ALL sports have been forced to overhaul every aspect of their operation to recover from COVID-19 and the South Australian Cricket Association has introduced its return to play guide.
While early days yet, cricketers across South Australia have been put on notice and must follow each protocol to safely return to the pitch in the upcoming season amid the coronavirus pandemic.
It will be a unique battle between bat and ball under the new protocols, which are divided into three sections for players or individuals, teams or clubs and competitions or associations.
The biggest adjustment for the players will be the ban imposed on using sweat and saliva to shine the ball.
The practise has been a controversial talking point since cricket was shut down by COVID-19.
Bowlers around the world are concerned the polishing restrictions could make life much easier for the batsmen as the ball could lose its shine quickly and display minimal movement through the air.
Despite teams at the top level allowed to use sweat to maintain the ball’s shine, South Australian fielders do not have the same freedom and bowlers will be praying for restrictions to ease before summer arrives.
Social distancing must also be maintained where possible on the field, with the only exception the wicketkeeper when standing up to the stumps, while even slip fielders have been recommended to stand 1.5 metres apart.
Wicket celebrations will be a thing of the past with no high fives, handshakes or hugs permitted.
Sharing of equipment, food or drinks is also not allowed with players urged to use a “get in, play and get out” mentality.
Before the season begins, each club must create a COVID-Safe Plan and nominate a COVID Captain, who completes infection control training, disinfects all equipment before and after use and records attendance figures at each session.
During training sessions no more than five people can practise inside a net, while on game day, the make up of each team will be different with just 10 players permitted per side.
