In an exciting development for cricket lovers, the ECB has unveiled the Grass Pitch Improvement Fund, aimed at addressing inequalities in access to quality cricket pitches across England and Wales.
This initiative promises to transform the landscape of grassroots cricket, particularly benefiting women and girls, diverse communities, disability cricket, and those in lower socio-economic areas.
A Big Step Towards Inclusivity in Cricket
With the robust support of Sport England and National Lottery funding, the ECB is set to inject £5m into grassroots cricket over the next three years.
The initial £1m, available from 2024, will empower around 250 clubs and cricket organisations to enhance their facilities, thereby inviting more participants to the sport.
This initiative is a cornerstone of the ECB’s broader ambition to make cricket the most inclusive team sport in the UK.
By focusing on schools and areas most in need, the ECB aims to elevate facilities to a standard that ensures safety and enjoyment for all players.
Identifying and Addressing the Needs
The ECB will work closely with County Cricket Boards to pinpoint areas requiring improvement.
Additionally, clubs and cricket organizations can submit expressions of interest to receive funding.
Successful applicants will benefit from grants that will enable them to upgrade their playing surfaces and equip them with the necessary tools for future ground management.
Bruce Cruse, the ECB’s Director of Facilities & Infrastructure, expressed his enthusiasm about the fund:
“We are delighted to announce the launch of the Grass Pitch Improvement Fund today which is another step on our journey to become the most inclusive team sport in the UK.
This fund is designed for those pitches in need of real help, to invest in them and improve them, making them safe and enjoyable for a game of cricket.”
Aiming for Broader Participation
Phil Smith, Executive Director of Partnerships at Sport England, highlighted the fund’s alignment with their 10-year strategy, Uniting the Movement:
“The ECB’s aim to get different kinds of people – including women and girls, disabled people, and people from diverse communities – playing cricket reflects the heart of Uniting the Movement, Sport England’s 10-year strategy.
Our ambition is for everyone to have the opportunity to get active and play the sport they choose, regardless of who they are or where they live.
Improving local cricket facilities and pitches will give more people the chance to get involved and enjoy the incredible benefits of sport within their communities.”
How to Get Involved
Cricket clubs and organisations interested in applying for the fund can find more details at ECB Club Funding.
This fund not only promises to uplift the quality of cricket pitches but also aims to foster a more inclusive and active cricketing community across the nation.