Age to start:

Have-a-Go Cricket is a Cricket New Zealand initiative that delivers an introductory cricket program for children aged 5 to 8 years. Children are introduced to basic skills and the principles of cricket in a fun and safe environment.

Children up to college age can then graduate onto the Kiwi Cricket program. This is a games based program that builds on the introductory skills and principles learnt whilst undertaking the Have-A-Go program.

Boys and girls can begin playing for a team at their local cricket club from the age of five.

Rules of the game:

The basic rules of cricket are;

• A match is played between two teams with each team having eleven players (junior cricket teams sometimes have eight players). One player from each team is the designated captain.
• One team fields while the other team is the batting side.
• The fielding team bowls the cricket ball at the batsmen who tries to hit the ball with their bat. The fielding team is trying to get the batsmen out whilst the batting team is trying to score as many runs as they can without getting out.
• One bowler will bowl what is called ‘an over.’ On over consists of six balls. Off each delivery a batsmen can either not score or score 1 through to 6.
• If a ball is hit to the boundary along the ground it is worth four runs. If a ball is hit over the boundary it is worth six runs.
• Each batting team is allowed to lose 10 wickets before they must switch around and be the bowling team (or 7 wickets for an 8-a-side team).
• The object of the game is to score more runs than the opposing team.

Find the full list of the rules of cricket

Suitability:

Cricket is suitable for boys and girls to participate in from an early age. Children from the age of 5 years old can begin to learn cricket by participating in the Have-A-Go program.

The Have-A-Go program in conjunction with the Kiwi Cricket  program provides an excellent pathway for children into competitive cricket. There are many junior cricket clubs for both boys and girls to join and begin playing competitive games.

Cricket is a non contact sport but, for older children it is played with a hard cricket ball, so the appropriate protective clothing must be worn to ensure the safety of the children.

Cricket is a great way for children to learn to work together in a team environment whilst developing important physical and mental skills.

Sign up dates:

As cricket is a summer sport sign up dates for the season for clubs typically begin in late August. Contact your local club for specific registration details for the coming season. Even if the registration period has elapsed it is advised that you enquire as there may still be places in teams available for your child.

Sporting tips:

To successfully participate in cricket you require;

• Good hand/eye coordination
• Adequate ball skills, in particular throwing and catching
• Excellent mental application and concentration
• The ability to cope and concentrate in sometimes harsh summer conditions

Find out more about Cricket in your area