CRICKET clubs across the region will be allowed to return to outdoor practice later this month after certain restrictions were lifted by the Welsh government.

The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that competitive fixtures are still suspended until further notice, but facilities can begin to reopen from Monday, June 22.

This new guidance relates to participation in outdoor sport only, and social distancing measures of two metres are still applicable.

The change does not permit the reopening of pavilions for changing, social or hospitality purposes, and more than one club at a facility is not permitted.

From Monday, teams can reopen their outfields for outdoor sport activity that complies with government guidance. They have also been given approval to use cricket nets on an ‘every other net’ basis in accordance with social distancing guidelines.

The ECB is requesting that a representative from the club to be on site at all times while their facilities are open for use.

When outdoor nets and outfields are closed and there is general open access, closed signage should be clear and visible to inform the public that this area is not available for use.

Club buildings, which include changing rooms and any bar area, together with other communal areas are to remain closed to reduce the risk of interaction.

This will come as welcome news to cricket clubs up and down the country who have had their season decimated by the coronavirus pandemic.

There is still some hope that games can be played later this summer, but there will be no promotion or relegation due to the possible short timeframe in which they will be working in.