Grassroots clubs to fling open their doors during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup

Cricket clubs and communities across England and Wales are set to join in the fun of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup thanks to the Cricket World Cup Club Family Days on 7-9 June.

On the same weekend that England face Bangladesh and India play Australia, clubs will be flinging open their doors to welcome local players, families and volunteers as part of the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) aim to engage one million kids over the Men’s Cricket World Cup.

These Family Days will work to help connect clubs and local communities and engage future players and fans, getting kids involved in the game and to help clubs showcase themselves.

Activities will include kids coaching and taster sessions for everyone, women's and girls’ soft ball cricket, and some clubs will be showing World Cup matches live.

Clubs have also had the chance to apply for an ECB grant of up to £1,000. The fund is aimed at helping clubs digitise their clubhouses through the installation of new broadband and Wi-Fi or to upgrade their catering facilities.

Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer said:

“We are calling all cricket and sports fans to get behind this weekend in what will be a really fun day for families across the country.

“The Cricket World Cup Clubs initiative is a great way to celebrate the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and an unforgettable summer of cricket. Your local club will be the best place to share this great event with family and friends.”

ECB announced the date for the weekend with a video featuring former England stars Michael Vaughan, Phil Tufnell and Ebony Rainford-Brent.

Leigh Cricket Club in Lancashire are one of the thousands of clubs taking part. They will be celebrating in style with a match against a special PCA Masters team featuring a host of former England players.

As part of the initiative, clubs are nominating a ‘Champion’; one member from their club, to coordinate the activities taking place at the events, with prizes on offer for the champions.

Get in touch with your local club to find out more about what they have planned. To find your local cricket club click here.