In an effort to curb rising incidents of player dissent in domestic cricket on the island, Southampton Rangers have come up with the “Just Walk” campaign.

When Rangers go out eyeing a fourth trophy of the season against Devonshire Rec in the First Division Knockout Cup final at PHC Field tomorrow, the players will seek to help restore fair play and the spirit of the game by wearing jerseys with the initiative’s logo in front.

According to Darren “Butch” Burchall, the Rangers president, the idea came out of a conversation he had with coach Herbie Bascome and Dion Stovell, the cricket chairman.

“We want players to stand up and take responsibility for their actions,” Burchall said.

“If the umpire gives you out, just walk; there is no need for confrontation because it is destroying our game.”

Having reflected on his conduct during the Somerset first innings at Cup Match, Dalin Richardson, the Rangers captain, threw his weight behind the campaign.

“I thought about my actions when given out at Cup Match and upon reflection, arguing with the umpires and showing dissent is not good for cricket,” Richardson said.

“It’s Important that we set an example for the youngsters watching us. I want to appeal to my fellow cricketers across the island — please look at how we react to decisions and just walk when given out.

“We have to accept the umpires’ decisions. We really hope that the ‘Just Walk’ campaign will help players to be more professional.”

Bascome is seeking to bring together all those involved in the game to speak with one voice.

“In the near future we are looking forward to encouraging all stakeholders to come on board with us,” he said.

“The cricket fraternity has to do something to enhance the spirit in which the game is being played. The behaviour we are seeing by players needs improving, and the only way to change it is to have open discussions and to hold players accountable.

“We as coaches must look at the spirit of cricket and make sure we are asking our players to check themselves.”