Worcestershire have been handed a suspended two-point deduction for next season’s Vitality Blast after their allrounder, Josh Cobb, was found using a bat that exceeded the legal size in a North Group match against Durham in July.
Cobb accepted responsibility for breaching ECB Directives 3.2 and 3.3 after his bat failed a size check during the match, though he hadn’t faced a ball at the time. Initially, the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) imposed an immediate points deduction, but Worcestershire appealed, resulting in the penalty being suspended. The deduction will only be enforced if the club commits a similar violation in the future.
This is the second instance of such a penalty in county cricket this season. Essex were hit with a 12-point deduction in the County Championship last month after Feroz Khushi breached bat-size regulations during their first match of the season against Nottinghamshire in April.
Essex strongly criticised that decision, with club president Keith Fletcher calling it "foolish," especially as it dashed the club's chances of contending for the County Championship. Their final match of the season against champions Surrey is underway this week.
Worcestershire were equally shocked by the initial ruling. In their appeal, they argued that losing two points could jeopardise their chances of making it to the knockouts in next year’s Vitality Blast. The club explained that missing out on qualification would severely impact their squad, coaching staff, sponsors, and finances, potentially causing lasting damage.
In response to the appeal, adjudicator Chris Tickle reconsidered his verdict, stating, "In light of the circumstances, I am convinced that reviewing my decision serves justice."
Dave Lewis, interim director of the Cricket Regulator, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, saying, "We are pleased to have worked with Worcestershire CCC and the CDC, leading to the adjudicator’s decision review. This is the second oversized bat incident this year, and we will work with counties, players, and officials to prevent future occurrences."
The Cricket Regulator is responsible for enforcing domestic cricket rules and educating participants to prevent breaches. While it investigates and prosecutes cases, the CDC, an independent body, adjudicates breaches and determines penalties.