How ExtraCover Insurance are helping clubs through Covid-19

With the ECB’s recent announcement that clubs can reopen their outdoor facilities, clubs understandably have questions and want to ensure they are following the right guidelines

In the current pandemic, our sport is being tested in ways it has never been before. Of course, it is right for cricket clubs for shut their doors and matches to be postponed but this comes at a cost, both socially and financially. No two clubs are the same so some may be prepared for a blank year while others may not. And then you have to consider what the knock-on effect will be next summer. Despite there being no restrictions (hopefully), will clubs even be in a position to operate.

There are a lot of questions and a lot of uncertainties, all involved in club cricket need advice.

The Yorkshire-based insurance brokers Marshall Wooldridge, and their ExtraCover Insurance scheme, are doing all they can to help clubs keep themselves afloat.

“We’ve had hundreds, probably thousands, of emails in the past two months from clubs seeking advice, and we have answered all of them.” Mark Dearden, sports development manager, tells The Cricketer.

“Based on their situation and needs we have tried to give each club the best advice we can. Certain aspects of their cover should remain in place but we’ve also been able to advise clubs to delete elements of their policy if necessary in the understanding that when cricket is back up and running they can be re-added.”

With the ECB’s recent announcement that clubs can reopen their outdoor facilities, clubs understandably have questions and want to ensure they are following the right guidelines in accordance with their insurance policy.

^{Clubs face an uncertain future, but ExtraCover Insurance can provide invaluable advice}

“The question we get asked is, ‘Are we protected if we open our nets?’ And the answer is yes, provided they are complying with UK law.” Dearden explained. “It is also very good practice to comply with the ECB advice too. The ECB have done really well with their guidelines so if you follow them you won’t go wrong.”

And this advice is not limited to customers of the insurance scheme. Any club can get in touch in this testing time about all aspects of protecting your club, such as good practice, what parts of policy to focus on and who best to contact about grants.

“We’re delighted with what we’ve been able to do, such as extending credit periods for clubs by offering a longer repayment schedule. We have worked with clubs to find a way so they can all keep going.

“I do believe the clubs we cover are better equipped for this unprecedented situation. They each have a bespoke policy which also applies to current threats. The wording is simple, comply with UK law, which includes ensuring there is cleaning material and that players maintain distancing, and clubs will continue to be protected.

“Clubs don’t have to do anything to activate this protection as it is already part of their wording.”

The advice and guidelines issued by the ECB has been well-received, but ExtraCover Insurance can help ensure that advice is applied correctly at your club, providing protection and ensuring financial wellbeing.

The reopening of club facilities shows there is light at the end of the tunnel but this is no time to take any chances.

Contact the dedicated ExtraCover Insurance team for advice or if you would like a review of your cricket club insurance

Call free on 0800 289 301 to speak with Mark, Helen or David or email extracover@marswool.com

Click here to visit the ExtraCover Insurance website