CRICKET clubs across the region could see a return to action in the near future after the UK Government gave the green light for the recreational game to resume.

The England and Wales Cricket Board outlined their delight at the U-turn from Prime Minister Boris Johnson regarding the safety of cricket during the coronavirus pandemic, with leagues across the country now set to resume from Saturday, July 11.

It remains to be seen when this will apply to Wales, with First Minister Mark Drakeford yet to make any formal announcements on this matter.

The latest update signals progression from Step 3 to Step 4 of ECB’s roadmap to return for the recreational game, meaning competitive cricket matches in England with adjustments to respect hygiene and social distancing would be permitted.

Guidelines are already prepared for the return of recreational cricket and will now be finalised and published later this week.

Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said: “It will come as great news to our nation of recreational cricketers that the UK Government has given the green light for the game to return from next weekend.

“We are grateful for the support of Government to achieve this, in particular Oliver Dowden, Nigel Huddleston and those across DCMS who have helped the return of international, professional and now recreational cricket.

“As the nation's summer sport we believe we have a role to play in getting people active across the country, especially young people, and it is heartening to know that club cricket – albeit with social distancing in place and some other adaptations – will soon be back across England.”

This decision might speed things up for clubs in Wales for a competitive return, with outdoor facilities reopened for training purposes last weekend.

Colwyn Bay and Prestatyn might be impacted by this decision the most due to their involvement in the Liverpool and District Competition leagues.