The England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) today issued a statement in response to an article published in this afternoon's Evening Standard newspaper. In the article, Don Trangmar, Chairman of Sussex CCC, was attributed as having made certain remarks about the future of county cricket.

Most specifically, he was quoted as expressing "grave concern about unofficial reports that the ECB's long-term objective is to streamline the domestic circuit to 14 (First Class) counties".

The ECB categorically refutes this suggestion and, quite to the contrary, has - on several occasions - made it entirely clear that it is committed to preserving and developing all 18 First Class counties. As recently as the June 14th meeting of the ECB Management Board, this policy was once again re-stated.

Tim Lamb, Chief Executive of the ECB, commented:

"Quite honestly, I'm a little mystified as to why Don has expressed concern about the ECB's future commitment to all 18 First Class counties. We are absolutely committed to the one-game approach which underpins our relationship with all 18 counties, whether they be Test Match Grounds (TMG's) or non-TMG's.

We recognise the undeniable importance of all 18 First Class counties and, as will be apparent when we publish our five year strategy for the game later in the year, this is predicated on the basis of 18 counties, not 14. We cannot be clearer about our intentions for the future.

Through their representation on the ECB Management Board, all 18 First Class counties and, indeed, the 20 non-First Class counties, have a voice in the professional management of the domestic game. I think there is a strong consensus among counties that, generally speaking, the game is moving forward in the right direction".

© ECB