The MCC and ECB are considering helmets for bowlers to avoid head injuries from hard-hit balls. GETTY IMAGES
A leading Australian cricket manufacturer said that it is "willing to help" the Marylebone Cricket Club develop helmets or face guards for bowlers "should safety fears demand such action," according to Jon Pierik of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. The MCC World Cricket Committee endorsed discussions between the Lord’s-based MCC and the England & Wales Cricket Club to "begin a design project for manufacturers to develop head protection for bowlers." The MCC panel is chaired by former England captain Mike Gatting and features former Australian captain Ricky Ponting and former India captain Sourav Ganguly. While discussions are in their "infancy," Kookaburra Sport spokesperson Shannon Gill said that the manufacturer is "open" to suggestions "should bowlers require safety equipment." He said, "We currently make helmets for batters and a whole range of protective equipment. Our helmets are now being adopted by international players. So if this was a path the MCC were advising, we'd be happy to work with them, understand what is needed and see how we can help" (SMH, 8/11).
