MCC backs discussions on protective head gear for bowlers

The MCC World Cricket committee have backed discussions between the Lord’s-based MCC and the England and Wales Cricket Club to launch a design project for manufacturers to develop “head protection” for bowlers.

Bats to power shots in the shorter formats have raised an alarm to such an extent the day is not far off when a bowler would run in wearing a helmet.

Cricket could now see bowlers get more protection from injuries. Image for representative purposes only. (Getty Images)

The guardians of cricket’s rules have supported a move to design a headgear for the bowlers.

The MCC World Cricket committee have backed discussions between the Lord’s-based MCC and the England and Wales Cricket Club to launch a design project for manufacturers to develop “head protection” for bowlers.

The MCC panel, chaired by former England skipper Mike Gatting and including former India skipper Sourav Ganguly and ex-Australia captain Ricky Ponting, “viewed footage of recent accidents involving bowlers who had been hit immediately after completing his delivery by powerful straight drives, especially in T20 cricket.

The incidents, including one involving Nottinghamshire’s Luke Fletcher last year, gave serious cause for concern,” a media release after the MCC panel’s meeting said on Tuesday.

The ECB has increased its financial support to provide assistance for players and umpires who suffer serious on-field injuries, after Fletcher was concussed last year after being hit on his follow through by Warwickshire’s Sam Hain during a T20 match.

The England board has also allowed concussion replacements in the domestic game.

“It was also felt that a review of existing protection for batsmen and fielders should be conducted to ensure that current models are providing the best possible protection,” the MCC panel added in the statement.

Some umpires already use a protective shield in limited-overs cricket, which they wear on their arm.