Bolton & Blackburn Crowned Street Cricket Regional Champions
Across two days of high-energy competition, 20 teams from Blackburn, Preston, Leeds, Bolton and Manchester came together to represent their communities and showcase the best of Street cricket.
Bolton Under 15s took the title on Thursday, with Blackburn Under 12s following on Friday after another closely fought competition. Played in the fast-paced Street20 format just 20 balls per side, matches were intense throughout, with several decided by dramatic Super Overs.
Matches were played in Street20 format, with just 20 balls per side creating an intense environment where every run counted. Several games went right down to the wire and were decided by Super Overs, adding to the drama and ensuring excitement for players and spectators alike.
The event highlighted the strength of the Chance to Shine Street programme, with players demonstrating confidence, teamwork and creativity developed through weekly community sessions. Supported by their local Street coaches, teams showcased a wide range of skills, from powerful hitting to inventive use of indoor spaces.
Girls’ teams representing Blackburn also made a significant impression across the two days, securing multiple victories and performing with confidence, skill and cohesion. Their performances highlighted the continued growth of the girls’ game within Street cricket and the positive impact of increasing access to inclusive opportunities.
The Regional Finals formed part of a wider programme of half‑term activity that saw more than 300 young people take part in cricket sessions across Lancashire. Participants travelled in from surrounding areas, including Yorkshire, highlighting the growing reach of Street cricket and the appetite for inclusive, community‑based opportunities.
Greg Pennington, Cricket Development Manager (Inclusion), said:
"The Chance to Shine Street Regionals are always dates we really look forward to in Lancashire, and we’re hugely grateful to our Street Coaches for their flexibility in moving the events and supporting a new venue.
The competitive nature of the games brought Street clubs together and provided a brilliant showcase of their cricket and the quality of the weekly sessions.
Seeing our team deliver meaningful activity across multiple venues has been a real highlight as we head into the outdoor season. We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who shared their time, insight and feedback, with 156 surveys completed to help shape our future work."
Chance to Shine Street continues to engage thousands of young people through free, accessible cricket sessions in underserved communities, clubs run weekly, all year round, in sports halls, parks, youth clubs and community spaces. Sessions are shaped by the young people themselves, whether they want to compete, develop skills or simply enjoy playing with friends. While most sessions are mixed, many areas also offer girls‑only opportunities to ensure accessibility for all.
With more than 300 clubs across England, Scotland and Wales, the programme continues to build confidence, skills and connections, showing that Street cricket is more than just a game; it’s a pathway to opportunity and belonging.