All Stars Cricket returns for 2018

Via ECB

The ECB's programme to inspire the next generation of cricketers will run in over 2,000 clubs across England and Wales this summer.

All Stars Cricket, the ECB's programme to inspire the next generation of 5-8 year olds, is back with over 2,000 clubs across England and Wales taking part this summer.

37,000 children enjoyed the ground-breaking first year of All Stars Cricket and 2018 looks to be even bigger and better with 20,000 signed up with more than six weeks remaining until the programme begins in mid-May.

All Stars Cricket is all about ensuring that kids and their families have a great first experience of the game down at their local club. Parents can register their children now via allstarscricket.co.uk to ensure they have a summer full of great moments.

Year two of the programme kicked off at Edgbaston Cricket Ground with 100 local participants, many from nearby Kings Heath Cricket Club, enjoying a mass All Stars Cricket session.

They were joined by current and former stars including England white-ball Captain Eoin Morgan, World Cup winning wicketkeeper Sarah Taylor and former England internationals Isa Guha and Michael Vaughan.

The players also faced a press conference with a difference as the kids quizzed their heroes in an event hosted by BBC CBeebies presenter and All Stars Cricket Ambassador Ben Cajee.

Matt Dwyer, ECB Director of Participation and Growth, said:

The fact that 20,000 parents have already signed up their kids for All Stars Cricket is incredibly encouraging. We are introducing a new generation of cricketers to the game and that starts with a great first experience at their local club. We will follow that up by introducing formats and ways to play to ensure that young people are having a quality, fun game every time they play."

Eoin Morgan added:

The first time you experience the game is a moment you will never forget. Tens of thousands of kids have that to look forward to and I can't wait to see hundreds of them at England games over the summer."

Jo Malcolm, a volunteer at Kings Heath Cricket Club, said:

All Stars Cricket has had a massive impact on our club. We've used it as an opportunity to engage with the local community and rejuvenate our club by growing the youth section. It was an amazing experience and it was great to see the enjoyment on the kids' faces every week. We can't wait for this year."

ENDS