For the purposes of these Directives a fast bowler is defined as a bowler to whom a wicket keeper in the same age group would in normal circumstances stand back to take the ball.

Having completed a spell the bowler cannot bowl again, from either end, until the equivalent number of overs to the length of his* spell have been bowled from the same end. A bowler can change ends without ending his current spell provided that he bowls the next over that he legally can from the other end. If this does not happen his spell is deemed to be concluded. If play is interrupted, for any reason, for less than 40 minutes any spell in progress at the time of the interruption can be continued after the interruption up to the maximum number of overs per spell for the appropriate age group. If the spell is not continued after the interruption the bowler cannot bowl again, from either end, until the equivalent number of overs to the length of his spell before the interruption have been bowled from the same end. If the interruption is of 40 minutes or more, whether scheduled or not, the bowler can commence a new spell immediately.

Once a bowler covered by these Directives has bowled in a match he cannot exceed the maximum number overs per day for his age group even if he subsequently bowls spin. He can exceed the maximum overs per spell if bowling spin, but cannot then revert to bowling fast until an equivalent number of overs to the length of his spell have been bowled from he same end. If he bowls spin without exceeding the maximum number of overs in a spell the maximum will apply as soon as he reverts to bowling fast.

It is the responsibility of the Captain to inform the Umpires, prior to the commencement of the match, of the age group of any player under the age of 19 as at midnight on 31st August in the preceding season. This should be done when the teams are nominated, in writing, as required by the 2000 Code of the Laws of Cricket. It is also helpful if the Captain identifies those players who are expected to bowl fast and be covered by the Directives. The ECB has produced team sheet cards which are available to clubs, leagues and Umpires free of charge to help with this procedure.

Captains are responsible for ensuring that any fast bowler who falls within the Under 19 age group and younger does not exceed the ECB Directives for maximum overs per spell and maximum overs per day. It is essential that the maximum overs per spell and minimum rest period Directives are strictly followed.

Umpires will monitor the above and inform Captains of any potential breach of the Directives prior to the commencement of the over which would bring about the breach.

In these circumstances, should the Captain refuse to withdraw the bowler, the Umpire will inform the Captain that there will be a breach of the ECB Directives and that the Captain will personally assume full responsibility for this action including the transfer of all legal liabilities from the Umpires to the Captain. The match should then proceed. At the conclusion of the match the Umpires should report the breach to the Executive of the fielding side and to the League or other Governing Body responsible for the match. It is also recommended that, if the bowler is a member of a County squad, the relevant County Coach is informed of the breach.

The definition of a fast bowler, as one to whom a wicket keeper in the same age group would in normal circumstances stand back to take the ball, should be interpreted on a reasonable basis - for example, if the bowler is Under 17 would it be reasonable to expect an Under 17 wicket keeper of average ability to stand up. If Captains have any doubt as to whether a young fast bowler is covered by the Directives they should consult the County or Club Coach for the relevant age group for guidance.

Captains, Team Managers and Umpires are asked to ensure that these Directives are followed at all times.

*Any reference to he/his should be interpreted to include she/her.