New helmet safety standards are set to be introduced in professional cricket in New Zealand next summer, but unlike in England, the wearing of helmets is set to remain optional.

Following in the footsteps of England and Australia, NZC is working through a wide-ranging health and safety review into all aspects of the sport. Professional players have been surveyed, while others in the community game, like clubs and schools, have also been polled about potential changes.

In the next couple of months NZC will announce their stance on the new regulations, which will come into play for the country’s domestic and international players before likely being adopted at lower levels down the track.

In the wake of the tragic death of Australian batsman Phillip Hughes in 2014, safety measures have been ramped up.