UK Government Announces £35 Million Investment in Grassroots Cricket

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced a £35 million investment in grassroots cricket facilities and programs to expand access to the sport in state schools. The investment aims to promote physical activity among young people and support the government’s goal of getting one million more young people active by 2030. The funding will facilitate the construction of 16 new cricket domes in cities hosting upcoming World Cup events and extend cricket programs to over 900,000 young people including those with special educational needs.

Additionally, £14 million will be allocated to charities promoting accessible cricket for children with disabilities and those from African and Caribbean backgrounds. The investment aligns with the government’s broader strategy to improve the nation’s health and fitness including significant funding for grassroots sports facilities and school sports programs. The announcement has been well-received by cricket stakeholders with ECB Chair Richard Thompson expressing enthusiasm for making cricket more inclusive and accessible.

England Men’s cricketer James Anderson and Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer also welcomed the investment emphasizing the importance of promoting physical activity and expanding access to sports facilities across communities.