Chance to Shine works closely with the recreational game and other ECB Charity Partners to ensure a joined-up, effective approach to supporting young people through cricket.
A key example of this collaboration is our relationship with the MCC Foundation (MCCF), which aligns closely with Chance to Shine programmes to create clear and free-to-access progression opportunities for talented young cricketers.
Chance to Shine plays a vital role in inspiring children in primary schools to develop a lifelong love of cricket. We currently work in around a quarter of all state primary schools in England and Wales, with a focus on those from under-served communities. Our work supports pupils not only to enjoy cricket at school, but to continue playing within their local area.
For children who face barriers to accessing traditional cricket clubs, our free, weekly Street cricket clubs provide regular opportunities to play softball and tape-ball cricket right on their doorstep.
This is where our partnership with the MCC Foundation is especially impactful. Through careful planning and coordination, Chance to Shine works closely with MCCF to identify and nurture talent within our Street cricket programme, supporting young people to access their nearest MCCF Hub. This enables promising players to develop their hard-ball skills and enter formal talent pathways.
Currently, 143 Street cricket clubs sit within 5 miles of an MCCF Hub, and many young people continue to play Street cricket alongside attending their local Hub. Coaches often work across both environments, providing continuity and supporting smooth transitions for players.
The charities also work together in the competitions space, with Chance to Compete offering state schools an accessible first step into competitive cricket and a natural progression towards the MCC Foundation’s Stokes Knight Cup, where Chance to Shine serves in an advisory role.
Kate Stephens, Chief Executive of Chance to Shine, said: “For young people to thrive in cricket – and for us to break down barriers for those who have historically lacked opportunities – the cricketing world has to come together. Our work with the MCC Foundation is a prime example of how strong relationships, clear remits and careful planning can open up the game to more children and increase our impact in communities across the country. There is so much more that can be done, and we’re excited to develop this relationship further to help make cricket one of the most inclusive sports in the UK.”
