ECB announce new rules on helmets in English cricket

Batsmen in professional cricket in England will have to wear helmets against all types of bowlers from next season.

In addition, keepers standing up to the wicket and all fielders within eight yards of the batsman's middle stump - less those behind the wicket on the off side - will also have to wear helmets.

The ECB is also recommending that all recreational cricketers wear helmets which meet the latest British Safety Standard from next season.

The use of protective headgear is already mandatory for all under 18s within the recreational game, while wearing a helmet is currently optional for professional batsmen, fielders and wicket-keepers.

The changes - which were announced on the first anniversary of the death of Australia Test player Phillip Hughes after he was hit in the head by a delivery - follow a joint review by the ECB and the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) of existing safety guidance and are designed to reduce the risk of head and facial injuries within the game.

ECB Chief Medical Officer Dr Nick Peirce said: "We can see from our injury surveillance that cricket is not a dangerous sport in comparison to many other leisure activities.

"However, as we have seen in recent times, the cricket ball can cause significant injury and it is extremely important that players take the appropriate precautions when batting, keeping wicket or fielding close to the stumps.

"The latest cricket helmets have made significant strides in providing protection against potentially catastrophic injury and we would strongly advise all players to make sure their helmet conforms to the latest British Safety Standard.

"Today's decision is a major step forward and will help make First Class cricket safer as well as sending a strong message to the recreational game about the importance of helmet safety."

PCA Chief Executive Angus Porter said: "We welcome today's decision on helmet use, which is the product of a joint initiative between the PCA and ECB.

"It provides an excellent opportunity for professional cricketers to lead by example and drive greater awareness of the importance of player safety across the whole game."