Inclusion Festivals Bring Cricket to Communities

Cricket has been brought even closer to local communities this season, with Inclusive Cricket Festivals successfully piloted in Blackburn and Manchester, showcasing the variety of cricket opportunities now available across the region.

Following consultation with community groups, the festivals were designed to highlight the full breadth of programmes delivered across Lancashire, particularly those hosted in community settings or featuring adapted formats of the game.

Events held at QEGS, Blackburn and South West Manchester Cricket Club gave participants the chance to experience a range of cricket activities first-hand. From trying out new formats to meeting local coaches, attendees also received information about how to get involved in free community and inclusion cricket sessions running throughout the year.

Funded by the ECB Cricket Cities Programme, the festivals featured an exciting mix of showcases and competitions, including:

• Open Age Tapeball Cricket Competition, supported by ECB Cricket Cities Development Officers and coaches
• Disability Cricket Showcase, delivered by Lord’s Taverners Super 1s coaches
• ACE Cricket Programme Showcase, led by the ACE Development Officer
• Junior Tapeball Cricket, delivered by Lancashire Cricket Foundation Development Officers
• Women’s Softball Cricket Taster Sessions, run by LCF Development Officers and coaches

The Inclusive Cricket Festivals underline Lancashire Cricket Foundation’s commitment to ensuring that cricket is a game for all.