There will be no Crown & Anchor for the first round, at least, of the Eastern Counties series on July 17, while tickets will be sold online for the opening match between champions St David’s and Flatts at Sea Breeze Oval.

“The ECCA has decided to not facilitate the traditional Crown & Anchor set-up during the first round of the 2021 series,” the association said yesterday in a press release.

“We will advise if we are able to host and facilitate Crown & Anchor during the second round scheduled for August 14.”

The 2021 Eastern Counties series will be held as per the Large Group Exemption —Covid-19 SafeKey guidelines, which will see a maximum crowd size of 1,250 fans allowed into the ground, 50 per cent of the normal capacity at an indoor or outdoor setting.

That number will include hosts, organisers, staff, volunteers, players, coaches, officials, spectators and vendors. Other regulations include:

• The use of SafeKey is required for all attendees at any gathering of 275 persons or more

• Contact-tracing details must be collected from all attendees including full name, date and time of visit, phone and e-mail in case there is a positive case in attendance

• Proof of being fully vaccinated via a SafeKey or with a valid PRC test within 72 hours of the match date

• Valid ID

• Must be in possession of a mask

A new policy will see matches tickets sold first online via OnTrack at ontrackbda.com, with the remaining tickets being sold at the gate.

Ticket prices for the three matches on July 17, August 14 and 28 will be $20 for adults, with seniors and children (12 and under) paying $10.

The matches will again be broadcast on Hott 107.5 and FM89, with officials also aiming to offer a livestream of the match.

Reserved seating spots will go on sale tomorrow at Sea Breeze Oval starting at 9am. Persons wishing to purchase reserved spots for all three matches will be given first preference. Prices will remain from 2019 rates.