Cricket

Cricket competitions have been designed to be inclusive, with easy adaptations that will help meet the needs of every pupil based on the purpose of the competition. For some children, running a specific inclusive competition that enables them to play alongside others with similar disabilities may be more appropriate. This will help build confidence and create a positive learning environment. Further detail is included within the Dynamos Schools resource pack.

Cricket formats cover both primary and secondary settings, and are fully inclusive for SEND pupils. The table below outlines the target age range for inter-school competition formats:

Formats, both skill-based and game play-based, are adaptable for indoor or outdoor space; due to the seasonal nature of the game, formats are targeted towards larger outdoor venues where multiple schools can take part.

Game play-based (Countdown Pairs or Chance to Compete at KS2/3/4) formats focus on 8-a-side where players can rotate roles. Schools are encouraged to engage a whole class by bringing multiple teams, and Countdown Pairs can be adapted to 6-a-side to enable this to happen much more easily. The Dynamos Schools pack (link above) outlines how to adapt the playing rules to facilitate smaller teams.

‘Softball’ versions of the game are also included within the School Games formats, which reduces the need for space and kit to play. For secondary school ages, there are hardball versions of Chance to Compete available if suitable.

Equipment needed

• Cricket bats (wooden or plastic)
• Rubber balls
• Plastic stumps
• Batting tees
• Cones / markers to mark out playing space
  
• Countdown Cricket app (download for free from Android or iOS app stores)

A brief history of cricket

The sport of cricket is believed to have originated in England during the medieval period as a children’s game. By the 19th century, the rules of cricket were refined and standardised, and by 1844, the first international match took place between the United States and Canada.

Today, cricket is played around the world. The most prolific competition is The Ashes, a biennial tournament played between England and Australia in which the winner holds possession of The Ashes urn until the next tournament.