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Welcome to August’s Edition of The Cricket Collective Bulletin
As we move into the final weeks of the recreational season, there is much to reflect on and celebrate across the game. Throughout the summer, clubs, volunteers, players and leagues have demonstrated the resilience, commitment and community spirit that underpin cricket. From delivering thousands of matches and programmes to creating welcoming environments for people of all ages and backgrounds, your impact continues to be felt in communities across England and Wales.
The scale of that impact is evident in our numbers. In July, 52,216 recreational cricket fixtures were played, the highest ever monthly total since records began.
In this edition, you’ll find resources from our “Close of Play” campaign to help your club finish the season strongly, alongside opportunities to raise valuable funds through the Toyota Good For Cricket Prize Draw. We’re also sharing updates on the new KP Snacks Everyone In Fund and Sport England’s retention of its statutory consultee status, helping to safeguard cricket facilities for future generations.
As always, our game is powered by the passion, dedication and generosity of volunteers. Whether you coach a junior team, score matches, prepare pitches, manage social media, serve on a committee or simply lend a hand when needed, your contribution makes a lasting difference. Thank you for everything you do to make cricket happen in your club and community.
With my continued best wishes.
Leshia Hawkins
Managing Director, Recreational Game
Welcome from Kate Aldridge
Welcome to the August edition of the Raising The Game Bulletin.
As the season begins to draw to a close, this month’s stories showcase cricket at its very best: bringing people together, opening doors and making a lasting difference in communities across England and Wales. From the launch of the KP Snacks Everyone In Fund, which will support the Cricket Cities Programme over the next three years, to the Festival of Disability Cricket at Lord’s, we’re seeing the power of cricket reach further than ever before.
That impact is reflected on the pitch too. July 2026 was the strongest month for played fixtures since records began, with an incredible 52,216 matches taking place. It’s a fantastic milestone and a reminder that more people are choosing to play, volunteer and connect through cricket.
Behind those record-breaking participation figures are the people making cricket happen in communities up and down England and Wales. This edition celebrates some of the inspiring work taking place across the network, from walking and seated cricket programmes, to new opportunities for female umpires. Together, these stories highlight the positive impact that clubs, foundations and community partners continue to make, both on and off the field.
Best wishes,
Kate Aldridge
Director of Business Operations and EDI, ECB
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL BULLETIN
The Bee-lieve Foundation, an emotional wellbeing charity supporting children and young people aged 4–24, will host a special charity cricket festival at The Sports Ground, Woodbridge Road, Guildford, on Sunday 6 September 2026, raising vital funds to support children and young people’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.
The headline event will see the Bee-lieve XI take on the Lashings World XI in a T20 match from 2pm, with cricketing legends and former international players taking part. Confirmed guests include Saj Mahmood, Monty Panesar, Henry Blofeld, Geoff Miller and Adam Hollioake, with further cricketing legends and special guests still to be announced.
The festival will offer a full day of entertainment, including a Family Fun Zone from 10.30am, a pre-match lunch and a Bee-lieve Gala Dinner from 7pm.
As part of the event, 11 primary school children will also have the chance to become official team mascots, walking alongside a team of former international players before the match and wearing specially designed Bee-lieve mascot kit.
To apply, children should write a short letter explaining why they would like to be selected as a Bee-lieve mascot, including their age and school. Parents or carers should email entries to beelievefoundation@gmail.com.
Entries must be submitted by 25 July, with 11 lucky winners selected to enjoy a unique experience at this special day of cricket and fundraising.
The excitement of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 is coming to Sandhurst Cricket Club! As part of the nationwide “Catch the Spirit” celebrations, Sandhurst Cricket Club is inviting families and young cricket fans to join a fun-filled evening of cricket, activities and community spirit.
Join us on:
📅 Wednesday 24th June 2026
⏰ From 6:00pm
📍 Sandhurst Cricket Club
This special event is perfect for girls aged 6–13, but all families are welcome. Whether you’re already passionate about cricket or just looking for a fun evening out, everyone can get involved.
🏏 Watch England take on West Indies live on the big screen
Cheer on the teams and enjoy the atmosphere of the Women’s T20 World Cup with friends, family and fellow cricket fans.
🍔 Great food & refreshments
Enjoy delicious refreshments and a BBQ while soaking up the match-day atmosphere.
⭐ Try cricket coaching & mini games
Have a go at exciting cricket activities designed for all abilities — whether it’s your first time picking up a bat or you’re already playing.
🎨 Fun WT20-themed arts and crafts
Get creative with cricket-inspired activities for children and families.
The Catch the Spirit campaign is all about bringing communities together and celebrating the energy, excitement and inclusivity of women’s cricket. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the World Cup atmosphere locally, meet new people and discover the fun side of cricket.
Best of all — entry is free!
Bring your family, invite your friends and come along for an evening of cricket, food, fun and community at Sandhurst Cricket Club.
👉 Register your place here:
https://ecb.clubspark.uk/CricketWorldCupEvent/sandhurstberks/EventsV2/Summary/0a2f3536-d7ab-4186-89a2-df0cbcb77306
Catch the Spirit. Catch the Cricket. Catch the fun! 🏏
Lord’s, London – June 2026 – Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and The Cricketer have officially launched the Community Cricket Heroes 2026 campaign, calling on the cricket community to nominate the volunteers, coaches and organisers whose dedication keeps grassroots cricket thriving across the United Kingdom.
Now in its fourth year, the campaign celebrates the unsung heroes who make a lasting impact in their local clubs and communities. Since its inception, 33 Community Cricket Heroes have been recognised and invited to Lord’s as guests of the MCC President, enjoying a day of international cricket from some of the most prestigious seats in the ground.
Launched during Volunteers’ Week and coinciding with the first men’s international Test match of the summer at Lord’s, the initiative shines a spotlight on the people whose commitment and passion help sustain the game at community level.
A panel selected by MCC will review nominations and choose individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to cricket, whether through coaching, volunteering, club leadership or efforts to expand participation in the sport.
Among last year’s winners was Samreen Begum, recognised for her work creating opportunities for women and girls to play cricket in the West Midlands.
Reflecting on her experience, Begum said:
“It was an amazing experience to be able to come to Lord’s as a Community Cricket Hero and watch the game from the President’s Suite. The view from there was incredible.
“Regardless of the title that comes with my work, I am more than happy to keep on helping young girls, as I was once in their shoes, to access opportunities they may not otherwise have had and to build pathways for them to play the sport they love.”
Another 2025 winner, Len Enoch, was honoured for his contribution as President of Wanstead and Snaresbrook Cricket Club.
Enoch said:
“I was overwhelmed, and to be honest a little embarrassed, by the many congratulatory messages from club members and the wider cricket community.
“Everyone involved with the game has a story to tell. We must not lose sight of cricket’s unique magic. Lord’s is a symbol of that – a national treasure and a reminder that every cricket lover owns a piece of the game.”
MCC President Ed Smith encouraged cricket supporters across the country to submit nominations for those making a difference behind the scenes.
“Year four of our MCC Community Cricket Heroes campaign begins today, and once again we are asking the cricket community to help us find its unsung champions,” said Smith.
“Whether it’s a coach transforming lives in a state school, a volunteer who has kept a club together through the toughest of times, or someone growing the women’s and girls’ game from the ground up, we want to hear their story. Please don’t let your hero go unrecognised.”
Huw Turbervill, Editor of The Cricketer, added:
“The Cricketer team always enjoys partnering with MCC on this campaign. Each year we’re inspired by the incredible winners who dedicate so much of their time to helping others fall in love with cricket. We look forward to seeing who emerges this year to earn a well-deserved day at Lord’s.”
The successful nominees will be invited to Lord’s later this year, where they will be celebrated for their contribution to grassroots cricket.
Nominations for the MCC Community Cricket Heroes 2026 campaign are now open and will close at 23:59 BST on 15 July 2026.
To nominate a Community Cricket Hero, visit: www.lords.org/heroes
Finchampstead, Berkshire — Finchampstead Cricket Club has announced an exciting community sporting event as it prepares to host a Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) Benefit Match, bringing an Ex‑England Legends Team to the village for a day of cricket, family entertainment, and fundraising.
Taking place on FRIDAY JUNE 12th, the day will feature a full programme designed to appeal to cricket fans, families, and supporters of grassroots sport. The highlight of the event will be the Finchampstead XI vs. Ex‑England Legends match, scheduled for 3:30pm, giving spectators a rare chance to see former national players back in action.
The festivities begin at 12:00pm with a marquee lunch and exclusive auction, offering guests the opportunity to support the club while bidding on premium items and experiences. From 3:30pm, families can enjoy a vibrant afternoon including a BBQ, ice cream, raffle, and live music.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate cricket, and support the development of the sport at a local level,” said a spokesperson for Finchampstead Cricket Club. “We’re proud to welcome former England greats to our ground and create a day that offers something for everyone.”
The event is open to ages 8 and above, with all abilities and levels of cricket experience welcome.
Local businesses and supporters are invited to get involved through a range of sponsorship and fundraising opportunities, including:
Book a table
Sponsor an element of the day (e.g., BBQ or ice cream tent)
Advertise in the event programme
Donate prizes for the auction
The event is proudly hosted by Nirvana Spa.
For more information or to register interest, contact: Phil — 07786 231625 Email: phillip_amy@hotmail.com Website: nirvanaspacollection.co.uk/spa/finchampstead-cricket
Amateur cricket coaches and educational professionals are invited to attend a free, full-day Cricket Coaching Masterclass on Tuesday 12 May 2026 at Westonbirt School.
Running from 9:00am to 5:00pm, the event will combine expert-led theory with practical, on-field coaching. The morning session, delivered by Stuart Barnes, will focus on bowling fundamentals, age-appropriate coaching techniques, and performance analysis, with an interactive format encouraging discussion and questions.
In the afternoon, attendees will observe and engage in live coaching sessions with youth players across U14–U18 age groups. The practical programme will explore session design, skills development, and applied coaching, with opportunities for feedback and shared learning.
Free of charge and including lunch and refreshments, the Masterclass aims to equip coaches with clear, transferable skills to enhance their impact in both school and club cricket environments.
Places are limited, and early booking is recommended. – CLICK HERE
A truly historic fixture was played out in front of Berkshire Cricket Chair Jayne Haines when Holyport played host to a Walking Cricket fixture against The Chelsea Pensioners.
Holyport were founded in 1844, being one of the oldest cricket clubs in the UK, but for a change were not the oldest team taking part, with the residents of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, founded in 1682.
Bedecked in their custom-made shirts that mirror their traditional red uniform, the Pensioners lost the toss and were invited to bat by their hosts.
At the halfway stage of their 16 over allocation, the Pensioners were cruising at 78-0, but a strong fightback by Holyport saw them take seven wickets and restrict the Pensioners to a score of 117. Chelsea skipper Gerry Corns led the from the front, top scoring with 24 from 18 balls, whilst the Holyport fightback was led by Jane Dennett (2-12) and Mike Preedy (2-16).
A sumptuous spread was then enjoyed by the participants and spectators, a deliberate tactic to slow those Pensioners down in the field with that extra portion of Daphne’s cakes enjoyed!
An even contest then ensued with Holyport, inspired by top scorer left-handed opener Mike Preedy’s 25 from 13 balls, reaching a score of 75 after 8 overs.
Could Chelsea peg back Holyport in the same way? It didn’t seem possible with the Holyport score on a winning 121 after 14 overs.
However, with five runs lost for each wicket to fall, all was not lost. Ex-Hurley player Nally Fernando only conceded two runs from the 15th over, to leave Holyport five runs in front coming into the final over.
The exciting final over of the game!
The Pensioners opted for Pete Rowlands (2-12) to bowl the final over to Holyport captain Tony Davies and Jane Dennett. With two scored off the first ball taking Holyport into a seven run lead, a rotund lady could be heard warming up, but a cooly taken caught & bowled from the second ball brought Chelsea right back into the contest. But with a two from the third ball, Holyport went back to a lead of five. Two dots were then played out leaving a last ball thriller, Chelsea requiring a wicket from the final delivery for a tie.
Rowland bowled, Dennett prodded forward nervously, the ball looped up off the bat, but short of mid on and Rowlands unable to negotiate a path from his follow through around the backing up Davies, seeing the ball land safely on the grass.
A five run win for Holyport but undoubtedly, Walking Cricket was the winner!
A thoroughly enjoyable morning played in an excellent spirit and both sides look forward to making this a regular fixture in the future.
Meanwhile, Holyport are preparing for their North Yorkshire tour in early June, before the inaugural Berkshire Walking Cricket Festival at Purley-on-Thames later that month.
Clubs interested in launching their own walking cricket section are encouraged to contact Chris Baker at Berkshire Cricket via chris.baker@berkshirecricket.org
The Holyport Walking Cricket squad with Jayne Haines, Chair of Berkshire Cricket
The Berkshire Cricket Officials Association (BCOA), part of the ECB ACO South Central Region, is inviting new and existing officials to join and develop their umpiring or scoring skills.
For more information and to join CLICK HERE
Three membership options are available:
Membership provides training, support, and a clear pathway into ECB-sanctioned cricket.
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Kylie White’s recent achievements represent a remarkable “hat trick” of success in cricket officiating. She has progressed from recreational cricket in Queensland to officiating at the highest level of professional women’s domestic cricket, having been appointed by Cricket Australia. During her debut season, she officiated both on-field and as a fourth umpire in the Women’s Big Bash League and the Women’s National Cricket League, marking an impressive entry into elite competition.
In addition to her success in Australia, Kylie continues to officiate in England during the summer, primarily through appointments with the ECB. Despite her demanding schedule, she still finds time to support local cricket, including matches for Berkshire ACO, the Thames Valley Cricket League, and Berkshire U18 Girls, where her presence is always warmly received.
Her achievements are further highlighted by her recent selection to the Women’s National Panel, confirming her growing reputation at the top level of the game. She is also on track to become Berkshire’s first umpire to gain elite-level recognition in both England and Australia.
The most notable milestone, however, is her recognition as Queensland Match Official of the Year, awarded at a prestigious ceremony. This honour reflects the significant impact she has made in a short period and has drawn widespread praise, with national figures describing the news as “incredible” and widely celebrated among her peers.
Overall, Kylie White’s journey is not only a personal success story but also an inspiration, demonstrating the opportunities available in cricket officiating through dedication, skill, and commitment.
Jamie Reeder, a Master’s student at the University of East Anglia, is currently conducting a research study exploring the role of performance analysis and the impact it has on ECB-qualified coaches and their coaching practice.
The study aims to better understand how performance analysis is used within cricket coaching and how it influences decision-making, player development, and overall coaching effectiveness. Insights gathered will contribute to ongoing academic research and may help inform future coaching practices within the game.
ECB-qualified coaches are invited to take part in a short online survey. Participation is entirely voluntary, and all responses will remain anonymous. The survey will outline the purpose of the research, the expected time commitment, participants’ rights, and how data will be securely stored and used.
Participants will also have the option to express interest in a follow-up interview to further explore their experiences and perspectives.
Those interested in contributing to this research can access the survey via the link below:
https://forms.office.com/e/zVkXvh1Wai
Your support and participation would be greatly appreciated in helping to advance understanding of performance analysis within cricket coaching.
Crowthorne and Crown Wood Cricket Club (CCWCC) offers a comprehensive, three-tier pathway designed to make cricket accessible and rewarding for women and girls of all skill levels. The Home Counties Women’s League (Hardball) As the club’s premier competitive tier, the Women’s 1st XI competes at a high regional level. Focus: High-performance play, tactical precision, and technical excellence. 2. The Development XI & Super 8s This tier serves as the critical bridge between junior/softball cricket and the full hardball game. Format: Uses “Super 8s” (pairs scoring), ensuring players aren’t “out” after one ball. 3. The “Coyotes” (Softball Cricket) The club’s fastest-growing section, the Coyotes focus on accessibility and the social side of sport. Culture: Highly social, participating in regional Berkshire Cricket Festivals that blend cricket with a carnival atmosphere.
For More information contact – womenscricket@ccwcc.info
BBF ACADEMY is a growing brand that offers cricket and football coaching within the Bracknell area. We currently represent Bracknell Cricket Club and have been coaching there throughout the winter months and also at a local primary school. Our ambition is to grow bigger and offer our unique training methods to more eager young cricketers across the region. I am a EBC Level 2 coach and have plenty of experience both coaching and playing the game and am eager to share my knowledge with those looking to enhance their coaching skills. Please kindly contact me if interested and we can discuss requirements, hourly payment and more around the cricketing scene.
CONTACT – Bbfcricketacademy@gmail.com
🎟️ Tickets for all fixtures with our friends at Hampshire Cricket are now on general sale — and your summer of cricket starts right here.
From big-hitting Blast nights to classic red-ball rivalries and thrilling one-day contests, there’s something for every cricket fan.
Secure your seats, bring your crew, and get ready for an unforgettable season.
Berks ACO is delighted to announce that Kylie White, a Berkshire Umpire, has graduated from
recreational cricket in Queensland to officiating top level, professional women’s domestic cricket
appointed by Cricket Australia (CA). Kylie, a dual, Australian-British national, officiates in both
England and Australia. Sydney born, to British parents, Kylie has enjoyed and excelled as a
cricketer in England with highly regarded Gunnersbury WCC.
Kylie is based in Queensland’s Gold Coast, working and developing talent in QLD State cricket.
Her commitment and ability in the State recreational game led to her selection to officiating
professional cricket at both State and National level. This is her debut season, officiating both on-
field and as 4th umpire in the Women’s Big Bash League (T20 WBBL) and the Women’s National
Cricket League (50 over WNCL).
During the English summer, Kylie is in England, principally as an umpire on ECB appointments,
but has found time to take occasional Berks ACO and Thames Valley Cricket League matches
when her schedule permits and is always welcomed when umpiring Berkshire U18 Girls. Kylie is
pursuing a National Panel appointment, on the Women’s Pathway, for the 2026 season. She has
made the selection list for ECB interview at the end of this month and everyone at Berks ACO is
supporting her aim of becoming the County’s first umpire to achieve selection in both countries.
This document is intended to provide information for clubs, players, parents, coaches and umpires on how to recognise, manage and return to play from concussion in cricket.
These guidelines are for people of all ages participating in recreational cricket, including disabled people. However, where impairment-specific issues arise further advice should be sought.