ECB reduces overseas signings in counties from 2008

London, Aug 3 (UNI) The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has decided to cut down the number of overseas players in county cricket from two to one from the 2008 season.

''During a consultation process, led by ECB deputy chief executive Hugh Morris, it became clear that an overwhelming number of counties supported the reduction from two to one overseas player,'' an ECB statement said here.

The ECB said counties found it difficult to attract a second overseas player for a full season as their home boards recalled them at frequent intervals. The board also claimed that counties now wanted to provide more opportunities to local players.

The matter was discussed in an ECB meeting at Lord's on Tuesday and ''the proposal for a reduction was passed unanimously.'' With this, counties would be allowed to sign one overseas player from 2008, who could be replaced in case of injury or home commitments.

''From 2008 counties will be able to register one overseas player but would be able to replace that player should he be injured, called up for an overseas tour at short notice or be required to return home by his Board,'' the ECB statement said.

''A maximum number of four overseas players could be registered in one season under the new proposals with a minimum three week registration period for each player,'' the release added.

The ECB also announced that the Performance Related Fee Payments, introduced this season, will be trebled next year to provide further encouragement to the development of England teams.

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