ECB launches Dynamos Cricket to inspire kids aged 8-11

• The ECB has launched Dynamos Cricket, a new programme to inspire kids aged 8-11 to play cricket
• Dynamos Cricket is the latest launch by the governing body, building on the existing All Stars programme for 5-8-year-olds
• Two programmes in May and July will allow up to 35,000 more children to enjoy cricket this season
• Parents can find out more about Dynamos and sign-up at dynamoscricket.co.uk

The ECB takes its latest step to inspire the next generation of cricket players and fans today with the launch of Dynamos Cricket.

Dynamos will encourage boys and girls aged 8-11 to have fun and fall in love with the game. The programme is designed for children graduating from ECB’s All Stars Cricket programme for 5-8-year olds, but is also designed to welcome those who are new to the game.

Up to 35,000 kids will take part in Dynamos Cricket in their local centres at one of two 6-12-week courses:

• During the summer term, beginning mid-May
• Over the school holidays alongside The Hundred

Each week, participants will develop new cricketing skills including batting, bowling and fielding. They will have the chance to play a fast-paced and exciting game of countdown cricket – a new format that mirrors The Hundred.

Every child taking part will receive a New Balance Dynamos shirt with their name and number on the back. They will get access to a Dynamos app providing cricket tips, activities and quizzes, alongside skills and tips so that they can practice at home and with their friends as well as receiving packs of Topps Cricket Attax trading cards, featuring some of the best players from The Hundred.

Nick Pryde, the ECB’s Director of Participation and Growth, said: “2020 promises to be another unforgettable year for the game with the launch of The Hundred and Dynamos will give kids a chance to experience for themselves just how exciting cricket can be.

“Dynamos Cricket is a key part of our plans to grow the game in England and Wales and we hope that thousands of children will fall in love with the game this summer.”

England fast bowler James Anderson, Oval Invincibles spinner Laura Marsh, Birmingham Phoenix star Pat Brown and England Physical Disability cricketer and parent Liam Thomas were joined by Clare Stokes, the wife of England all-rounder Ben, at a special Dynamos Cricket taster session to launch the new programme.

Laura Marsh said: “I’ve seen today just how much fun Dynamos Cricket is. It’s great that so many children will have the opportunity to take up the game at such a young age.”

“I learnt so many lessons playing cricket – from teamwork and communication, to looking out for my friends in tough times. Cricket has made me stronger and more resilient as a person and is something I’d recommend to anyone.”

England and Birmingham Phoenix star Pat Brown said: “Cricket taught me how to win and lose gracefully. Just as importantly, it helped me to make friends and to learn how to cope with pressure. These are great life skills and you’re never too young to learn them!”

Clare Stokes said: “I’m always looking for new ways for my children to get active and having watched a session today, I know Layton and his friends will love it. The fast and fun format makes it perfect for the kids of this age and parental involvement is encouraged so I got the chance to pick up a few skills too!”

Parents can find out more about Dynamos Cricket and sign their kids up to take part at dynamoscricket.co.uk or for All Stars Cricket at allstarscricket.co.uk.

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Notes to Editor

What will Dynamos participants receive?

Thanks to the partnership with New Balance, every child taking part will receive a New Balance Dynamos shirt with their name and number on the back as well as access to the Dynamos App. 

Thanks to a new partnership with Topps, Dynamos participants will receive packs of Cricket Attax trading cards, featuring some of the best players from The Hundred, at their Dynamos sessions each week. Each pack will include a scannable card that can be used to be unlock exclusive skills content and challenges within the Dynamos app.

All Dynamos participants will also have the chance to apply for “money can’t buy” experiences linked to The Hundred, such as attending training sessions and taking part in Q&As with their heroes.

There will also be unique experiences for all Dynamos at Hundred games, including being part of a guard of honour before play.

When will Dynamos Cricket run?

The programme will run in two blocks:

• During the summer term, beginning mid-May
• Over the school holidays alongside The Hundred

The sessions themselves will run either on weekday evenings or on Saturdays and Sundays.

What skills will participants learn?

Children involved in Dynamos Cricket will learn or develop introductory cricketing skills including batting, bowling, catching and fielding, alongside skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives including teamwork, making friends, communication and learning how to win and to lose.

Who will run the sessions?

Sessions will be run by trained, DBS-checked volunteers, linked to the local Dynamos Cricket centre. We also encourage parents to get involved. All parents and guardians are asked during the registration process if they would be interested in helping out during the programme. Parents who volunteer will be supported to help them get involved.