Long Sutton Cricket Club hope children are inspired by return of television matches

Coaches hope the recent return of cricket to free to air television can help to inspire the next generation of stars to take up the game.

England’s test match series in India was broadcast on Channel 4 - the first time red ball matches had been shown for free since the 2005 Ashes series.

Long Sutton Cricket Club is now gearing up to host an England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) AllStars training programme for girls and boys aged five to eight - and hopes that the sport’s extra exposure will encourage even more children to come forward.

As well as the recent tests on Channel 4, the BBC will be showing mens and womens matches in The Hundred - a new tournament designed to broaden cricket’s appeal.

The year then ends with the T20 World Cup in India and the Ashes test series in Australia - which could all help to further promote the sport in the eyes of young people.

LSCC’s Andy Crisp said: “Long Sutton Cricket Club are running AllStars for the fourth season. We are hoping with England cricket being on free TV and the World Cup being later this year, its a great opportunity for children to watch and pretend to be the heroes on the TV. “

The club also hopes to offer a chance for youngsters to embrace some sporting activity after a period in which the Covid restrictions have meant outdoor events have been limited.

Mr Crisp said: “With restrictions being relaxed a bit its also a great way for children to join us and get some fresh air and exercise. Not only that, it’s a fantastic way of making new friends and learning some skills of cricket in a fun atmosphere.”

The AllStars programme runs for eight Wednesdays, starting from May12. Children who sign up for the course receive a personalised shirt, a hat, bat, ball and ruck sack - and sessions are suitable for all skill levels.

Mr Crisp added: “We are hoping the AllStars catch the cricket bug and carry on through the age groups. We have a junior section at Long Sutton with ages nine to 15, of which some of the juniors are playing senior cricket and have also gone on to represent the county.”

To sign up, search AllStars cricket online or email Crisp5019@sky.com