Proposals to cut the number of fixtures in the County Championship failed to get sufficient support from clubs

The Professional Cricketers’ Association has accused County Championship chairs of failing to prioritise player welfare after they rejected plans to streamline the competition.

A long-running consultation on reducing the number of fixtures in the English game concluded yesterday without achieving the two-thirds majority support required.

The proposals put to a vote were for the top division to expand to 12 teams but play 13 times each – one game fewer than under the current format.

“Ultimately the required minimum number of 12 county chairs did not see player welfare as a priority,” said PCA chair Olly Hannon-Dalby.

“The players’ voice on the schedule has been steadfast for a

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