ECB: helmets ‘mandatory’ for cricketers

From next season onwards, England cricketers will have to wear mandatory helmets while batting, keeping wickets or fielding close to the stumps. Confirming the news, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief medical officer Nick Peirce said that they have decided to take appropriate precautions keeping in view the significant injuries that have been observed from the cricket ball.

The rule came in the wake of the former Australian batsman Phillip Hughes’ death, who was struck by a bouncer on the back of the neck during a domestic match in Sydney.

From next season onwards, England cricketers will have to wear mandatory helmets while batting, keeping wickets or fielding close to the stumps.

Confirming the news, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief medical officer Nick Peirce said that they have decided to take appropriate precautions keeping in view the significant injuries that have been observed from the cricket ball.

Peirce also urged players to ensure that their helmet meets the latest British safety standard.

The rule came in the wake of the former Australian batsman Phillip Hughes’ death, who was struck by a bouncer on the back of the neck during a domestic match in Sydney.