The Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 is currently underway and with the rise in popularity of the women’s game, we are seeing little signs of this slowing down. Our Wicketz programme provides the opportunity for girls to take part in cricket through local community hubs and as a result, we have seen a year-on-year increase in female participation.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is #BreakTheBias. Some of the women and girls involved with our Wicketz programme spoke about their feelings on the biases within sport, their experiences of being part of Wicketz and how it can inspire and empower more girls across the country to play cricket.

Wicketz is a cricket programme initially aimed at young people aged 8-19, living in areas with high levels of poverty. It provides year-round weekly cricket sessions as well as workshops that teach vital life skills. It breaks down barriers. With the support of partners such as the Home Office and police forces, it tackles some of the most challenging social issues faced by young people in the UK.

What is Wicketz?

Wicketz is a cricket programme for young people living in areas across the UK where opportunities to access regular sport is limited. By establishing sustainable community cricket hubs, we provide year-round weekly cricket sessions with a focus on breaking down barriers, developing crucial life skills, creating stronger communities and enabling brighter futures for those taking part.

How does it work?

Each Wicketz project has a dedicated development officer responsible for the running of multiple local hubs within the area. They work closely with the young people that come along to the sessions, many of whom are from hard-to-reach groups, including young offenders, refugees and excluded pupils. Girls often take part in less sport than boys but through the introduction of girls only hubs, workshops and residential festivals we are encouraging more girls to join, enjoy and benefit from Wicketz.

How does it help young people?

Through cricket, Wicketz aims to tackle local issues affecting young people and their communities. Alongside cricket coaching and games, the young people taking part have the chance to learn from role models, community leaders, local authorities and others. Specially designed workshops also boost well-being, social education, community awareness, promote positive life choices and develop new life skills.