The OCC is completing their autumn work in preparation for the 2018 season. The Secretary has already asked clubs to confirm what changes each club envisages for the coming season in their teams and whether they feel movement to a different league is sought, independent of the normal promotion/ relegation promotion movements. Clubs are asked to reply to this request as soon as possible.
Clubs consider that promotion or relegation is automatically based on their end of season position from the previous season. But this is not so and apart from club’ s requests, there are a wide range of issues to be considered. These include the suitability of the ground to play at a different level – initially one considers the wicket, the outfield and sightscreens but other facilities including toilets, changing facilities and services (water and electricity for printers for DLS printouts). All these and other factors have to be taken into account.
The last element which is considered is the strategy regarding general balancing of leagues that may be considered necessary to ensure a balance between the leagues in terms of clubs, geography etc.
The final decision will be made by Cricket Committee in the coming weeks following the recommendation of the OCC.