A FEW weeks ago I mentioned the spirit of cricket.

The ECB have issued the following guidelines for all those having anything to do with the game and seeing it is played within the correct spirit as well as the laws.

The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains but extends to all players, umpires and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents.

Respect is central to the spirit of cricket.

Respect your captain, team-mates, opponents and the authority of the umpire.

Play hard and play fair.

Accept the umpire's decision.

Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct and encourage others to do the same.

Show self-discipline even when things go against you.

Congratulate the opposition on their successes and enjoy those of your own team.

Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match whatever the result.

It is quite a comprehensive list of things to think about, but if everyone followed these guidelines we would not have any problems and the game would be enjoyed by all.

I must admit in a recent game it was nice to see the members of the opposition congratulate a young bowler of the losing side on his performance, and the whole team acknowledge a fine century scored by a player.

At another match the bowler who had been carted all round the ground was the first to shake hands with the batsman as he reached his century.

Now that is respect and the game played in the right spirit.

Take the last point in the guidelines. Players seem to thank each other for the game but some players refuse to shake hands with the official at the end.

It is as if the officials are being blamed for the side's loss just because they disagree with an umpire's decision, but do not remember the dropped catches, misfields or rank bad shots.

Many umpires are only too willing to stay behind and have a chat after the game with players and discuss matters, but players at some clubs seem to disappear quite quickly and head back to their own clubs.

Cricket is an exciting game that encourages team leadership, teamwork and friendship which brings people together from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the spirit of cricket.