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12 During the course of the season there were opinions being voiced in some quarters about
the ICC in general being a somewhat repetitive and “stale” competition. Of course it is too
early for us to form an opinion based on experience but several years ago when the ESMBA
(Keith Hawkins) called for suggestions, our county submitted a very detailed format for a radical
change based on the way the Northern England league has operated successfully for years.
Simply put, the basic idea was to divide the country into 4 regions and within each there
would be 2 divisions each containing 6 teams. Everyone would therefore have 10 games within
their region/division. The 4 regional winners would then play in a national semi-final and promo-
tion/relegation would take place at the end of each season. Whilst implementing such a change
would not be without teething problems, it was felt such a reformat would have advantages.
1) More games guaranteed
2) Simplicity - all teams in same competition and no consolation competition
3) Strong ‘A’ teams can rise above weak Premier teams
4) No Prelims or Q Finals therefore less ESMBA involvement and reduced cost
5) Entry cost could possibly be reduced
6) Later start and longer playing season possible
7) More attractive to those counties currently not taking part (?)
This idea is raised in this magazine in order to fuel discussion only and the NYSMBA is not in-
tending to put this forward as a proposal but the view of other counties would be read with interest.
Roger Green

NYSMBA Publicity Officer

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