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[Number4]

Our cricket association has been run for a very long time by men of a by gone era. It consists of approx 156 teams spanning 3 divisions with 7 grades in each division. The problem is the average age of players is growing which means they aren't attracting the younger generation.

Reasons for this is they haven't moved with the times and the changes e.g T20 is still a pie in the sky dream.

All games currently are played on a Saturday and consist of 40 overs per team and that's the way it has been for well before my time which is almost 30 years in the game

They are desperately trying to catch up with the times but I think fighting a losing battle.

My question is moving forward how do they change things to attract that younger generation again?

Have you guys in the UK come across any similar situation? I know most on here play T20 and a few different variations of the game so I was after some advice from people who have moved with the times and noticed any changes?

All advice and ideas greatly appreciated

[jamielsn15]

Speak with your local ECB development officer -they'll be based at the closest county cricket club - or let me know where you are and I can send contact details in a PM.  A lot of their work is based around increased participation, schools and clubs, but they will be able to advise.

I would also look at local schools - a constant influx of potential players year on year, at all age groups.  It means clubs getting out and liaising with schools and embedding school-community club links.  Player pathways and the new, young players become the lifeblood of any club.

In terms of leagues, they need to understand that their lack of development focus is killing the game at a local level.  If a number of clubs are able to approach them at a league meeting, highlighting their concerns, possibly with the support of the local cricket development officer, hopefully it can move forward.

The ECB are big on developing Last man Stands, which may be an option in addition to T20...

[procricket]

He is in Australia mate.

Yes if you look at any league I think over here as well the average age of cricketers has gone through the roof unfortunately the youth have so many different opportunity nowadays a day full of fielding might not be top priority at all.

I agree with the player pathway but I suspect the issue is not attracting new blood into most clubs but keeping players in the 15-21 age range is a hard thing to do.

Keeping good young players is not a hard thing to do but keeping the average joe is hard because who wants to field all day and maybe only get a bat or bowl when there so many more activity out there.

20/20 is a great way to keep people interested if your giving people a go and is taken in the right spirit as I find the biggest  waste is a mix of chasing skirt and either a lack of opportunity or lack of form.

[jamielsn15]

Apologies, that'll teach me for assuming!
the issue in most sports is retention of the age group you mention. I agree that shorter forms of cricket are the way forward. It's also about making it fun and constantly challenging the player-that will help to maintain interest.
maybe the clubs can organise a t20 league or cup competition with the support of the 40 over league? More variety and opportunity equals increased interest and something for everyone...

best of luck!

[Six Sixes Cricket]

Here is a link to a survey done this year. Maybe your associations could do something similar

http://www.somersetcricketboard.co.uk/sites/default/files/attachments/scb_report_0.pdf

[ProCricketer1982]

I can honestly say that if they made sat or sun cricket any less than 45 overs I'd probably quit playing. T20 is ok for evening midweek cricket when it's just a bit of fun but weekends is for proper cricket.

[jamielsn15]

Couldn't agree more, i did mean that midweek T20 is the way to go. I think every club that can should provide both to maximise opportunities and subsequently increase membership and participation.
i play T20 Tues and Thurs and 40/45 overs on Saturdays. The demographic around the hardcore can be very different and the club benefits from that. If the league wont set up a new format, then the teams should...

[GarrettJ]

Try a 15/15 competition with coloured clothing and a coloured ball

Try setting up a youth league or adding some development sides in the league, under 21 but allowed 2 ringers to make sure they behave themselves

[ProCricketer1982]

Couldn't agree more, i did mean that midweek T20 is the way to go. I think every club that can should provide both to maximise opportunities and subsequently increase membership and participation.
i play T20 Tues and Thurs and 40/45 overs on Saturdays. The demographic around the hardcore can be very different and the club benefits from that. If the league wont set up a new format, then the teams should...

That's cool, defo should have plenty of midweek T20 and host touring games as well if possible. They are usually great fun.