Bowling Machine Policy

This policy relates specifically to BOLA Machines owned by the club.

Only coaches/players with a minimum Level 2 ECB coaching qualification are eligible to operate the bowling machine for any sessions.

Seniors/Juniors

To operate the bowling machine for Senior practices a person with a minimum Level 2 qualification should be in attendance at the session.

Safety

All batters should face the Bowling Machine (BOLA) protected in the same way as they would be for participating in a competitive match. They need to be wearing a minimum of a helmet, batting gloves, pads and cricket box. Batters, especially Juniors, should also be encouraged to protect themselves with forearm guards and body and thigh pads. 

The BOLA Machine should be set up on short legs for all batters under the age of twelve years regardless of how tall they may be as the bounce created by the machine on its full length legs will be unrealistic and unexpected by junior players. 

Coaches should be aware that bowling machines attract attention. When using the machine in an open sports hall or in nets at the club please be aware that spectators will be drawn towards the machine. Ensure that all spectators are positioned in a safe area before feeding any balls into the machine.

Only BOLA compatible balls are to be used with the bowling machine, these should be of a similar age and condition (without the dimples worn away).

All operators of the machine should clearly hold the ball above the feeding station of the machine to ensure batter has visibility of the ball entering the machine. Sufficient time should be allocated between each delivery for batter preparation. 

Where necessary changes in speed of delivery should be implemented in small increments and the batsmen advised.

When a session is finished the machine should be dismant led and stored appropriately.