Merv said:

"I've been playing in the County League for a couple of years now and I just can't get my head around why we just do not use a win/lose system as in Australia. It's ridiculous, points for batting out and playing totally negative cricket. This is what drives people away from the game."

What Merv is suggesting is five points for a win, none for a defeat and two points for any other result (tie, abandoned etc). He goes on to say:

"This system is played in grade and state cricket in Australia. It produces bowlers who learn how to bowl under pressure and economically, and batsmen who learn to play more aggresively whilst still keeping their techinque."

Fixture secretary Chris Higginbottom said:

"It's the clubs who vote on the rules, and they can suggest rule changes to be put in front of the Rules Revision meeting in November. The change to a straight win/lose system you advocate has been put up a couple of times in the last five years. On neither occasion did it get much support, I think the best being about 15 clubs out of 70+."

Gary Smith added his views to the argument by saying:

"Having played in Oz, I agree totally. It makes the game far more attractive. Just look at cup matches - more often than not a close finish occurs."

Upnunder, defending the existing system said:

"I do agree with the draw system, however, I would slightly change it. For the team chasing to get any points for the draw, they should have to get a percentage of the total set. This would discourage teams chasing 250 plus from blocking out from the word go and playing a very frustrating innings."

Higginbottom went on to say:

"Personally I agree with you .... It keeps it simple, and in line with the current system, but gives a side out to block less reward, and their opponents more. We are due a Rules subcommittee meeting soon, so I will bring it up there."

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