THE future of cricket at Channel Islands level could take a turn for the better if the CI Cricket Board take the decision to split from the England and Wales Cricket Board.

The CI Board members are seeking the views of the Jersey cricket community before they make a final decision on whether to stay under the umbrella of the England and Wales Cricket Board or sever the link and join the International Cricket Conference instead.Such is the importance of the CICB’s final decision that they will put across their thoughts, as a matter of courtesy, in order that a decision can be reached for the best interests of Jersey cricket.CICB chairman Keith Dennis said: ‘This is a big decision to take and we want to hear the views of club officials, past and present players and the parents of young cricketers who are now coming into the sport.’Moving away from the ECB is a big step and it needs to be discussed thoroughly.

Currently, the youngsters are getting good cricket up to the age of 17, but after that there is nothing for them or for the Island team.

The only cricket available after under-17 level are inter-insular matches, and that is just not enough.’We are inviting the public to make their views known to us.

Whatever decision is finally made, we want it made for the best interests of Jersey cricket.’Joining the ICC would offer Jersey cricketers in all age-groups more opportunities, as they would move into Division II and have games against countries such as Norway, Greece, Austria, Gibraltar and Switzerland.Moving away from the ECB would mean that Jersey and Guernsey would in effect stand on their own, but it would not affect inter-insular cricket.The CICB also want the best of both worlds, with the juniors continuing to play against mainland opposition and spreading the net to take in the ICC scene.The meeting, which will be chaired by Keith Dennis, takes place in the Don Theatre at Fort Regent next Tuesday at 7 pm.

Guernsey member David Piesing will address the meeting, having done most of the research on behalf of both Islands.Anyone interested in the future of Jersey cricket is invited to the meeting.