A next generation of cricketers have a new opportunity to get involved in the game – and follow in the footsteps of heroes like Heather Knight and Ben Stokes.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (the ECB) have launched Dynamos Cricket to encourage boys and girls aged 8-11 to have fun and fall in love with cricket.
Dynamos Cricket is the second launch by the ECB, adding to the existing All Stars Cricket programme for 5-8 year olds.
There will be two programmes in May and July this summer, which will allow up to 35,000 more children to enjoy cricket this season.
Parents can find out more about Dynamos and sign up at dynamoscricket.co.uk.
What’s involved?
Up to 35,000 kids will take part in Dynamos Cricket in their local centres at one of two 6-12-week courses:
- During the summer term, beginning mid-May
- Over the school holidays alongside The Hundred
Each week, participants will develop new cricketing skills including batting, bowling and fielding. They will have the chance to play a fast-paced and exciting game of countdown cricket – a new format that mirrors The Hundred.
The programme is designed for children graduating from ECB’s All Stars Cricket programme for 5-8-year olds, but is also perfect for those who are new to the game.
What do children taking part receive?
- Kit: a New Balance Dynamos shirt with their name and number on the back
- Dynamos app: an app providing cricket tips, activities, and quizzes, alongside skills and tips from the stars of the Hundred so that they can practice at home and with their friends
- Money-can’t-buy experiences: the chance to win exclusive prizes and experiences around The Hundred such as being part of a guard of honour before play
- Topps Cricket Attax trading cards: Participants will receive packs of cards each week featuring some of the best players from The Hundred
How can people sign up?
Parents can find out more about Dynamos and register their children to take part at dynamoscricket.co.uk.
Parents can also sign up their 5-8 year olds for All Stars Cricket at allstarscricket.co.uk.
Cricket fun
Former England international and current Oval Invincibles player Laura Marsh said: “I’ve seen just how much fun Dynamos Cricket is. It’s great that so many children will have the opportunity to take up the game at such a young age.”
“I learnt so many lessons playing cricket – from teamwork and communication, to looking out for my friends in tough times.
“Cricket has made me stronger and more resilient as a person and is something I’d recommend to anyone.”
Clare Stokes said: “I’m always looking for new ways for my children to get active and having watched a session today, I know Layton and his friends will love it. The fast and fun format makes it perfect for kids of this age and parental involvement is encouraged so I got the chance to pick up a few skills too!”
England and Birmingham Phoenix star Pat Brown said: “Cricket taught me how to win and lose gracefully. Just as importantly, it helped me to make friends and to learn how to cope with pressure. These are great life skills and you’re never too young to learn them!”
Nick Pryde, ECB Director of Participation and Growth, said: “2020 promises to be another unforgettable year for the game with the launch of The Hundred and Dynamos Cricket.
“Dynamos is a great way for young people to experience for themselves just how exciting cricket can be. We hope thousands of children across England and Wales will fall in love with the game this summer.”