves for part or all of an inter-association senior or under-21 game without a reason satisfactory to the Executive Committee may be suspended.

2.7 Disqualified Players (a) Any person disqualified by the VCA, VSDCA, VMCU or any other

Association shall be deemed disqualified by this Association for the weekends that they actually miss play in the other competition.

(b) Where a player is disqualified by this Association for a specific number of

matches, they shall not compete until missing that number of matches by their normal XI in which play actually occurs.

2.8 Professional and Higher Level Players

Any player hired by an Australian club for cricketing services or expertise shall be deemed to be a professional player, and may not concurrently play in this Association without a permit from the Executive Committee. Such a permit must be reapplied for each season. A permit shall also be required each season for any player who during the current or last two seasons has played First-class, International ODI or T20, Premier Firsts or Seconds or their equivalent interstate, VSDCA First XI or VTCA Senior Division First XI.

2.9 Player Transfers Players may change MCA clubs between seasons without a clearance providing they are financial. Players wishing to change MCA clubs during a season, once they have played a match, shall require written permission from the club, or, on appeal, from the Executive Committee.

2.10 Qualifying for Finals (a) No player shall be eligible to play in a semi-final or grand final unless they

have played in MCA matches for at least six days in the home and away season with the competing club. Washouts in the last four weekends of the season only, and matches where a side receives a forfeit, shall count towards finals qualification, provided the side is named on MyCricket by Tuesday after the match.

(b) A player shall be eligible to play in a finals match with an XI if at least half of

their home and away matches were in that XI or a lower XI as defined by rule 2.12.

(c) When consecutive MCA XIs of a club participate in finals on the same

weekend, a player qualified under rule 2.10(b) for one of these XIs may play in the next lower XI instead. A player eligibly participating in a final under this clause will automatically be eligible for that same XI in subsequent finals.

(d) Where a player qualifies for finals in a grade only by counting matches

played as a “restricted player” under 2.15, they may only play finals in that grade as a “restricted player”.

(e) Permits cannot be issued to allow unqualified players to play finals.

2.11 Club Onus to Check Eligibility and Registration of Players The onus is on each club to ensure that players are eligible and correctly registered with the Association. Penalties for breaches of these rules apply. See Appendix 2. The opposing side shall receive the maximum points in that grade in that round, but if this is 6 points, it shall receive only 4 points unless it actually won the match as played. An eligibility breach in a match, other than for playing as a professional or under a false name, must be raised with the Match Secretary by a club in the same grade within two weeks of the completion of the match for a points penalty to apply as defined in the Appendix. A match found to have been played ineligibly shall thenceforth be discounted in qualifying a player for finals, doubling-up or “previous player” rights. A player with an existing MyCricket ID must play under that ID. A player with multiple MyCricket IDs must play under the ID used in their most recent summer season, unless exempted by the Match Secretary.

2.12 Order of a Club's Sides (a) Where a club fields two sides in the same grade, or in Saturday and Sunday

grades at the same level, they must, prior to the season, nominate to the Match Secretary which of the two XIs is higher

(b) Where a club fields Saturday and Sunday sides they may, prior to the season, nominate an order of XIs that does not follow the MCA grade structure. The MCA executive must approve this order prior to the season, otherwise the MCA grade structure will be strictly applied.

(c) The order of XIs will be used to determine players’ eligibility for finals selection as per rule 2.10 and for selection in the last two rounds of the season under the anti-stacking rule 2.4.

2.13 No play in Other Competitions

Where no play occurs in a club’s higher XI in another competition, a permit shall be required for a player to drop down into a club’s MCA XI. The permit shall normally only be granted on the proviso that the player does not return to the higher XI when it next plays.

2.14 D Grade Restrictions

A player may play in D Grade without requiring a permit if they fall into one of these categories: (a) Their last eligible game was in D Grade, and not as a “restricted player”

under 2.15 (b) Their last eligible game was in the next highest MCA grade where the club

has an XI, and not as a “restricted player” under 2.15 (c) Their last game was in another association, below the restricted grades

listed in Appendix 6 (d) They have played no competition cricket in the current season and previous

two seasons (e) They are qualified under rule 2.3(a) to play in D Grade and a higher grade in

the same round

2.15 Restricted Players

Where authorised by earlier clauses of Rule 2, a player who is otherwise ineligible for a grade may be named as a “restricted player” in that grade, provided the grade is C Grade or higher. They must have previously played at least three games for the club. A “restricted player” must “retire out” immediately upon reaching 25, and may only bowl 4 overs. Only two “restricted players” may be used in an XI, and must be nominated at the toss. A player who relies on a game as a “restricted player” to qualify for a match (eg for a final, or as a “previous player” under rule 2.1.c, or to double up in a lower grade under 2.3.a) may only play in the match as a “restricted player”.

RULE 3 MATCH POINTS 3.1 The competition shall be played under the following points system:

Outright win and first innings win 6 points Outright win and first innings tie 4 Outright win and first innings loss 4 Outright tie 3 Outright loss after first innings win 2 Outright loss after first innings tie 0 Outright loss after first innings loss 0 First innings win 4 First innings tie 2 First innings loss 0 Draw or match abandoned without play 2 Bye 2 Forfeit – points as defined by rules 12.5, 12.7 and 13.3 Penalties – points deducted as defined by rules 2.11 and 9.7

3.2 Percentage Calculation If two or more sides are equal on points, their relative positions shall be determined by averages. For the purposes of ascertaining averages, the following system shall be adopted: The batting average for a side shall be obtained by dividing the total number of runs scored by the total number of wickets lost. The bowling average for a side shall be obtained by dividing the total number of runs scored against it by the total number of wickets taken. The former shall be divided by the latter. The side having the highest quotient shall be considered to have the better performance. Where a team plays an ineligible player, match scores shall be annulled for percentage calculation if the quotient of the match scores for the offending side is 1 or greater.

RULE 4 ATTIRE 4.1 Correct Attire

(a) Players and substitutes must be correctly attired in the regulation cricket

whites or creams, shirt, jumper, trousers, socks and footwear, and cricket cap or white hat. Coloured bands on boots and jumpers shall be allowed provided the predominant colour is white. There are to be no coloured bands or panels or trimmings on cricket shirts or trousers. Players under 16 years of age shall be permitted to play in white shorts.

(b) Club and sponsor logos on shirts may be placed on the front or on the

sleeves only, and shall be limited in size to 100 mm x 100 mm. Logos or lettering beyond this size require prior approval from the Executive Committee.

(c) Any Executive Committee member or umpire can report offences. Penalties

for breaches of the dress rules apply. See Appendix 2.

4.2 Helmets The MCA recommends that all players wear a helmet while batting.

RULE 5 AWARDS

Trophies shall be awarded each season as follows: (a) Best batting averages in each grade. Qualification is 250 runs, having batted

in at least 7 home and away innings. (b) Most runs in home and away matches over all grades. (c) Bowling averages in each grade. Qualification is 20 wickets, having bowled

in at least 5 home and away matches. (d) Most wickets in home and away matches over all grades. (e) Best and fairest player in home and away matches in each grade, decided

by umpires’ votes. (f) Player of the match in the grand final in each grade, decided by the

appointed umpires. (g) Best MCA player in representative matches in the season. (h) Awards to umpires, decided by the captains and the Umpires’ Association. (i) A club winning 3 consecutive premierships in a grade shall be presented

with a replica of the premiership shield for permanent retention.

RULE 6 BALLS 6.1 Approved Balls

Only four-piece balls approved by the Executive Committee shall be used. 6.2 New Balls

(a) A new ball must be used in each side's first innings unless the captains

agree otherwise. (b) The captain of the bowling side may elect to use a new ball at the start of the

second innings. (c) A new ball may be used after 80 overs have been bowled.

RULE 7 BOUNDARIES 7.1 Boundary Markings

The home side shall provide at least 16 clearly visible boundary markers. If not marked by a line, the boundary shall be 60 metres from the centre of the pitch, unless this is not practical.

7.2 Batsman Not Out Caught A batsman cannot be dismissed Caught off a boundary marker from an overlapping ground, or off a tree, or off any other previously agreed obstacle within the boundary.

7.3 Boundary Six Six runs shall be awarded if a ball hit into a tree or other obstacle grounded inside or outside the boundary would, in the opinion of the umpire at bowler's end, have carried over the boundary on the full.

7.4 Disallowing Boundaries

A boundary shall not be scored whenever: (a) A fielder touches or leans against a tree inside the boundary with the ball in

hand. (b) A fielder accidentally throws the ball into a tree sited between themselves

and the pitch.

RULE 8 GROUNDS AND WEATHER 8.1 Fitness of Grounds and Pitches

(a) In home and away matches, if wet weather threatens the fitness of pitches,

the Match Secretary may by 8.15am direct representatives of each affected team to inspect their ground at 9.00am and report back by 9.30am. If the two teams in a match agree, play can be abandoned, or the start delayed until at least 2pm. If only one team inspects, the decision shall be theirs. If neither team inspects or there is disagreement, the teams shall be instructed to turn up for the fixtured starting time. Decisions on each match shall be announced on the MCA website by 10am.

(b) In semi-finals, the Executive Committee shall check the fitness of marked

pitches before the scheduled starting time. If rain or lack of preparation makes a start unlikely before tea on day one on any pitch, it may order the use of an old pitch on the same square to facilitate the start of play, or it may give the captains and umpires a selection of pitches from which the first to become fit shall be used.

(c) In the City of Melbourne, the parks curator retains the ultimate right to order

play abandoned.

8.2 Notification of Unprepared Pitch If no pitch has been prepared at a club’s ground, the Match Secretary must be notified by 8:00 AM on the day of the match. Penalties for breaches apply. See Appendix 2.

8.3 Changing a Match Venue A match venue may be changed by the Match Secretary or the Fawkner Park Secretary if another ground is available. Where a pitch has been vandalised, they may direct that a match in progress be transferred to another ground and/or another date for completion.

8.4 Advising Fitness of Grounds and Pitches The MCA website may also advise players and umpires to report to grounds.

8.5 Ground or Pitch Unreasonable at One End If, before play on any day, the umpires agree that the condition of the ground or pitch is unreasonable at one end under Law 3.9, the captains may agree to commence play with bowling from one end only. Umpires and batsmen shall change ends after each over. Bowling shall continue from the one end for the rest of the day.

8.6 Abandoning a Day’s Play In any match, where the umpires arrive at a view that play should be abandoned prior to 6pm, they shall allow either captain the option of delaying abandonment for up to an hour to see if conditions improve.

8.7 Extreme Heat (a) If the Weather Bureau’s Thursday morning Melbourne forecast for a match

day is for a maximum of 39 degrees or more, captains may agree to bring the start of play forward to 10am or 12 noon, ground bookings permitting. The agreement must be notified to the Match Secretary by Thursday 3pm.

(b) If the official Weather Bureau forecast at 7:00 AM on the first day of a match

is for a maximum of 40 degrees or more, the Match Secretary shall reschedule the match via the MCA website by 8:00AM as follows:

(i) A two-day match shall be split into two one-day matches for half

points (ii) Each match that day shall be reduced to 70 overs, 60 overs or T20, as

required to finish before the “apparent temperature” is forecast to reach 40. Matches starting less than three hours before this forecast time shall be abandoned.

(c) On days of extreme heat, umpires shall schedule a check of the temperature

every five overs and at intervals in play, as recorded on the website http://m.bom.gov.au/ for the nearest bureau location. They shall suspend play if the “apparent” (also called “feels-like”) temperature reaches 40 at a scheduled check, until it drops below 40.

(d) Where an hour’s play has been lost for extreme heat, the match shall be

abandoned. Captains may agree at any point to abandon sooner.

8.8 Drinks Intervals in Hot Weather The MCA recommends that drinks be taken more frequently in hot weather, either by extra drinks intervals or by having drinks brought out to players and umpires between overs if required.

RULE 9 COVERS 9.1 Clubs May Cover Pitches

Curators may use covers at their discretion before play. Either club may cover the pitch from dusk on the eve of each day’s play, provided a hessian or carpet underlay is used.

9.2 Clubs Must Cover Pitches when Directed When directed by the Fawkner Park Secretary on the MCA Website News, the home club shall fully cover the pitch by dusk on the eve of a day’s play, except where other arrangements are made by the Executive Committee. At the Fawkner Park Secretary’s discretion, a decision for both Saturday and Sunday may be made on the Saturday.

9.3 Drying Pitches Where play is delayed or interrupted in any game due to wet conditions, either side may use sponges or absorbent material to drain water from any part of the pitch or playing surface. The umpires shall ensure that the pitch is not damaged in this process. Play is not to proceed if the umpires deem the wicket square damp enough that normal play would damage the playing surface in such a way that it could not be used for future weeks.

9.4 Coving Wet Spots on Grounds and Pitches Rubber mats, dried grass clippings, sawdust or sand may be used on wet areas on the ground or pitch, outside ‘the protected area’, only where these are not against local curator and council guidelines. Clubs shall forward these guidelines to the Executive Committee prior to the start of the season.

9.5 Removing Covers before Play The home side shall remove covers at least one hour before play, subject to the weather.

9.6 Umpires Controlling Covers Umpires control the use of covers from 60 minutes before the scheduled starting time until stumps. When directed by the umpires, both sides shall assist with the handling of the covers.

9.7 Penalties for Breaches of Covers Rules Penalties for breaches of these covers rules apply. See Appendix 2. The executive shall be empowered to award first innings points, or outright points, to a team as it deems appropriate where its opponent has disobeyed covers directives.

9.8 Junior Games on Pitches Where a council permits a club to play a junior game on its pitch prior to an MCA game, the club shall be responsible for preventing rain damage to the pitch, e.g. by the juniors attempting to play through showers. Where damage occurs prior to the start of a game, umpires shall award the toss to the opponent if the pitch is still playable. Where this is not appropriate, the club shall be reported and the Executive may award the match to its opponent.

RULE 10 UMPIRES 10.1 No Umpire in Attendance 45 Minutes before the Scheduled Start

If no umpire is in attendance 45 minutes before the scheduled time for play, the captains shall contact the Umpire Appointments Officer 0419 102 740 and assume control and proceed with the match until such time as the appointed umpire is able to take their position. The batting side shall provide the umpires as required. Players acting as umpires shall be deemed to be official umpires while umpiring.

10.2 Umpires Match Report Umpires shall submit a match report to MyCricket by the Tuesday after the match, on the form provided.

10.3 Attire of Player Umpires Player umpires shall wear non-white trousers or shorts or a coloured top, and shall not carry bats or stumps.

10.4 Umpires Fees Umpires fees shall be as decided by the Executive Committee. Umpires shall be entitled to full fees once ‘play’ has been called, or whenever they are required to remain at the ground until 3:20 PM to adjudicate on the playing conditions. If play has been abandoned without a ball being bowled before 3:20 PM, then they shall be entitled to $50 each. Where the actions of the home side lead to play being abandoned, that side shall be required to pay both umpires their entitled fees. Umpires shall normally be paid at the Tea break, or at the close of play if play finishes earlier. A club leaving the ground without paying the umpire shall be fined $50 in addition to being billed for the umpire fee.

10.5 Penalty Runs Penalty runs can only be imposed by an official umpire, except for a ball striking a helmet left behind the wicket-keeper, discarded fielder clothing, etc. Where no official umpire is in attendance, these are the only penalty runs that can be imposed.

RULE 11 SCORES AND MATCH DETAILS 11.1 Scorebooks

Each club shall keep its own scorebook containing details of the batting and bowling analysis of each side. Scorers and umpires shall agree on the score at regular intervals, and on the final score. Captains or their representatives shall check the scorebooks at the end of each innings. Failure to do so shall mean acceptance of the score. Where scores disagree between batting/bowling/ progressive tally, the bowling shall be used unless the umpires determine otherwise.

11.2 Scoreboards The home side shall provide a scoreboard at each match, showing the runs, wickets, overs and target scores as required. The batting side shall maintain the scoreboard and update it every 2 overs or more frequently.

11.3 Disputed Scores or Results

The result of the match shall be confirmed on the umpires’ match report. In the event of a dispute in the scores or the result, the scorebooks shall be impounded by the umpires or the home secretary if no umpire has been appointed, who shall forward them to the Match Secretary by the Tuesday following the completion of the match. The Executive shall determine a disputed result. Its decision shall be final.

11.4 If No Umpire is Appointed If no umpire has been appointed, captains shall sign each other’s scorebook at the completion of the match, and shall agree on best and fairest votes and team award votes for the match, to be submitted by the home captain to the Secretary by the Tuesday after the match.

11.5 Telephoning Scores The home side in each match shall telephone the scores for each day’s play to the Match Secretary by the appointed time. SMS to 0410 938 191 before 7:15 pm.

11.6 Submission of Match Details The secretary of each side shall submit the… (a) Team lists (b) Match results (c) Player scores (d) Captain’s report – umpire assessment – ground assessment …for each match, other than a complete round abandoned on the Association’s Website News, to MyCricket by the Tuesday after the completion of the match. Submission of team lists is optional for matches in which no play occurs.

11.7 Submitting Player Registrations The secretary of each side shall submit registration details of new players to MyCricket by the Tuesday after the player’s first match, including name, date of birth, and postcode.

11.8 Penalties for Non Submission Penalties for breaches of these match submission rules apply. See Appendix 2.

RULE 12 FORFEITS 12.1 Minimum Number of Players to Field a Team

Play shall not commence if a side has less than 5 players present.

12.2 Forfeiting the Toss Should a side not be prepared to toss by the appointed time, the toss shall be awarded to the other side.

12.3 Forfeit for Late Start (a) If play does not commence within 15 minutes of the determined starting time,

the match shall be conceded by the club that is unable to or refuses to proceed, upon claim being made by the opposing club.

(b) If both captains agree to allow extra time beyond 15 minutes past the

scheduled starting time, then play shall commence at the agreed time. The total time lost due to such a late start shall be added to the hours of play.

12.4 Clubs Must Forfeit in the Lowest Grade

A club must forfeit in its lowest grade, or all its lower sides will be deemed to have forfeited also.

12.5 Alternative to Forfeit

(a) Prior to the last two rounds, a club unable to field a side on one day of a two-day match may elect to reduce the match to a one-day game, subject to the following conditions: (i) The club shall pay all fees for umpires in attendance on either day,

and shall receive only half-points, and (ii) Its opponent shall have the choice of a 110-over game or a 90-over

game, and shall receive maximum points in the grade for the round if it wins, 3 points if it ties or draws, and 2 points if it loses.

(b) In the last two rounds, such reduction to a one-day match may only take

place with the consent of its opponent and the Executive Committee. 12.6 Match Points for a Forfeit

A team receiving a forfeit shall receive the maximum points in that grade in that round. However, if this is 6 points, it shall only receive 4 points if play occurred in the forfeited match and it lost or tied the first innings. A team conceding a forfeit shall lose 1 point.

RULE 13 VARYING THE FIXTURE 13.1 The Executive Committee may vary the fixture to accommodate exceptional

circumstances by (a) Rescheduling the starting time of a match. (b) Scheduling a 64-over and a 70-over one-day match to be played

consecutively on a pitch on the same day. (c) Splitting some or all of the two-day fixtures of a nominated 'one-day team',

which is placed in a two-day grade, into two one-day matches.

13.2 The two competing clubs may agree to vary the fixture, provided the Match Secretary and the Appointments Officer are advised before 3:00 PM on the Friday, by (a) Rescheduling the starting time of a match. (b) Playing a 110 over match, commencing at either 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM, if

there is no play on day one of a two-day match. (c) Splitting a two-day match into two one-day matches. (d) Splittingaone-daymatchintotwoT20matches. (e) Reducing a one-day match to a T20 match.

13.3 For matches split under 13.2(c) or (d), half the normal points in rule 3.1 shall be awarded for each match. A team winning on forfeit shall receive 2 points; if it also wins the other match or is awarded it on forfeit it shall receive maximum points in the grade for the round.

RULE 14 ONE-DAY MATCHES 14.1 Overs

(a) Matches shall be scheduled for 90 overs, commencing at 12:30 PM, unless

fixtured otherwise by the Executive Committee. (b) Each side is entitled to receive half the scheduled or rescheduled overs in its

innings. (c) If the side batting first is dismissed or declares before half the scheduled or

rescheduled overs have been bowled, the over in progress is regarded as complete.

14.2 Reducing the scheduled overs before play has commenced

(a) Any delay in the commencement of a match will cause the scheduled overs for that match to be rescheduled by reducing them at a rate of 2 overs for every complete 8 minutes lost from the scheduled starting time (refer to Table #1 below).

(b) The rescheduled overs for the match cannot be less than 60. Exception:

Rule 14.4 below. (c) Each side is entitled to half of the rescheduled overs before compulsory

closure of its innings. Table #1 – REDUCTION OF SCHEDULED OVERS IN ONE-DAY MATCHES PRIOR TO PLAY COMMENCING Minutes lost before match commences

Reduction in scheduled match overs

Overs entitlement for each side

0 - 7 0 45 8 - 15 2 44

16 - 23 4 43 24 - 31 6 42 32 - 39 8 41 40 - 47 10 40 48 - 55 12 39 56 - 63 14 38 64 - 71 16 37 72 - 79 18 36 80 - 87 20 35 88 - 95 22 34

96 - 103 24 33 104 - 111 26 32 112 - 119 28 31 120 - 127 30 30

Maximum reduction in a 90-over match

14.3 Reducing the total match overs after play has commenced (a) After a match commences there will be no further reduction in either side’s

overs entitlement as determined from Table #1 above. However, the total match overs may be reduced or further reduced, as set out below.

(b) All time lost for interruptions due to unfit ground, weather, light or exceptional

circumstances after the match has commenced shall be accumulated. (c) After the match has commenced, the first 30 minutes of accumulated

interruptions to play will not reduce or further reduce the total match overs. (d) After the match has commenced, time lost in excess of this 30 minutes due

to unfit ground, weather, light or exceptional circumstances will result in the total match overs being reduced or further reduced by one over for each complete four minutes (refer to Table #2 below).

Table #2 – REDUCTION OF SCHEDULED OVERS IN ONE-DAY MATCHES AFTER THE MATCH COMMENCES

Accumulated minutes lost after

match commences

Overs lost from total

match overs

Accumulated minutes lost after

match commences

Overs lost from total

match overs

0 - 33 0 86 - 89 14 34 - 37 1 90 - 93 15 38 - 41 2 94 - 97 16 42 - 45 3 98 - 101 17 46 - 49 4 102 - 105 18 50 - 53 5 106 - 109 19 54 - 57 6 110 - 113 20 58 - 61 7 114 - 117 21 62 - 65 8 118 - 121 22 66 - 69 9 122 - 125 23 70 - 73 10 126 - 129 24 74 - 77 11 130 - 133 25 78 - 81 12 134 - 137 26 82 - 85 13 138 - 141 27

14.4 Abandoning play due to unfit ground, weather or exceptional circumstances

If play does not commence within 150 minutes of the scheduled start time then play shall be abandoned for the day.

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14.5 Intervals (a) A tea interval of 25 minutes shall be taken after half the scheduled or

rescheduled overs have been bowled or the team batting first is dismissed or declares.

(b) If both captains agree the time for the tea interval can be reduced by up to

15 minutes.

14.7 Bowling restrictions (a) A limit of 9 overs shall apply to each bowler during any innings regardless of

over reductions in the match. (b) If a bowler exceeds the over limit then the additional balls shall stand and the

bowler shall be replaced immediately. (c) A part of an over bowled in this case or under Law 22.8 shall count as one

full over of the limit of each bowler concerned in that over. (d) A delivery passing to the leg side of the batsman without touching their bat

or person shall be called a “wide” if in the umpire’s view, it was wide of the leg stump by more than one-quarter of the distance to the return crease (i.e. 30.5cm/1 foot)

(e) A bowler will be removed from the bowling attack after two high full-toss no-

balls that are deemed dangerous by the umpire at the bowler’s end, or one that is deemed intentional.

14.8 Result

(a) The winner shall be the side scoring the greater number of runs in its

innings, irrespective of the number of wickets lost, except when the total match overs have been reduced or further reduced under Rule 14.3 (d) because of accumulated interruptions after play has commenced.

(b) When the total match overs have been reduced or further reduced under

Rule 14.3 (d) because of accumulated interruptions after play has commenced, then if the side batting second does not receive its overs entitlement (as determined before the match commenced) the match is drawn unless a first innings result was achieved by the time the total match overs were bowled.

(c) Where a first innings result is achieved before the scheduled overs are

completed, either side may elect to play on for the remaining overs. An outright result is permissible in a one-day game.

(d) An outright result is only possible if achieved within the amount of scheduled

or re-scheduled overs available for the match.

14.9 Ending a match (a) Captains may agree to end a match at any time once a first innings result

has been achieved. (b) When 15 or less scheduled overs remain in the match and a first innings

result has been achieved, the captain of the side that has lost on first innings may elect to end the match at any time when the ball is dead if their side has not yet commenced its second innings.

(c) Where they consider no result is achievable, the two captains and the umpires can agree to end the match at any time.

RULE 15 TWO-DAY MATCHES 15.1 Overs

(a) Play each day shall be from 1:00 PM until 75 overs have been bowled. (b) Overs required in a day shall not be reduced for change of innings.

15.2 Intervals (a) Tea shall be a 25-minute interval taken at 3.20pm for a 75-over day starting at

1:00 PM. (b) The umpires may reduce the tea interval to 20 minutes if they deem it

necessary to make up for a slow over rate or loss of play due to unfit ground weather, light or extraordinary circumstances.

(c) Drinks intervals shall be taken as agreed at the toss and as required in

extreme heat. (d) When the start is delayed, or brought forward, by more than 20 minutes, tea

shall be rescheduled by the umpires to a time calculated to allow half the required overs for the day to be bowled at 4 minutes per over. If a delayed start means that 55 overs or less are to be bowled when play commences, the tea interval shall be dispensed with.

15.3 Reducing overs due to unfit ground, weather, light or extraordinary

circumstances.

(a) If more than 60 minutes play is lost due to unfit ground weather, light or extraordinary circumstances, the overs to be bowled for the day shall be reduced by one for each 4 full additional minutes lost. Refer to Table #3 below.

Table #3 – REDUCTION OF OVERS IN TWO-DAY MATCHES Mins of play lost to unfit ground, weather, light or exceptional circumstances since scheduled start time O

vers

lost

Mins of play lost to unfit ground, weather, light or exceptional circumstances since scheduled start time O

vers

lost

Mins of play lost to unfit ground, weather, light or exceptional circumstances since scheduled start time O

vers

lost

0 to 63 0 64 to 67 1 164 to 167 26 264 to 267 51 68 to 71 2 168 to 171 27 268 to 271 52 72 to 75 3 172 to 175 28 272 to 275 53 76 to 79 4 176 to 179 29 276 to 279 54 80 to 83 5 180 to 183 30 280 to 283 55 84 to 87 6 184 to 187 31 284 to 287 56 88 to 91 7 188 to 191 32 288 to 291 57 92 to 95 8 192 to 195 33 292 to 295 58 96 to 99 9 196 to 199 34 296 to 299 59

100 to 103 10 200 to 203 35 300 to 303 60 104 to 107 11 204 to 207 36 304 to 307 61 108 to 111 12 208 to 211 37 308 to 311 62 112 to 115 13 212 to 215 38 312 to 315 63 116 to 119 14 216 to 219 39 316 to 319 64 120 to 123 15 220 to 223 40 320 to 323 65 124 to 127 16 224 to 227 41 324 to 327 66 128 to 131 17 228 to 231 42 328 to 331 67 132 to 135 18 232 to 235 43 332 to 335 68 136 to 139 19 236 to 239 44 336 to 339 69 140 to 143 20 240 to 243 45 340 to 343 70 144 to 147 21 244 to 247 46 344 to 347 71 148 to 151 22 248 to 251 47 348 to 351 72 152 to 155 23 252 to 255 48 352 to 355 73 156 to 159 24 256 to 259 49 356 to 359 74 160 to 163 25 260 to 263 50 360 to 363 75

15.4 Variation to scheduled start on day 2 if there is less than 75 overs play on

day one (a) If there is less than 75 overs play on day one, up to 15 overs shall be added

to day two to make up the deficit (plus any unfinished over to be completed). The start of day two shall be brought forward by four minutes for each added over. Refer to Table #4 below.

(b) Where no play is possible on day one, the match shall become a one-day match on day two.

Table #4 – SCHEDULED START TIME ON DAY 2 IF OVERS LOST ON DAY 1 Overs added

Scheduled start time

Overs added

Scheduled start time

Overs added

Scheduled start time

1 12:56pm 6 12:36pm 11 12:16pm 2 12:52pm 7 12: 32pm 12 12:12pm 3 12:48pm 8 12:28pm 13 12:08pm 4 12:44pm 9 12:24pm 14 12:04pm 5 12:40pm 10 12:20pm 15 12:00pm

15.5 Ending the day’s play

(a) If play is suspended at or after 7:00 PM due to unfit ground weather, light or

extraordinary circumstances, stumps shall be drawn. (b) An incomplete over at the end of an innings shall count as completed. The

last over in each day shall be completed unless 15.5 (a) applies.

15.6 Compulsory closure (a) If the first innings of the side batting first is not completed when 75 overs

have been bowled in the match, it shall be closed. (b) If the first innings of the side batting second is not completed when 150

overs have been bowled in the match, it shall be closed. (c) If more than 15 overs are lost on day one, the innings of the team batting

first shall be closed when half the overs possible in the game as at stumps day 1 have been bowled. The innings of the side batting second shall be closed when all the overs possible have been bowled. An extra over shall be added to the 90 on day two if needed to ensure an even number of overs in the match. (Example: 25 overs bowled day one, then day two shall play 91 overs to ensure 116 overs in the match, with closure after 58 overs for the side batting first and after the 116th over for the side batting second.

15.7 Ending the match

(a) Provided a first inning result has been achieved, captains may agree to end a match at any time from tea onwards on day two.

(b) When 15 or less scheduled overs remain in the match and a first innings result has been achieved, the captain of the side that has lost on first innings may elect to end the match at any time when the ball is dead if their side has not yet commenced its second innings.

15.8 Result If loss of play on the second day prevents the full overs from being bowled for that day, and the side batting second is behind or level and its first innings has not been completed, the match is drawn. Otherwise, the winner is the side which scores the greater number of runs in the first innings, regardless of the number of wickets lost, except where an outright result is achieved.

RULE 16 TWENTY20 16.1 Hours of Play

(a) The hours of play shall be determined by the Executive Committee after

fixtures have been completed. (b) A designated cessation time will apply if more than 60 minutes are lost due

to a delayed start, or unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances after the match has commenced, to be determined by the Executive Committee after fixtures have been completed.

(c) A tea interval of 20 minutes shall be taken after the completion of the first

innings. (d) The match shall end when a first innings result has been achieved.

16.2 Result (a) The winner shall be the side scoring the greatest number of runs in the first

innings, irrespective of the number of wickets lost. (b) Each match shall be played for half the normal match points in rule 3.

16.3 Overs (a) The match shall consist of one innings per side with each innings being

limited to a maximum of 20 overs. (b) A maximum of 4 overs per bowler in an innings. (c) Overs shall be bowled in blocks of 5 overs alternating between ends.

Batsmen and umpires shall change ends after each over except after every fifth over. Fieldsmen shall change ends after every fifth over.

16.4 Timed Out

Incoming batsmen have 90 seconds after the fall of a wicket to be at the crease and ready to face the next delivery.

16.5 Free Hit after Foot No Ball (a) The delivery following a foot No ball under Law 24.5 shall be a free hit for

whichever batsman is facing it. If the delivery for the free hit is a No ball or a Wide, then the next delivery will become a free hit for whichever batsman is facing it.

(b) For any free hit, the striker can be only be dismissed Handled the ball, Hit

the ball twice, Obstructing the field or Run out, even if the free hit delivery is a Wide.

(c) Field changes will only be permitted for free hit deliveries if a different

batsman is on strike for the free hit delivery.

16.6 Fielding Restrictions (a) Two 27.5-metre fielding semi-circles shall have their centre as the middle

stump at either end of the pitch. These two semi-circles shall be linked by two parallel straight lines. If these fielding restriction circles are not marked then the umpires will judge the distances.

(b) A required number of fieldsmen must be inside the circle before the bowler

enters the delivery stride otherwise either umpire shall call and signal No ball (i) A maximum 2 fieldsmen are permitted outside the circle in first 6 overs (ii) A maximum 5 fieldsmen are permitted outside circle in next 14 overs

(c) A maximum 5 fieldsmen are permitted on the leg side, otherwise either umpire shall call and signal No Ball.

RULE 17 FINALS 17.1 Determining Finalists and Grounds

The top four teams in each grade shall compete in the finals. A club shall owe no money to the Association 48 hours before the semi-final, or shall be disregarded in calculating the four. The first team shall play the fourth, and the second team shall play the third. The Executive Committee shall select grounds for finals, giving consideration to availability, quality, ladder positions and cost. The Executive Committee shall also nominate the ‘home’ side.

17.2 Duration of Finals Semi finals shall play two days and grand finals shall play three days.

17.3 Reserve Day in Grand Finals

(a) If more than 180 minutes are lost to weather or bad light over the first two

days of a grand final, play may continue on a fourth day for a maximum of the total overs lost on the first three days, or 100 overs, whichever is less. For each day of the first three days, the calculation of the overs lost is based on:

One over for every full 4 minutes lost in excess of 30 minutes, or Overs missed out on the last hour over requirements, or Overs missed out on the 100 scheduled overs, whichever is greatest (b) If time is lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances on

a reserve day, the scheduled overs shall not be reduced until any available time has first been recouped. Available time equals 360 minutes minus four minutes for each scheduled over.

17.4 Match Conditions

Ordinary Conditions (no restriction on the length of innings, and the side batting second has to be dismissed to lose) apply.

17.5 Hours of Play (a) Hours of play shall be 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day, with the cessation

time subject to the required overs being bowled. (b) A lunch interval of 30 minutes shall be taken at 1:00 PM, and a tea interval of

30 minutes shall be taken at 3:30 PM. Lunch or Tea will be delayed by up to half an hour if nine wickets are down, and will be taken immediately if during that time the innings is completed or players have cause to leave the field.

(c) The cessation time shall be advanced by up to 30 minutes to recoup time

lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances before 6:30 PM. The commencement of the last hour shall be advanced by up to 30 minutes to recoup time lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances before 6:00 PM.

(d) If unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances interrupts play

after 6:30 PM, play shall not be resumed. (e) On days when daylight saving is not in force, all times shall be brought

forward by 30 minutes. (f) Captains may agree to end the match once a result has been achieved, or

they may agree to extend play on any day, other than the last day, if they agree that a result is imminent.

17.6 Overs

(a) At least 100 overs shall be bowled on each day, with at least 15 overs in the

last hour. (b) The required overs in a day shall be reduced if more than 30 minutes are

lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances between 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM, by one over for each complete 4 minutes lost in excess of 30 minutes, according to the table below. The overs in the last hour shall also be reduced, by one over for each complete 4 minutes lost in the last hour, after all available time has been recouped.

(c) Overs shall not be reduced for change of innings. (d) An incomplete over at the end of a completed innings counts as completed.

REDUCTION OF OVERS IN FINALS Mins lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances since scheduled start time O

vers

lost

Mins lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances since scheduled start time O

vers

lost

Mins lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances since scheduled start time O

vers

lost

0 to 33 0 166 to 169 34 302 to 305 68 34 to 37 1 170 to 173 35 306 to 309 69 38 to 41 2 174 to 177 36 310 to 313 70 42 to 45 3 178 to 181 37 314 to 317 71 46 to 49 4 182 to 185 38 318 to 321 72 50 to 53 5 186 to 189 39 322 to 325 73 54 to 57 6 190 to 193 40 326 to 329 74 58 to 61 7 194 to 197 41 330 to 333 75 62 to 65 8 198 to 201 42 334 to 337 76 66 to 69 9 202 to 205 43 338 to 341 77 70 to 73 10 206 to 209 44 342 to 345 78 74 to 77 11 210 to 213 45 346 to 349 79 78 to 81 12 214 to 217 46 350 to 353 80 82 to 85 13 218 to 221 47 354 to 357 81 86 to 89 14 222 to 225 48 358 to 361 82 90 to 93 15 226 to 229 49 362 to 365 83 94 to 97 16 230 to 233 50 366 to 369 84 98 to 101 17 234 to 237 51 370 to 373 85

102 to 105 18 238 to 241 52 374 to 377 86 106 to 109 19 242 to 245 53 378 to 381 87 110 to 113 20 246 to 249 54 382 to 385 88 114 to 117 21 250 to 253 55 386 to 389 89 118 to 121 22 254 to 257 56 390 to 393 90 122 to 125 23 258 to 261 57 394 to 397 91 126 to 129 24 262 to 265 58 398 to 401 92 130 to 133 25 266 to 269 59 402 to 405 93 134 to 137 26 270 to 273 60 406 to 409 94 138 to 141 27 274 to 277 61 410 to 413 95 142 to 145 28 278 to 281 62 414 to 417 96 146 to 149 29 282 to 285 63 418 to 421 97 150 to 153 30 286 to 289 64 422 to 425 98 154 to 157 31 290 to 293 65 426 to 429 99 158 to 161 32 294 to 297 66 430 or more 100 162 to 165 33 298 to 301 67

REDUCTION OF OVERS IN LAST HOUR (AFTER ALL AVAILABLE TIME RECOUPED)

Mins of play lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances since all available time has been recouped O

vers

redu

ced

redu

ced

Mins of play lost to unfit ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances since all available time has been recouped O

vers

redu

ced Mins of play lost to unfit

ground, weather, light, or exceptional circumstances since all available time has been recouped O

vers

redu

ced

1 to 4 1 21 to 24 6 41 to 44 11 2 to 8 2 25 to 28 7 45 to 48 12 9 to 12 3 29 to 32 8 49 to 52 13

13 to 16 4 33 to 36 9 53 to 56 14 17 to 20 5 37 to 40 10 57 to 60 15

17.7 Religious Variations to Finals Playing Conditions

If the Secretary receives a request from a club before the completion of round 12, the Executive Committee may consider permitting that club to play a one-day semi-final, or a two-day grand final, on Saturdays or Sundays only, for religious reasons, under the following rule: (a) A semi-final involving the side making the request shall be played on one

Saturday or Sunday, of 120 overs, with playing times, intervals, and other matters to be determined by the Executive Committee.

(b) If that side is the higher side in the semi-final, the game shall be played

under the MCA one-day rules, but with compulsory closure after the first 60 overs and no over limit per bowler. That side must win or tie to proceed. If the match is drawn, that side’s opponent shall proceed.

(c) If the side making the application is the lower side in the semi-final, there will

be no compulsory closure and that side must win to proceed. (d) A grand final involving that side shall be played over two Saturdays or

Sundays, under rules 17.4, 17.5, and 17.6 above. If the match is drawn, that side’s opponent shall be the premier.

17.8 Result

The semi final winners shall play off in the grand final. If an outright result is not achieved in a semi final or a grand final, the result shall be decided on the first innings. If a semi final or grand final is drawn, or if a semi final is tied, the winner shall be decided on the ladder positions after the home and away matches. A tied grand final shall result in the premiership being shared.

17.9 A Club Unable to Field a Side in a Final Where a club is unable to field a side in any final, the highest placed side that can do so shall replace it. Such a replacement side shall be regarded as the lowest placed side in the case of a draw.

RULE 18 ONE-DAY GRADE FINALS

In a One-Day Grade, the provisions of Rule 17 shall be varied as follows.

18.1 Format and Duration Semi-finals and grand finals shall be one one-day match. A reserve day for the grand final will be available if needed in case of a tied or drawn match. In any one-day grade, the Page System shall be used (semi-finals 1v2 and 3v4 with a preliminary final) PROVIDED that a grand final reserve day can be scheduled in March prior to Easter. If not, semi-finals 1v4 and 2v3 shall be used with no preliminary final, as in two-day grades.

18.2 Hours of Play

(a) Matches shall be 90 overs commencing at 11:00 AM. (b) A tea interval of 30 minutes shall be taken after the completion of the first

innings. (c) If the scheduled overs are reduced, play may continue until 6:30 PM. The

over in progress at 6:30 PM shall be completed. If the first innings of the side batting second is not completed and it is behind or level, the match is drawn.

(d) Captains may agree to end the match once a result has been achieved.

18.3 Result

(a) The winner shall be the side scoring the greatest number of runs in the first

innings, irrespective of the number of wickets lost, except when rule 18.2(c) applies or when a further result has been achieved.

(b) The semi-final winners shall play off in the grand final. If a semi-final is

drawn or tied, the winner shall be decided on the ladder positions after the home and away matches. If a grand final series is tied, the premiership shall be shared.

18.4 Overs (a) Each side is entitled to receive half the overs in its first innings. If the innings

of the side batting first is completed before half the overs have been bowled, the over in progress is regarded as complete.

(b) If weather or bad light delays the start, the scheduled overs shall be reduced

by 2 for each complete 8 minutes lost in excess of 60 minutes, provided that the match shall not be reduced below 70 overs. There are no further over reductions for time lost once the match commences. (See table following).

18.5 Over Restrictions for Bowlers

A limit of 9 overs shall apply to each bowler during the first 45 overs of each first innings. If a bowler exceeds the over limit then the additional balls shall stand and the bowler shall be replaced immediately. A part of an over bowled in this case or under Law 22.8 shall count as one full over on the limit of each bowler concerned in that over.

REDUCTION OF OVERS IN ONE-DAY FINALS Minutes lost before match commences

Overs reduced from scheduled match overs

CC overs

0 - 67 0 45 68 - 75 2 44 76 - 83 4 43 84 - 91 6 42 92 - 99 8 41

100 - 107 10 40 108 - 115 12 39 116 - 123 14 38 124 - 131 16 37 132 - 139 18 36 140 - 147 20 35

148 + 20 35

RULE 19 CONDUCT 19.1 Spirit of Cricket and Code of Conduct to Apply

The Mercantile Cricket Association is primarily interested in playing its matches within the spirit and traditions of the game. To play within the ‘spirit of the game’, the Association relies on the Club Officials, Captains and Players recognising the responsibilities of their positions in the game, and on the Umpires to perform their duties professionally. The specific areas of concern and those unacceptable in the MCA are in the Code of Conduct.

19.2 Responsibilities

(a) Clubs are responsible for the conduct of officials and supporters at MCA

matches. (b) Captains are responsible at all times for ensuring that play is conducted

within the Spirit of the Game as well as within the Laws. The umpires may intervene at any time and it is the responsibility of the captain to take action when required.

(c) Umpires are responsible for applying the Laws and Rules as required in a

professional and courteous manner. 19.3 Reportable Offences

Breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Preamble to the Laws of Cricket (The Spirit of Cricket), Law 1.4 (Responsibility of captains), Law 42.1 (Fair and unfair play – responsibility of captains), or Law 42.18 (Players' conduct), by players or club officials in MCA matches, will be reported to the MCA.

19.4 Reporting Officials

Umpires, and Executive Committee members in matches in which they are not playing, may report any misconduct by players or clubs to the Executive Committee.

19.5 Notifying a Player and Club at the Ground

Umpires shall name the player and the club and state the nature of the misconduct on the match report form, before the captains sign the form at the end of the match.

19.6 Captains to Attend Umpires to Sign Match Report Form

The Captains shall attend and wait on the Umpires at the end of each match, to lodge notice of any match dispute or to be notified of any misconduct reports or administration penalties, and shall sign the umpires match report form.

19.7 No Person Available for Notification of Report Where a Captain or representative or official of a Club does not attend as required, an umpire shall be deemed to have fulfilled their responsibility with the submission of the report under these rules.

19.8 Submission of Conduct Report

Reporting umpires or Executive Committee members shall submit a detailed written report of the misconduct to the Secretary within 48 hours of the end of the match.

19.9 Secretary to Review Conduct Reports

The Secretary shall maintain a conduct record, and shall review all conduct reports submitted after MCA matches. The Secretary shall name the players and captains and clubs on the conduct record, and may take further action as required, including the laying of charges against players or captains or clubs, the application of prescribed penalties, and the convening and empanelling of tribunals as required.

19.10 Notification of Report

The Secretary shall provide written notice of any misconduct reports and charges, to the secretary of the club concerned, by the Tuesday after the completion of the match.

19.11 Tribunals

(a) The Secretary shall convene a tribunal at the earliest suitable time after the

completion of the match from which the conduct report arises. (b) Tribunals convened under these rules are empowered to deal with reports of

misconduct by MCA players and captains and club officials, to hear evidence, make rulings and impose penalties in proven cases.

(c) The tribunal normally consists of a chairman, and two other members who

have a substantial background in MCA cricket. Members of the clubs participating in a match from which a report arises shall not be eligible to sit on the tribunal.

19.12 Penalties

Penalties imposed by the MCA may include, but are not limited to, prescribed penalties, loss of match points, suspension of captains or players, suspended sentences, reprimands and financial penalties.

19.13 Accepting a Prescribed Penalty

If a player is charged under these rules and intends to plead ‘guilty’, the player may accept a pre-determined penalty without a tribunal hearing taking place.

19.14 Attending the Tribunal (a) The reported player and the captain and the club and the reporting umpire

shall be notified of the time and place of the tribunal, and shall attend and give evidence as required. Other persons may give evidence as deemed necessary or warranted by the Secretary or the tribunal chairman.

(b) In the absence of the reported player, with or without notice of reason for

absence, the tribunal chairman may proceed with or adjourn or postpone a tribunal to another date.

19.15 Tribunal Procedure

(a) Introduction of those present and opening address by the Chairman. (b) Reading of the charges. (c) The Chairman requests a plea from the reported player or club. (d) Evidence and submissions, which may be in writing from:

(i) The umpires (ii) The reported player (iii) The reported player’s captain (iv) Any other person called to give evidence

(e) Any member present may question those giving evidence. (f) The tribunal deliberates on the verdict in private. (g) Announcement of the verdict.

If ‘not guilty’, the hearing is concluded. If ‘guilty’, the chairman asks if any person has anything further to add in relation to the penalty.

(h) If yes, the additional information/pleas/character evidence is heard. (i) The tribunal consults tribunal records for any prior history and deliberates on

the penalty in private. (j) The chairman advises the player of the penalty imposed, with the reasons

for reaching the decision, and indicates to the player exactly when the penalty expires.

(k) The Secretary advises the club in writing of the penalty imposed, and the

expiry date, if any, and the MCA tribunal and conduct records are updated.

RULE 20 APPEALS 20.1 Submission of Appeal

Appeals against administration or misconduct penalties imposed under these rules must made be in writing to the Secretary, by the secretary of the club concerned or their deputy, within 48 hours after receiving the original penalty.

20.2 Suspension of Penalties Until Appeal is Heard

Appeals by players and clubs made under these rules shall be heard before any penalties imposed are applied.

20.3 Appeals Tribunals Appeals Tribunals convened under these rules are empowered to hear evidence and deliver verdicts and vary or impose penalties on players or clubs.

20.4 Appeals Tribunal Procedure

(a) Introduction of those present and opening address by the Chairman. (b) Reading of the appeal (c) Evidence and submissions, which may be in writing from:

(i) The MCA (ii) The umpires (iii) The player or club (iv) Any other person called to give evidence

(d) Any member present may question those giving evidence. (e) The appeals tribunal deliberates on the verdict in private. (f) Announcement of the verdict.

(i) If the appeal is dismissed, the hearing is concluded. (ii) If the appeal is upheld, the chairman advises the player and/or the

club of any changes to the penalty originally imposed, with the reasons for reaching the decision, and indicates to the player and/or the club exactly when the penalty expires.

(g) The Chairman provides a written report to the Secretary. (h) The Secretary updates the tribunal and conduct records, and advises the

club secretary of the any changes to the penalty originally imposed and when the penalty expires, and reports to the Executive Committee.

RULE 21 DISPUTES AND MEDIATION 21.1 The grievance procedure set out in this rule applies to disputes under these rules

between: (a) A member and another member; or (b) A member and the Association.

21.2 The parties to the dispute must meet and discuss the matter in dispute, and, if

possible, resolve the dispute within 14 days after the dispute comes to the attention of all of the parties.

21.3 If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute at the meeting, or if a party fails to

attend that meeting, then the parties must, within 10 days, hold a meeting in the presence of a mediator.

21.4 The mediator must be:

(a) A person chosen by agreement between the parties; or (b) In the absence of agreement:

(i) In the case of a dispute between a member and another member, a

person appointed by the Executive Committee of the Association; or (ii) In the case of a dispute between a member and the Association, a

person who is a mediator appointed or employed by the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (Department of Justice).

21.5 A member of the Association can be a mediator. 21.6 The mediator cannot be a member who is a party to the dispute. 21.7 The parties to the dispute must, in good faith, attempt to settle the dispute by

mediation. 21.8 The mediator, in conducting the mediation, must:

(a) Give the parties to the mediation process every opportunity to be heard; and (b) Allow due consideration by all parties of any written statement submitted by

any party; and (c) Ensure that natural justice is accorded to the parties to the dispute

throughout the mediation process. 21.9 The mediator must not determine the dispute. 21.10 If the mediation process does not result in the dispute being resolved, the parties

may seek to resolve the dispute in accordance with the Act or otherwise at law.

Appendix 1 CODE OF CONDUCT At all times the Mercantile Vibe is to be fostered, enhanced and protected by all members of the MCA. The Mercantile Cricket Association is primarily interested in playing its matches within the spirit and traditions of the game. To play within the ‘spirit of the game’, the Association relies on Club officials and Captains to recognise the responsibilities of their positions, on Players to accept the umpire’s decisions, and on Umpires to perform their duties professionally. Players who breach any area of the code need to be aware, as does their Club and Captain, that umpires are obliged and instructed to take action. Where any of the below occur before, during or after a game the umpire has the following ways to ensure play occurs smoothly: A. A reminder to Captains or players of what is expected B. A warning that poor behaviour will not be tolerated. This will be noted as a

Mention in Match reports C. A Report that will be referred to the MCA EC and potential Tribunal. This will

be noted as a Report in Match reports. The specific but not limited to, behaviour areas of concern and those unacceptable in and to the MCA are: 1. Captains failing to control their players – Captains are responsible at all

times under the Laws of Cricket for the behaviour of their players, and are obligated to ensure that the scenarios below are kept out of our game. If misbehaviour does occur, it is the responsibility of the captains to take swift action to control the players. Umpires may advise Captains to control players via a reminder or a warning. Vice Captains and wicket keepers play an important role in enhancing the MCA Vibe and should support captains accordingly.

2. The generation of an unpleasant atmosphere – when allowed to develop

over an extended period, usually as an attempt to intimidate the umpire or opposition players, or as an ongoing expression of dissatisfaction with the state of the match.

3. Racial and religious slurs – derogatory comments or slurs about a player's

race or religion have no place at a cricket match and offenders will be liable for serious penalties.

4. Questioning or disputing an umpire’s decision or failing to follow the

umpire’s instructions – This is often in an aggressive or sarcastic or argumentative or prolonged manner. This applies equally to dismissals and unsuccessful appeals, and to the judgement of no balls and wides, byes and leg byes, ground and weather and light rulings, the use of covers etc. Members of the batting side acting as umpires, at either end, are official umpires and should be treated accordingly.

5. The use of offensive language – generally as a disparaging remark to an opposition player, or to an umpire, or to a member of the public, or even as a loud expression of frustration or self-admonishment.

6. An excessive number of frivolous and ridiculous appeals – primarily

aimed at pressuring and intimidating the umpire into a favourable decision. 7. The actions of the dismissed batsman – by word or action, in failing to

leave the crease promptly on being dismissed, dissenting, lingering histrionics, equipment abuse on or off the ground etc.

8. ‘Send offs’ to the dismissed batsman – if made in an uncomplimentary

manner by voice or action by members of the fielding side. 9. Persistent misbehaviour – players or clubs whose misconduct is reported

to the Secretary more than once may be required to answer a charge of persistent misbehaviour.

10. Consumption of alcohol – players shall not consume alcohol during the

hours of play.

Appendix 2 ADMINISTRATIVE FINES AND PENALTIES ACTION PENALTY Non-attendance at delegates meetings $30 Non-attendance at committee meetings At discretion of Executive Committee Non-attendance at rules night Half points for first 2 matches Non-attendance at representative match Player may be suspended Failure to meet player umpire appointment 1 point per day Failure to play or complete a match $100 plus umpires fees

Breaches of eligibility rules Loss of points for matches in which the ineligible player took part. A further 2 points per match may be deducted.

Failure to telephone match scores $15 or $5 if late

Failure to submit complete match report First offence – up to $15 Repeat offence – up to $15 and 1 point

Failure to submit captain’s report First offence – up to $15 Repeat offence – up to $15 and 1 point

Failure to submit player registration First offence – up to $15 Repeat offence – up to $15 and 1 point

Failure to notify unprepared ground before 9.00 am $60 plus umpires fees, $20 to away

side

Failure to correctly store covers and hessian at FP

First offence, up to $100 Repeat offence, up to $100 and 1 point, regardless of match result

Fawkner Park pavilion cleaning and security $50 if complaint received from council Failure to meet October ground rental payments Half points from round 6 until paid Failure to meet December ground rental payments Half points from round 10 until paid

Late payment of other club accounts (30 days) Half points until account paid Non-approved ball $20 Incorrect attire $10 Failure to follow instructions for pitch covers Up to $100 or loss of points

Failure to correctly remove covers

Day one – forfeit of toss Day two – if the away side bats in the first hour: First offence – up to $100 Repeat offence – up to $100 and 1 point, regardless of match result

Failure to sign umpires’ match report $15

Slow over rate (less than 15 overs/hour in an innings of 30 overs or more)

Mentioned in umpires’ report unless caused by batting side or unforeseen interruptions. Third or subsequent mention – 1 point deduction

Appendix 3 INJURY CODE 1. If a player or an umpire suffers an injury causing bleeding, first aid should be

administered to prevent further bleeding. The injured person shall not return to the field unless the bleeding has ceased.

2. If an injured batsman has retired and is unable to return after the fall of the

9th wicket, they shall be recorded as ‘retired not out’ and the innings shall end.

3. If an injury occurs to a batsman involved in a 10th wicket partnership, the

umpires will allow a reasonable time (up to 10 minutes) for them to obtain treatment. If after 10 minutes the batsman is unable to resume they shall be recorded as ‘retired not out’ and the innings shall end. If the injury occurs within 30 minutes of a scheduled interval and the batsman is unable to resume within 2 minutes, the interval shall be taken immediately. If the batsman cannot resume after the interval they shall be recorded as ‘retired not out’ and the innings shall end.

4. If an umpire sustains an injury and must leave the field for treatment, a

competent person from the batting side shall take their place until the injured umpire is able to resume. If a second umpire has been appointed they shall officiate at the bowler’s end for the time being.

The Alfred Hospital 9076 2000

Appendix 4 FAWKNER PARK COVERS 4.1 Home side’s requirements

Ring the Wet Weather Line to determine if covers have been laid overnight, or if covers should be laid after play on Saturday night

4.2 Home side

Responsible for removal of covers at least one hour before play on both days if required, weather permitting.

4.3 Umpires controlling covers

Umpires take control over the use of covers 60 Minutes before play is scheduled to start.

4.4 After the fixtured start of play

Both sides must provide labour as required and under instructions from the umpires.

4.5 Handing and care of covers

The MCA has invested plenty of time and money to provide covers for Fawkner Park pitches. Careful handling and storage of covers is necessary to ensure that covers remain effective. Covers should not be dragged across bitumen paths or concrete floors, or stood on by players wearing spikes, or left unattended in such a way as they could be blown up against trees.

4.6 Report damaged covers

Report any damage to covers, trolleys, missing tent pegs, mishandling by clubs etc on the umpires match report. The Fawkner Park Secretary is responsible for the maintenance of the covers.

4.7 Correct removal of covers

Take care with removal of water. A broom or squeegee can be used to push water to ends of covers. Remove excess water to low side and off pitch square if possible. More water requires more hands = less spillage, leakage. Take cover beyond the boundary and fold according to folding instructions. Place folded cover on the trolley available from the Covers Room next to the Southern Pavilion.

4.8 Folding covers – The only correct method! This is the only method to fold covers at Fawkner Park so they fit on the trolley and can be moved and stored without damage: Step 1: 1st Fold – Left side to right side

Step 2: 2nd Fold – Top to bottom

Step 3: 3rd Fold – Keep repeating top to bottom until the cover is a strip, less than one metre wide

Step 4: From the folded end of the strip roll toward the open end. Until you have the shape of a barrel.

Appendix 5 DOUBTFUL BOWLING ACTION PROCEDURE This Doubtful Bowling Action procedure is not an alternative to applying the relevant Law. 1. The match umpires report to the Umpires Adviser that they have a concern

about a bowler's action. 2. The Umpires Adviser arranges for one or more senior Melbourne umpires to

formally observe the bowler's action and to report back to the Umpires Adviser.

3. If the reports are all clear, the reports are filed and no further action is taken. 4. If the reports confirm a doubtful action, the Umpires Adviser contacts the

player's club, provides the club with copies of the 'doubtful bowling action procedure' and the observation reports, and advises the club that the bowler needs to correct their bowling action. Bowling coaches can be recommended if needed.

5. The Umpires Adviser arranges for subsequent observations of the bowler's

action and reports in the weeks after the club has been notified. 6. If the reports are all clear, the reports are filed and no further action is taken. 7. If the bowler's action is still observed to be doubtful, the Umpires Adviser

submits a report to the MCA Secretary. Written complaints from clubs to the MCA Secretary may be referred to the Umpires Adviser at step 2. The emphasis in the procedure is on discretion when dealing with the player and their club, and on accurate independent observations of the bowler's action. Observations of bowlers with doubtful bowling actions are more effective when the bowler is not aware that they are being observed. Players with doubtful bowling actions do not come to the attention of the MCA EC until the full procedure has been carried out. Law 24.3 Definition of fair delivery – the arm A ball is fairly delivered in respect of the arm if, once the bowler's arm has reached the level of the shoulder in the delivery swing, the elbow joint is not straightened partially or completely from that point until the ball has left the hand. This definition shall not debar a bowler from flexing or rotating the wrist in the delivery swing.

Appendix 6 ALLOWED GRADES FOR PLAYERS FROM OTHER COMPETITIONS

Comp Name No MCA Only A Grade Only A, A Res, B or

B Sunday VCA Premier 1sts,

2nds 3rds 4ths

Womens 1sts VSDCA Subdistrict 1sts 2nds 3rds VTCA Victorian Turf Senior

Div Senior Div 2nds (Quinn) Div 1 Nth (Isaacs) Div 1 West (Howarth) Div 2 (McNamara) Div 3 (Picone) Div 4 (Clark)

Div 5 (Pollock) Div 1 Nth 2nds Div 1 West 2nds Div 2 2nds Div 3 2nds Div 4 2nds

BHRDCA Box Hill Reporter Ray McIntosh Wilson

Dorothy McIntosh A Grade B Grade Top One-Day Grade

CSB Cricket Southern Bayside Champ Div

Div 1 Div 2

Div 3 Div 4

DDCA Dandenong & District Turf 1 Turf 2

Turf 3 Turf 4 Turf 1 Res Turf 2 Res

DVCA Diamond Valley Barclay Money

Mash B Grade

ECA Eastern Dunstan Shield Wright (A Turf) Sturgess (A Turf) MacGibbon Shield

Armstrong (B Turf) Burt Menzies & Mackay Shaw

FTGDCA Ferntree Gully & District Reeves De Coite GCA Geelong Div 1 1sts

Synth Div 1 Div 1 2nds Div 2 1sts Synth Div 2

MCC MCC Club XI Div 1 Div 2 MPCA Mornington Peninsula Premier 1sts

Provincial 1sts District 1sts Subdistrict 1sts

Premier 2nds Provincial 2nds District 2nds Subdistrict 2nds

NMCA North Metro (ex Jika) Jika Quick

Jika Reserve Quick Reserve Kelly

NWMCA North West Metro Luscombe Kyte

Stringer Attwater

RDCA Ringwood & District Trollope Wilkins

Newey Pascoe

SECA South Eastern (ex CMCA) Longmuir Woolnough Quiney

YVCA Yarra Valley Strachan & Finger