Hertfordshire Cricket

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An open letter to the Hertfordshire cricket community – including players, coaches, umpires, parents, club officials, administrators – from Hertfordshire Cricket Limited

We hope this message finds you well and that you’re enjoying a successful and fulfilling cricket season.

At Hertfordshire Cricket, we are becoming increasingly concerned about the rising number of reports involving poor behaviour during matches. The volume and seriousness of these incidents in the 2025 season are alarming and require urgent attention.

What is particularly troubling is that much of this inappropriate behaviour is occurring in the presence of young players. As members of the cricketing community, we all share the responsibility of setting a positive example — creating an environment that is safe, respectful, and welcoming for children and young people. More than that, we have both a legal and moral obligation to safeguard their wellbeing.

Parents place a great deal of trust in us when they allow their children to participate in open-age cricket. At the very least, they should expect that their children are treated with kindness, dignity, and respect.

Let us be clear: foul and abusive language, aggressive sledging, intimidation, and similar misconduct have no place in our sport. The Spirit of Cricket — which underpins everything we value about the game — must remain at the heart of how we play. Captains, in particular, are reminded of their responsibility for the conduct of their players, both on and off the field.

This negative behaviour is also taking a toll on our vital volunteers. Without the time, energy, and passion of league and club administrators, umpires, scorers, captains, and others, recreational cricket would not exist. Sadly, we are already losing valued individuals due to the growing pressures they face — not only in terms of poor behaviour but also through family commitments, work demands, and other challenges.

We are writing today to urge everyone involved in the game — administrators, coaches, club officials, umpires, scorers, players, and parents — to renew their commitment to promoting a respectful and inclusive cricketing culture. Each of us plays a vital role in protecting the spirit and reputation of our game, and in creating an environment where the next generation of players can thrive.

If there is anything we can do to support you or your club in this effort, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Thank you for your continued dedication to the game and for helping to ensure cricket remains a sport we can all be proud of.

Julie Page – County Safeguarding Officer
Dominic Chatfield – Head of Participation
Hertfordshire Cricket Limited