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London: A cricket club has banned its players from hitting sixes - on health and safety grounds.
Players at Harrogate Cricket Club, North Yorkshire, have been warned that if they hit balls towards the surrounding houses they are automatically out of the game.
Harrogate Borough Council, owners of the ground, has decided that the "no six" rule on the second pitch should be imposed on all players.
Meanwhile, the council has ruled that use of playing strips, including the square, should be restricted to meet the minimum distances allowed. A report from the council says the decisions have been taken to achieve a balance with residents.
Mike Rawlings, Harrogate Cricket Club Chairman, said the ruling doesn't frustrate the players. "As long as everyone knows the rules at the start of the game then you just play to those rules. Most of the neighbours are very supportive of the club, but we have the odd person who complains," he said.
Rawlings said: "Most of them just throw the balls straight back, but some of the residents, the ones who have concerns, keep them."
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