England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday gave green-signal to the commencement of the men's county cricket season from August 1.
The format of the season, however, is yet to be announced and will rather be discussed and agreed upon by the 18 First-Class Counties in early July, following which the new fixture will be announced.
The season, due to start in April, was suspended indefinitely in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, also pushing ECB's new tournament 'The Hundred' to 2021.
The format of the County Championship will be decided by the 18 First-Class Counties in early July and subsequently, the new schedule will be announced.
"A commitment to play women’s domestic cricket in 2020 has also been made, but may differ from the planned rollout of the new women's elite domestic structure," said the ECB in a statement.
"Preparation and planning for the season across the men's and women's domestic game remains subject to ongoing advice from Government and medical professionals with the safety of players, staff and officials the first priority."
The players can also resume training "on or before July 1" and plans for the season include "options for red-ball and white-ball cricket".
ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “It is a significant step for our game that we are able to approve the start of the men’s domestic season for 1 August and one which will be welcomed by everyone connected with County Cricket.
“It follows extensive consultation between the 18 First-Class Counties, the Professionals Cricketers’ Association and ECB and has only been achievable thanks to the significant hard work that continues to occur as we prepare for a domestic season unlike any the game has faced before.
“It must be stressed that the safety of our players, staff and officials has been the first priority through all discussions and Government guidance will continue to shape our planning and preparation.
Meanwhile, international cricket is set to resume in England with the team playing a three-match Test series against West Indies starting July 8 at the Old Traffprd Ground in Manchester.
(with PTI inputs)
