The 1st Central County Ground selected to host training sessions for England bowlers

The 1st Central County Ground has been selected by the ECB to host individual training sessions for England men’s bowlers.

Adhering to strict government guidelines, the seven venues selected by the ECB are: The 1st Central County Ground, The Cooper Associates County Ground, Edgbaston, Emirates Old Trafford, Emirates Riverside, Kia Oval and Trent Bridge.

All venues will likely stage at least one session this week and then a full roll out across venues from next week.

From June 1, batsmen and wicketkeepers will return to individual training. These sessions will see a coach and a physio in attendance. It is expected that additional venues across the country will be added to accommodate these sessions. These venues will be confirmed nearer the time by the ECB.

Key principles of individual training include:

• Washing of hands regularly
• Maintaining a minimum of two metres physical and social distancing
• Clean equipment used with disinfectant wipes – including mobile phones
• Players to bring their own kit – including assigned cricket balls
• Players to arrive in training ready to start practice
• Players will bowl into an empty net and pick up own ball
• No saliva or sweat to be used on the ball

Bowling into a mitt is an example of individual training and the following principles will apply:

• Players use their own ball
• Coach wears own mitt
• Coach wears a disposable glove on the other hand
• Between sessions, coaches to wipe down mitt and other equipment

Please note that while The 1st Central County Ground has been selected by the ECB to host individual training sessions, it is still closed to the public.