Merry Christmas on behalf of the ECB

Despite challenges in certain parts of the game, recreational cricket has emerged from the COVID pandemic in good health. 2022 was hugely successful on the field.

Over 191k fixtures were played across all formats, meaning this year, more people than ever before took the opportunity to play cricket their way. Couple this with 100k kids participating in National Programmes, c.30% of whom were girls, and it shows the potential for future growth remains strong.

Off the field, £12m was invested into the network across a wide range of projects, 1,051 clubs delivered their own Get Set Weekend ahead of the season and congratulations to the 1,824 clubs that achieved Clubmark status this year. League administrators helped to roll out new General Conduct Regulations in the 29 Premier Leagues to help standardise disciplinary processes across the country. The Safe Hands Management System now has 2,800 active profiles and 40k+ volunteers at these clubs are providing safe, high-quality experiences to their members.

Inflation, high fuel prices and media scrutiny will remain obstacles to overcome in the New Year, but we’re confident that with your unwavering dedication and commitment, recreational cricket will continue to connect communities and improve lives in 2023.

From everyone in the Participation and Growth team at the ECB, we’d like to thank you for your contribution to delivering the 2022 season. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Best Wishes

ECB, Participation and Growth Team