Is 41 The New 21?

Every time we attend a cricket league meeting, the topic of “involving the youth” in the cricket leagues is always discussed. Usually it’s the same chain of events that occur meeting after meeting; a few wise men bring forth their ideas and how it’s their life’s mission to involve the youth in our local leagues, some more wise men join in and pledge their support for the cause, we all clap and sing praises of probably a handful of times something was actually done regarding the subject and then we all have our refreshments and go home. Don’t get me wrong, a few individuals and organizations have indeed done their part in inspiring the youth to go out and take up the game of cricket and there is actually a youth team that takes part in CLNJ Division 3, but I do not think this is enough and I strongly believe that as a NJ cricket fraternity we have truly dropped the ball.

As they say, “Don’t Come to Me With a Problem If You Don’t Have a Solution” so, here is my solution or more of a suggestion to the decision makers in our local leagues.  Implement a rule that every playing 11 should have a player which is no older than 21 years of age. I do not believe that this is an unreasonable ask and this will not only mandate teams to involve a youth but it may also give chances to youth who are eager to play the game, but are reduced to just scoring or fielding as 12^th man for their father’s or uncle’s team.

I will love to hear from the team captains and club Executives regarding this matter. Will you support the idea of having a U-21 player in your playing 11 regardless of their skill level or do you believe that having a U-41 experienced slip fielder in for all 40 overs is the way to go ;)