Stop The Rowdiness Or There Will Be More Issues

Dan Whiting looks at the potential impact rowdy crowds at the T20 Blast could have on the next generation of cricketers

- Dan Whiting

The T20 Blast has had much discussion over the last year regarding its comparison to other leagues around the world, franchises and attracting a new type of fan. However, this has caused huge consternation amongst the cricketing fraternity on social media, who already have concerns over the ‘new’ type of fan that the ECB wishes to attract to the new competition starting in 2020.

This year certain grounds have seen problems that have blighted our national summer game. Stewards had to intervene as a fight broke out in a fixture between Essex and Middlesex at Chelmsford, whilst on the same night arguments abounded between those whose allegiance (not sure if support is the right word) was to Yorkshire and Lancashire during the Roses T20. Aggressive behaviour has been reported on social media at Canterbury and Bristol, whilst a seat throwing contest between followers of Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire provided a backdrop to our sport earlier in the season.

T20 is attracting decent crowds but the combination of too much sun, plentiful beer and local rivalries seem to be too much for certain individuals. The problems certainly do not blight the four day game, where the chance to drink for longer is on offer to these people.