fitnessASSIST

As 2010 drew to a close, the country was gripped by Ashes fever. England dominated Australia on their way to recording a 3-1 series victory, their first on Australian soil since 1986.

The manner of England’s success, and the huge amount of publicity it generated, has left cricket clubs up and down the country hoping for an influx of new players as interest in the game soars.

While England remain in Australia seeking to follow up their Ashes success with victory in the one day series, professional county sides and grassroots clubs are preparing for the 2011 season.

Tom Richardson, chief executive of Gloucestershire, recently told the county’s website that he was predicting an increase in the number of people playing cricket this summer.

“England’s success will also encourage more youngsters to take up the game at grass roots level and, as a club, along with the Gloucestershire Cricket Board, we are very much switched on to giving them the opportunity to do so,” he told the county’s website.

“When we won the Ashes in 2005 it was clearly noticeable that the interest in cricket in this country increased and particularly the number of people wanting to play.

“Together with the Gloucestershire Cricket Board, we are very active in encouraging children to take up the game, whether it is through our age group teams, various coaching courses or just coming in and having a hit while county matches are going on.

England’s crushing victory means that the future for grassroots cricket is very bright. Cricket bosses will be hoping that youngsters hoping to emulate the likes of Jimmy Anderson and Alastair Cook will develop into the next generation of Ashes heroes.

In order to capitalise on the fresh interest in cricket, it is vital that clubs are able to provide new players with a safe and enjoyable experience.

fitnessASSIST supply a wide range of training aids that enable coaches to devise fun, effective sessions for newcomers. We also have a wide range of sports injury management products that can help prevent injuries occurring and, if an injury is sustained, that it can be treated properly. 

For more information about taking up cricket or to find your nearest club, visit www.play-cricket.com.