Fielding Regulations
ECB Rules and Regulations for Fielding Positions
ECB Fielding Regulations for Players aged under 18
The following regulations apply to both hard and soft ball cricket.
Notes
- These Regulations apply in both hard and soft ball cricket.
- Players fielding behind the wicket on the off side are not required to comply with the minimum distances or protective equipment requirements.
- Where 'age' is referred to (e.g. in the table below), it means the player's age on the day of the match.
Minimum Fielding Distance from Striking Batter
| Age | Minimum fielding distance from striking batter |
|---|---|
| 9 and below | 11 yards (10 metres) |
| 10 to 13 | 11 yards (10 metres) |
| 14 to 15 | 8 yards (7.3 metres) |
| 16 to 17 | None but protective equipment mandatory if within 8 yards (7.3 metres) |
| 18+ | None but protective equipment advised |
Protective Equipment
Players aged 6 to 17 fielding within 8 yards (7.3m) from the striking batter must wear a helmet and, for boys, an abdominal protector (box), except behind the wicket on the off side.
Once an umpire becomes aware that a fielder is fielding, or intending to field, in a position that does not comply with the minimum distance or protective equipment requirements, they will advise the captain and/or their responsible adult that unless the fielder complies, their team will be deemed to be refusing to play and that the game will be awarded to their opponents (Law 16.3.1.2).
Non-Compliance Procedures
If the fielder or captain still refuses to comply
If the fielder or captain still refuses to comply, then the umpires are required to:
- Advise the captain and/or their responsible adult that unless the fielder complies, their team will be deemed to be refusing to play and that the game will be awarded to their opponents (Law 16.3.1.2).
- After giving the captain/responsible adult some time to resolve the situation, ask them if the fielder is refusing to comply.
- If they confirm this or have not resolved the situation, award the game to their opponents.
- Leave the field of play and report the events and individuals involved to the authority responsible for the game.
Application
These regulations apply to both age-group and open-age cricket.
Key Points to Remember
- •Regulations apply to both hard and soft ball cricket
- •Players fielding behind the wicket on the off side are exempt from minimum distance requirements
- •Age refers to the player's age on the day of the match
- •Players aged 16-17 must wear helmet and box (boys) when within 8 yards
- •Umpires must enforce these regulations strictly to ensure player safety
Last updated: January 2026