I've nothing against Bedfordshire, but I use them as an example because of what you've said.Kevin Williamson wrote:Absolutely.Roger de Coverly wrote:That's not actually the case though. County matches at Union level still have captains and squads. If as a match captain, you are uncertain about the level of support for a long distance match in April or May and you or your Treasurer are threatened with financial consequences if you pull out when you cannot raise a team, isn't that a disincentive to even try?
When I made that point on Page 1 of this thread I was told that was the intention of the new rule. So, after consultation within the county, Beds decided not to enter (the u180) this year. It’s quite possible that we would have raised a team but we decided not to take the risk.
I’m not sure what the ECF plan to do with any money raised from the fines, but should any be collected could I ask that they consider the reintroduction of individual trophies for members of the winning teams on Finals Day?
Let us suppose that there were nine nominations for the U180 Division, one of which was Bedfordshire. As the first (only) nominee of the EACU, they avoid having to play in the Preliminary Round.
Then we get to the Quarter Finals and Befordshire default. Unless they happen to have been drawn against the winners of the Preliminary Round, their opponents will in effect receive a bye to the Semi Finals. Meanwhile two other teams have played a Preliminary Round match which should have been unnecessary.
You think Bedfordshire should be allowed to behave like that without consequence. Well, you're entitled to your opinion.
The test of the current rules will not be with what the ECF do with any fines received. It will be whether the money received in fines drops to zero, as all the nominees are now from counties and Unions which are committed to fulfilling their obligations.
It does of course remain to be seen whether or not that will prove to be the case