Cricket has a reputation as a builder of character and collective responsibility. It’s also a game that crosses the racial divides in Britain, and can help build bridges too. Without doubt, cricket is a good education outside the classroom!
Contrary to recent opinion, at the junior level, cricket has not been declining. In fact, research gained from the many youth cricket leagues around the country would suggest that it is ‘booming!’ The recent Ashes victory is only part of the story. For a number of years now many of the country’s hundreds of non-first class cricket clubs (i.e., not 'first class' county cricket clubs, such as Surrey, Yorkshire, Sussex, etc.,) have ploughed huge resources into strengthening their colts cricket sections, and in doing so have filled the gap caused by the lack of schools cricket, particularly within the so called, ‘state’ education sector. We have heard that a number of clubs up-and-down the country now have ‘waiting lists’ to join, such is the growing popularity of the game!
The clubs have not only made a marvellous job of introducing the game of cricket to boys and girls, they have given every child ‘a sporting chance’ to develop a love for the game of cricket and to bring enjoyment into the lives of young children from all backgrounds. Hopefully, this massive effort will lay the foundation for a lifetime interest in cricket and in turn, help make England the world's top cricketing nation.
So, you’re looking for fun and somewhere to play club cricket?
If you don’t play cricket at school, how can you find your nearest club? Simply follow the links and instructions that follow, and before long you'll be on the road to perfecting your cricketing skills. And who knows? You might just be taking the first steps on your way to Lord’s!
You will also find this help useful if you do play cricket at school and you want to play more. Indeed, your school may have established links with cricket clubs in your area; so, it’s worth asking your sports master or mistress to help you make contact. Your school could even do it for you!
If you're desperate to start playing the game after school but don't know where your local cricket club is, here’s some information that will help before you make a decision as to which club to join.
How much will is cost to join a club?
This varies, but on average subscriptions tend to cost between £30 - £50 a season, for each colt, depending much on where the club is situated and on the amount of cricket coaching facilities and number of match playing opportunities provided. In most cases, this subscription will include outdoor nets, coaching from the club coach and matches. Often, family membership is also available for a small additional fee.
When and where would coaching take place?
At the majority of clubs, coaching takes place on mid-week evenings, for a couple of hours from about 5.30pm., and often takes place at the club’s main grounds.
Are there any indoor nets in the winter?
Many clubs provide this facility, if not within their own grounds, then usually at a local sports hall. Indoor nets usually start from mid-January and will probably require a small payment for each session attended.
Do clubs play league cricket?
There is a tremendous amount of competitive junior cricket in the UK and many clubs enter age-group teams for league and cup competitions. Some clubs will enter teams from all their age groups; for example, U9s to U16s. Some clubs enter only one or two age groups. It really depends on a club’s resources. Because most league cricket concludes towards the end of July in the UK, thus being played mostly, during school term, the majority of matches are played on a Sunday morning, although occasionally you will find league matches held mid-week.
At what age can children join a club?
This depends on club policy and resources. Some clubs will take children as six-years old. Clubs attempt to be accommodating but much will depend upon a child’s physical and mental maturity.
What clothing should colts wear?
While attending coaching, clubs prefer that colts wear the ‘traditional’ white shirt, and cricket whites, (i.e. trousers,) or tracksuit bottoms. Footwear should be white trainers. Replica football and/or rugby shirts are frowned upon! When playing league matches for your club you will need the following: cricket whites, white shirt, cricket boots or white trainers. Many clubs now have shirts emblazoned with the club’s logo, which you will be required to wear for matches. The cost of these shirts is often subsidised, although you may have to pay a small amount as well. And NEVER forget to take and use your abdominal protection, often known as the ‘box’!
Do clubs cater for girl’s cricket?
In general, girls are welcome to join all clubs although some might not have a specific girls section. But some do! So please ask. If a club cannot provide for girl’s cricket they will be only too pleased to recommend the nearest girls cricket club. Or visit the ECB's site section: 'Women's Club Cricket Development Officers'
