On-field umpires will be allowed to decline holding bowlers’ caps and sweaters, with reports saying ECB officials discussed their concerns regarding contact in times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to a report in Daily Mail, officials voiced their concerns to Chris Kelly, ECB’s umpires manager, a discussion that could result in bowlers dropping off their caps, sweaters and glasses at the boundary line, rather than handing it out to the umpires, as is the norm.

Umpires, however, will not be told to wear gloves during games, which could turn out to be an issue when they handle the ball to check its shape. If the games aren’t played behind closed doors, a six that lands in the public could pose a threat to the umpire when checking the condition of the ball. Yet, the decision to don gloves, or other protective equipment to reduce the chances of virus transmission, would rest with the umpires themselves.

With increased scrutiny on hygiene during Covid-19, some of cricket’s common practices might go for a toss, including the use of saliva to shine the ball, which could adversely affect the fielding team according to Australia quick Josh Hazlewood.

It remains to be seen if and when these directives will be put into place, as cricket’s long-drawn suspension continues with little clarity over when the sport can possibly resume.