intercricket manual - Ecb - England and Wales Cricket Board

Introduction 

Introduction to Inter Cricket 

Inter Cricket is a new format of the game, created by the England and Wales Cricket Board, 

to bridge the gap between Kwik Cricket and hardball cricket. 

Inter Cricket enables both boys and girls to learn about and experience the game of 

cricket, whether in the school, club or neighbourhood environment. The new rules and 

specially designed equipment mean that the game can be played safely indoors and 

outdoors, on almost any surface. 

Previous experience of Kwik Cricket may benefit some pupils but is certainly not essential.

Introduction 

NatWest and ECB’s Involvement in Inter Cricket and Schools 

NatWest has supported cricket for 25 years and Inter Cricket is its first schools-based 

activity. This initiative seeks to significantly raise the profile of cricket in schools by 

introducing cricket to a new generation. 

ECB and NatWest are wholly committed to supporting Inter Cricket in schools and through 

Get Inter Cricket to enable teachers to teach Inter Cricket with confidence and 

creativity. ECB has designed these resources as a tool for teachers to assist them in 

implementing effective and memorable Inter Cricket lessons. They also aim to encourage 

schools to foster student ability and interest so that students will want to further their 

participation by accessing the activities of the local cricket club. A complementary DVD 

and on-line resources have been designed to accompany this folder, and to provide 

additional ideas, whilst you may also wish to explore the ECB website for further 

information and support – www.ecb.co.uk/intercricket. 

Above all, ECB seeks to elevate the profile of cricket in schools, by providing this support 

for teachers and students with a range of materials relevant to all age groups and ability 

levels. The core skills of fielding, running, striking and throwing underpin the basic 

requirements of many other sports; mastery of these provides a strong platform for 

students’ progression elsewhere, and develops a student’s confidence, balance and coordination.

Introduction 

Introduction to the Resources 

What is Get Inter Cricket? 

Get Inter Cricket is a multi-media cricket curriculum resource that has been designed 

for use in secondary schools to assist teachers in the planning and delivery of cricket for 

the 11-14 age group. The resources have been developed in conjunction with experienced 

cricket experts and organisations and with practising teaching professionals in England 

and Wales. The entire Get Inter Cricket educational offering, which also includes 

resources for cricket clubs, introduces an exciting way for pupils of all ages and abilities to 

develop their skills and progress toward the standard game. 

What does Get Inter Cricket offer? 

This pack has been specifically designed to develop basic cricket skills for all students 

aged 11-14, including striking, fielding and bowling. The resource encourages the 

development of these skills as well as playing in a team and with pupils of different ages 

and abilities. 

The structure of the resource is designed to support teachers in exploring a variety of 

teaching styles, moving away from the traditional teacher-centred style of lesson delivery 

and encouraging inclusive student-focussed lessons with maximum student participation. 

Amongst students of this age teachers should encourage independent and self-guided 

learning, and the format of the task cards has been designed with this in mind. The 

breadth of activities provide teachers with an opportunity to adapt lessons to incorporate 

different styles, often enabling the use of multiple teaching styles in one lesson to meet 

your learning outcomes. 

Get Inter Cricket has been created to motivate students in every activity by 

encouraging the participation of everyone, regardless of ability, and shifting the focus to 

the improvement of a student’s personal performance rather than winning or losing. This 

encourages all students to try their best and to set personal goals to improve their own 

performances. 

For maximum flexibility each activity contains several variations to allow its ongoing use 

with students of different ages and progressive ability. Combine one activity with another 

to provide further variations and ideas for delivery and to ensure that all students’ needs 

are met; there are no rules as to how these cards are used - you will find an approach that 

best suits your teaching style and opportunities. This is not a scheme of work but a 

resource to enhance learning experiences.

Introduction 

How to use this Resource 

The Get Inter Cricket resource comprises a ring-bound folder divided into sections, 

containing: 

• 1 x 36 page ‘loose-leaf’ manual 

• 12 x A4 task cards (which can be photocopied) 

• 4 x A4 wet weather activity work sheets (which can be photocopied) 

• 6 x A3 posters for the classroom or sports centre – each of these demonstrates a 

core skill 

Task Cards 

Manual Layout and Contents 

The manual is divided into six sections: 

1. Inter Cricket and PE 4. Fitness and Activities 

2. Playing Inter Cricket 5. Useful Extensions 

3. Task Cards 6. Additional Resources

Introduction 

Inter Cricket and PE 

Contains sections on: 

• how this resource supports your teaching of the curriculum 

• the transition between late primary (and Kwik Cricket) and early secondary 

school 

• maintaining pupils’ interest in cricket 

• how to maximise inclusion, working with students with all levels of ability and 

need. And introducing various roles to ensure full participation by all students at 

all times 

Playing Inter Cricket 

Contains information on: 

• Inter Cricket equipment 

• how Inter Cricket can be adapted for play indoors or outdoors 

• health and safety information 

Task Cards 

This section contains twelve task cards that have been specifically designed to encourage 

students in learning through physical activity. 

Fitness and Activities 

Contains sections on: 

• fitness 

• competition models for application within a school environment 

• wet weather activities

Introduction 

Skill Posters 

The resource materials also include six A3 posters featuring images and key aspects of 

Inter Cricket technique. For display in the sports centre or classroom, they are intended to 

complement your teaching and inspire pupils to maximise their potential. 

Finally, we wish you every success in the use of these resources in your Inter Cricket 

teaching, and in your integration of the sport’s principles within other areas of the 

curriculum. 

Invite your school to develop their Inter Cricket delivery and capabilities, identifying 

additional resources you might access. Inspire your students with real motivation and 

potential, and who knows, you may find yourself responsible for instilling a life-long love 

of sport and cricket, or the identification of future cricket heroes!


Inter Cricket and the Curriculum 

Get Inter Cricket supports the delivery of the Physical Education Curriculum through the 

running, striking, fielding and throwing activities provided within this resource. However, 

these activities have been designed so that the skills they develop also transfer and 

underpin the broader physical education curriculum. Developing skills in striking for 

instance will assist transfer of skills in softball, whilst throwing skills (accuracy) immediately 

support the delivery of other team sports such as netball, tennis and rugby. 

Inter Cricket and Cross Subject Learning 

Inter Cricket has clear links to other KS3 curricula, not just PE. Task cards feature a 

curriculum link with relevant exercises, making lessons more interesting and varied. 

National Curriculum Checklist 

• PE – games activities 

• Maths – Ma2 calculations, percentages, statistics (scoring); Ma3 geometry, angles 

(bowling, throwing, batting) 

• ICT – using spreadsheets (scoring); using digital cameras / video equipment to 

record skills 

• Citizenship – resolving conflict fairly (role of umpire), participation, decision making 

• PSHE – all aspects can be demonstrated within Inter Cricket 

• Art and design – making models to demonstrate body positions 

• English – En1 reading (vocabulary) 

• Geography – mapping the field 

• Science – Sc2 health and nutrition (fitness), Sc4 forces and motion (throwing, 

striking)


The Transition from Late Primary to Early Secondary School 

Teachers of students aged 11-14 may also wish to review the learning objectives and 

progressions set out for those in the 9-11 age group and to understand progression over 

these years. This can help define the teaching parameters for each age group, whilst 

providing additional stimulus and direction for less or more able students. 

Basic key skills such as catching and throwing, running, and underarm bowling should be 

well established by this stage. 

After taking their SAT exams at the end of May, KS2 pupils are ready to get involved in PE, 

having had a long break from sport in the lead-up to the exams. The six-week period in 

June and July is an ideal time to introduce Year 6 pupils to Inter Cricket during their 

‘cooling down’ time prior to starting secondary school. 

This time can be used to prepare pupils to develop their cricket skills in secondary school.


Maintaining Pupils’ Interest in Cricket 

Pupils moving from primary to secondary school are an incredibly varied group. Some will 

appear quite advanced and confident, others shy and unsure, others still may appear blasé 

and uninterested. They will have already decided whether they are into sport or not, some 

of them will have well-developed skills and others will not. 

Enthusiasm for cricket will also vary a great deal – some pupils may have played Kwik 

Cricket, others may have some experience of the standard game and others will have no 

experience of cricket whatsoever. Cultural backgrounds and home environments will also 

affect attitudes to the game. 

Inter Cricket was created with sufficient flexibility to meet the needs and fit the ability of all 

of these pupils. Because of its coloured kit and white ball, Inter Cricket has a ‘cooler’ 

perceived appearance than traditional cricket. It is also very exciting and fast-paced, 

whilst being reassuringly safe. 

The extra-curricular activities suggested further in this manual will foster independence and 

feelings of membership and teamwork amongst pupils, giving cricket a positive 

association.


Differentiation and Inter Cricket 

Flexibility is essential in creating an environment in which all pupils have the opportunity to 

achieve success. For example, modifications can be made to equipment (e.g. wider, lighter 

bats; slightly coloured, larger balls) and allocation of time (sufficient time needs to be 

allocated for tasks to be completed). 

Difficult activities may need to be revisited on several occasions but for shorter periods. 

Group or team sizes can be reduced so that individuals can take a more active role. 

The space available can also be modified as appropriate, e.g. larger spaces allow greater 

reaction time, smaller spaces may reduce distances to targets. Modes of communication 

must of course be appropriate to individual needs. 

The process of ‘differentiation’ allows teachers and coaches to ensure that they focus on 

the abilities rather than lack of ability or disability of performers, whilst maintaining a safe 

and enjoyable learning environment. 

There are many ways that children of different abilities can participate in and enjoy Inter 

Cricket. 

Children with impaired mobility can bowl underarm and/or seated. Batting is achieved by 

bowling a ‘drop feed’ ball, and designated runners can undertake running between wickets. 

Batting practice can be achieved with the use of ‘cones’ or tees. Scoring and umpiring are 

important roles that can be undertaken by pupils of any ability.


Inter Cricket Equipment 

The Inter Cricket Set includes: 

• 3 pairs of ambidextrous batting gloves 

• 3 pairs of quick-change leg guards 

• 1 thread-stitched and 5 rubberised balls for indoor and outdoor use 

• 2 colourful sets of stumps 

• 1 pair of close-fitting wicket keeping gloves 

• 3 lightweight wooden cricket bats 

• All equipment comes in an Inter Cricket holdall 

To order equipment and for further information on Inter Cricket, visit 

www.ecb.co.uk/intercricket or call the ECB Development Information 

Line on 0800 214 314. 

However, this kit is not essential for playing Inter Cricket. Standard (or modified) bats, 

gloves, leg guards and stumps can be used, along with any soft ball.


Inter Cricket Indoors and Outdoors 

Inter Cricket can be easily adapted for play indoors or outdoors, so bad weather or limited 

facilities need not limit planned lessons or activities. 

The main differences in the indoor and outdoor game are set out in this section. 

Playing Inter Cricket Indoors 

Pitch 

• As set out in the diagram below, with permissible adjustments for local 

circumstances. 

• The pitch should be offset towards the striker’s end to offer a longer boundary to 

the boundary wall behind the bowler. 

• Pitch length may be adjusted to suit ball type and size of playing area. 

• The ‘running crease’ drawn across the pitch 15 yards (13.71m) from the middle 

stump at the strikers end may be reduced to a minimum of 10 yards. The shorter 

distance is set to encourage batters to run. 

Recommended length of pitch: 

• U12 = 20 yards (18.3m) 

Boundary 

• U13 = 21 yards (19.2m) 

• Over 14 = 22 yards (20.1m) 

15 yards 

Inner Zone 

Zone Score =+1 

4 feet 


Batter 

Running Crease 

Non-striker 


Bowler 

4 feet 

Boundary Score =+4 or +6


Teams 

Each team has a minimum of six players, including a wicket keeper who does not bowl. 

Team size may be increased if space permits. 

A captain is appointed in each team. The captain, in consultation with team mates, is 

responsible for field placements and order of batting. Waiting batters act as scorers and 

umpires. 

Batting 

Each team has one innings. An innings is closed after 

an agreed number of overs or when all batters are out. 

Normal cricket rules apply, except: 

• Non-striking batter waits level with and to the 

side of the ‘running crease’ and may not 

interfere with any bowled ball. 

• Batters change ends at the end of each over. 

• Batters may be caught out off the ceiling and 

walls (except the boundary wall), providing the 

ball has not touched the floor. 

• To run-out a batter running to the ‘running 

crease’, the wicket has to be broken at the end 

the batter is running toward. 

• LBW may only be given if a batter deliberately blocks the ball to prevent it hitting 

the wicket. 

• A single remaining batter may continue batting, changing ends as necessary to 

receive strike. 

• A partner must run with the remaining batter; the whole side is out when the solo 

batter is out or either player is run out. 

• A batter retires on 15 but the last scoring hit counts (ie. if batter is on 14 and scores 

6 on their next hit, they retire on 20). 

• A retired batter may resume their innings when only one batter remains.


Fielding 

• Captain tells fielders where to position. With the 

exception of the wicket keeper, no fielder is 

allowed to stand within 10 yards of the striking 

batter until the ball is played. 

Bowling 

• Bowl from one end only (overarm bowling). Only 

six balls to be bowled in any over. 

• If preferred, two bowlers may bowl in tandem, 

bowling alternately to complete either a six ball 

over or 2 x six ball overs. The inactive bowler 

may not field. No bowler may bowl more than 

four overs per session. 

• The ball which follows a no-ball or wide is a free 

hit (striker cannot be out on that hit).


Scoring 

Batting team 

• Batters may run on any ball whether it is hit or not. 

• Batters score runs by running between the striker’s popping crease and the 

‘running crease’ (score 1 for each completed run). 

Zone score 

• 1 run is added to the batter’s score if a struck ball hits any wall other than the 

boundary wall behind the bowler. 

Boundaries 

Extras 

• 4 runs are added to the batter’s score if a struck ball hits the floor and then the 

boundary wall behind the bowler without touching any other wall beforehand. 

• 6 runs are added to the batter’s score if a struck ball hits the boundary wall behind 

the bowler without touching the floor or any other wall beforehand. 

• Add 2 runs to the team score for each no-ball or wide bowled by the opposing 

team (any completed runs, zone scores or boundaries are also added to the team 

score). 

• If the ‘free hit’ (immediately following a wide or no-ball) is also a wide or no-ball that 

ball is pronounced ‘dead’ and 6 runs are added to the team score. 

Explanatory note 

If a no-ball or wide is bowled immediately after a ‘free hit’ then 2 extra runs are scored, as 

described above. The following ball would then be a ‘free hit’, unless six balls have already 

been bowled in which case the over is ended and an additional 6 runs are added to the 

team score.


Playing Inter Cricket Outdoors 

Pitch 

 

• As set out in the diagram, with permissible 

adjustments for local circumstances. 

Recommended length of pitch: 

• U12 = 20 yards (18.3m) 

• U13 = 21 yards (19.2m) 

• Over 14 = 22 yards (20.1m) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Pitch length may be adjusted to suit ball 

type and size of playing area. 

Teams 

 

 

Each team has a minimum of eight players, including a wicket keeper who does not bowl. 

A captain is appointed in each team. The captain, in consultation with team mates, is 

responsible for field placements and order of batting. Waiting batters can act as scorers 

and umpires. 

Boundary scores are as in the laws of cricket, ie. 4 or 6 runs. The zone score is ignored if 

the ball crosses the boundary.


Batting 

Normal cricket rules apply, except: 

• 50% of team bat in the first innings and the remaining 50% in the second innings. 

• An innings is closed when an agreed number of overs has been bowled or when all 

batters are out. 

• A single remaining batter may continue batting, changing end as necessary to 

receive strike; a partner must run with the remaining batter; either batter may be 

run out to end the innings. 

• LBW may only be given if a batter deliberately blocks the ball to prevent it hitting 

the wicket. 

• A batter retires on 15 but the last scoring hit counts (ie. if batter is on 14 and scores 

6 on their next hit, they retire on 20). 

• A retired batter may resume their innings when only one batter remains. 

Fielding 

• Fielders, except for the wicket keeper and bowler, must start outside the inner zone 

and may only enter that zone as the batter hits the ball or the ball passes the batter. 

• The captain tells fielders where to place their fielding disc. Each fielder must 

position their disc to look over it toward the batter and then walk over it as the 

bowler bowls. 

• Fielders take their fielding disc to a new fielding position at the end of an over. 

• If a fielder attempts a run out and the ball hits the stumps, that ball is declared 

‘dead’ and no further runs may be scored. 

Bowling 

• Bowlers use their fielding disc to mark their run-up. Bowl (overarm) from both 

ends. 

• Minimum of eight overs per side per match. At least 50% of the team must bowl. 

• No bowler may bowl more than four overs. Only six balls to be bowled in any over. 

• The ball which follows a no-ball or wide is a ‘free hit’ (striker cannot be out on that 

hit). Name and signal of ‘free hit’ to be determined.


Scoring 

Batting team 

Batters may run on any ball whether it is hit or not. Standard cricket scoring applies, 

except: 

• Add 1 run (zone score) to the batter’s score if a ball is hit outside the inner 

zone but does not cross the boundary line. 

• Add 2 extra runs to the team score for each no-ball or wide bowled by the 

opposing team (any completed runs, zone scores or boundaries are also added to 

the team score). 

• If the free hit immediately following a wide or no-ball is also a wide or no-ball then 

that ball is pronounced ‘dead’ and 6 runs are added to the team score. 

Fielding team 

3 runs are scored each time a batter is out. 

Result: the team with the highest combined batting and fielding score wins. A tied game is 

acceptable. If a winner must be determined, use a bowl-out competition as follows: 

• Three bowlers from each team bowl one ball alternately at three stumps. 

• The ball may be a full toss or bounce once only. 

• The team scoring the most hits after that sequence is declared the winner. 

• If the scores are still tied after three balls per team then ‘sudden death’ applies. 

Explanatory note 

If a no-ball or wide is bowled immediately after a ‘free hit’, then 2 extra runs are scored, as 

described above. The following ball would then be a ‘free hit’ unless six balls have already 

been bowled, in which case the over is ended and an additional 6 runs are added to the 

team score. 

Health and Safety 

To ensure that all health and safety requirements are met, please refer to the BAALPE 

manual for assistance with the risk assessment recommended for your school - 

www.baalpe.org.

Task Cards 

Using Your Task Cards 

• There are twelve Task Cards in total. 

• Ten of these Task Cards have been specifically designed to engage students in 

learning through physical activity. 

• Each card introduces a series of Inter Cricket skills by providing advice on good 

technique and a variety of activities and exercises to demonstrate how to improve 

upon this. 

• Extension activities are included on the cards for more able students and Inter 

Cricket rules relating to specific techniques are highlighted for easy reference. 

• The two additional task cards will help with setting up the pitch, familiarise pupils 

with cricket language and facilitate scoring of the game. 

Self-guided Learning 

• The cards are designed to be used by students who can be encouraged to work in 

groups. 

• The activities are simple to implement and can be executed quickly, giving students 

the opportunity to practise and repeat skills. 

• The group activities offer all students the chance to plan short activity sessions and 

lead others in them.

Task Cards 

Warm-up Ideas 

• Warm-up and cool down activities help students remember what they have learned, 

reflect on previous work, and prepare for what they need to do next. 

• Some specific warm-up activities have been suggested, but largely students should 

be encouraged to think about the type of warm-up activities that will prepare them 

for the lesson. 

• Students should be aware of the differences between warming-up for specific 

games and preparing themselves over a longer period of time. 

Pupil Assessment 

• Each card provides students with the opportunity to observe their own performance 

and that of their peers. The use of video and digital photography can be 

encouraged if available. This provides an opportunity for comparison against video 

footage of first class players, not only to examine skill and technique, but also to 

analyse games and patterns of play. 

• Students can use the information gained from analysis of their own performance to 

identify strengths and weaknesses and to influence and improve play. They can be 

encouraged to take responsibility for making decisions about their own and others’ 

progress and to take the initiative to try out ideas that offer improvement. 

• When assessing each other, students may need to be encouraged to think about 

the way they give feedback by using good technical language and selecting the 

information that will increase knowledge of performance. 

Inter Cricket with a Difference 

• A conditioned game with a clear technical focus is suggested on most cards. 

These games not only reinforce the skills learned through prior activities, they also 

help students to experience competitive play. 

• The games have the additional benefits of introducing students to team play and 

providing opportunities to discuss how they are going to play as a team, and how 

well they managed to play.

Task Cards 

Links to QCA Units 

• All of the task cards assist with delivery of QCA PE Unit 9 – Striking and fielding 

games: Development. 

• There are additional links to Unit 10 through analysis and improvement of technique 

and to Unit 5, which may be good preparation for using this resource. 

Prior Learning 

When using the task cards it will be helpful if students are aware of, or have some 

knowledge of, the following: 

• Suitable warm-up and stretching exercises to prepare them for PE sessions. 

• The basic rules and strategy of Inter Cricket. 

• An understanding of the Inter Cricket pitch. (An example of the pitch for the indoor 

and outdoor game is provided for students). 

• The basic principles of attack and defence. 

• The different skills involved in Inter Cricket such as throwing, catching and striking. 

Extension and Enrichment 

Out of lessons, students could be encouraged to: 

• Practise skills at home and during spare time. 

• Take part in school sport, either competitively or socially. 

• Join clubs in the community and/or use local facilities. 

• Watch live or recorded matches to appreciate high-quality performance. 

• Search the internet to find information about sports and opportunities to 

participate.

Task Cards 

Task Card Learning Outcomes Skill Development Activities 

1 • Throw accurately • Overarm throw Practise 

• Throwing for accuracy; throwing at a target 

• Varying the size of target and distance of 

throw 

Conditioned game 

• Extra points for accurate throwing 

2 • Catch a ball arriving at a 

variety of heights 

• To catch a ball correctly, 

safely and consistently 

• Catching a high and low 

ball 

Practise 

• Hot Potato – warm up incorporating skills of 

running, throwing and catching 

• Catching a ball from different heights 

consistently 


• Reward for developing additional 

throw/catch opportunities in the game 

3 • Understand how to field 

securely 

• Create an effective 

barrier 

• Understand the 

importance for a wicket 

keeper to attack the ball 

• Stopping a ball with two 

hands 

• Wicket keeping 

Practise 

• Blocking a ball by adopting defensive barrier 

position 

• Positioning fielders for effective defence 

• Receiving a ball behind the wicket from a 

variety of directions 


• Bonus for wicket keeper run outs 

4 • Understand the 

importance of fielding 

• Develop techniques for 

speed, efficiency and 

accuracy 

• Retrieving a ball 

Practise 

• Accurate chasing, pick up and throwing to 

field 

• Attempted run outs – retrieve and throw to 

beat the batter 


• Extra points for selection of effective fielding 

positions and use of correct retrieval 

technique 

5 • Grip the bat effectively 

• Adopt a good batting 

stance 

• Hit with consistency and 

control 

• Batting grip, stance and 

backswing 

Practise 

• Familiarisation – holding and running with 

the bat 

• Tapping the bat to improve backswing 

• Striking the ball – progressive activity to 

accurately strike ball off striking tee, from an 

underarm bounce feed and a direct feed

Task Cards 

Task Card Learning Outcomes Skill Development Activities 

6 • Hit a forward defensive 

shot with consistency 

and control 

• Hit a forward drive shot 

with consistency and 

control 

• Understand the need to 

attack and defend as a 

batter 

• Striking the ball forward 

- forward defensive and 

forward drive 

Practise 

• Developing accuracy – blocking the ball 

effectively 

• Achieving distance from a forward drive 


• Extra points for runs scored from a forward 

drive 

7 • Select appropriate shots 

• Direct a ball to space 

with purpose 

• Striking the ball - on 

drive, off drive and pull 

shot 

Practise 

• Controlling direction of shot via shot 

selection 

• Developing accuracy and consistency of 

each type of shot 


• Bonus score for balls hit into designated 

zone 

8 • Run well between 

wickets 

• Understand the batting 

decision process 

• Understand the 

importance of 

awareness, good calling 

and working with a 

batting partner 

• Running between 

wickets, good calling 

and decision making 

Practise 

• Observing and contributing to the decision 

process 

• Running on command from batting partner 

• Identifying the right decision and the 

decision maker 

• Effective running and turning with the bat 

• Acknowledging the role of the umpire 

9 • Bowl accurately and 

consistently 

• Improve the line and 

length of the ball 

• Bowling overarm from 

standing 

Practise 

• Bowling accurately into specified zones 

• Bowling consistently at a target 


• Extra points for perfect bowling delivery 

10 • Good approach and 

accurate release of the 

ball when bowling 

overarm 

• Understand how speed 

and flight can restrict the 

batter 

• Bowling overarm with a 

run up 

Practise 

• High jump and turn to develop run up and 

delivery 

• Progressively increasing speed of run up – 

walk, jog, then run up to bowl

Fitness and Activities 

Fitness 

Increasingly, children are encouraged to practice a holistically healthy lifestyle. Their 

physical and mental fitness are nurtured by team sports. 

Cricket can be used effectively to raise pupils’ fitness levels. Inter Cricket is fast-paced 

and offers players the opportunity to practice all of the skills required of the game. 

Improved fitness is just one of the many benefits of Inter Cricket. 

Skills learned in Inter Cricket will, of course, help pupils in other sports, such as tennis, 

rugby, softball etc. 

Inter Cricket Competitions within the School Environment 

Competitions are a great way to get pupils really enthusiastic about and involved in a 

sport. Nothing focuses pupils’ attention on skills as much as striving to beat others! There 

are several ways that Inter Cricket competitions can be run at school, either in lessons, at 

lunchtime or after school. 

The first is competition within classes, eg. pairs cricket, or a tailored version of Kwik 

Cricket, using Inter Cricket equipment and rules. 

The second is year group competitions, where classes play against other classes in the 

same year. 

The third is competing in inter-school leagues, which can be highly motivating and a great 

experience. 

Some pupils may even end up competing at county level whilst still at school. 

Wet Weather Activities 

The wet weather does not mean that you have to give up on the day’s Inter Cricket training 

session. If the indoor sports hall is already taken, here are some classroom ideas that will 

keep students learning in a fun way.

Activity 1 

The Ten Ways of Being Out in Cricket 

Match the correct definition with each of the ten ways to be out in cricket. 

Caught 

Bowled 

Leg Before Wicket 

Stumped 

Run Out 

Hit Wicket 

Handle the Ball 

Obstructing the Field 

Hit the Ball Twice 

Timed Out 

A 

B 

C 

D 

E 

F 

G 

H 

I 

J 

If a batsman hits a delivery with his bat and then deliberately hits the ball again for any reason other than to defend his wicket 

from being broken by the ball. 

If, in attempting to hit a ball or taking off for a first run, the batsman touches and breaks the wicket, he is out. 

If the batsman misses the ball and it hits and breaks the wicket directly from the bowler’s delivery. He is also out if the ball breaks 

the wicket after deflecting from his bat or body. 

If a new batsman takes longer than two minutes, from the time the previous wicket falls, to appear on the field. 

If a fielder catches the ball on the full after the batsman has hit it with his bat, or it has touched the hand holding the bat. 

If a batsman touches the ball with a hand not currently holding the bat, without the permission of the fielding side. 

If the ball hits the batsman without first hitting the bat, but would have hit the wicket if the batsman was not there, and the ball 

does not pitch on the leg side of the wicket the batsman will be out. However, if the ball strikes the batsman outside the line of 

the off-stump, and the batsman was attempting to play a stroke, he is not out. 

If either batsman is attempting to take a run, or to return to his crease after an aborted run, and a fielder breaks that batsman’s 

wicket with the ball while he is out of the crease. 

If a batsman deliberately interferes with the efforts of fielders to gather or catch the ball or affect a run out. 

If a batsman misses the ball and in attempting to play it steps outside his crease, he is out if the wicket-keeper gathers the ball 

and breaks the wicket with it before the batsman can ground part of his body or his bat behind his crease. 

What are the 5 most common ways of being out in cricket? 

1. Way of being out ……………………………… 

2. Way of being out ………………………………. 

3. Way of being out ……………………………… 

4. Way of being out ………………………………. 

5. Way of being out ……………………………….

Activity 2 

Cricket Glossary 

Can you fill in the blanks and complete the glossary of cricket terms? 

B _ _ _ 

B _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

C _ _ _ _ B _ _ _ _ _ 

C _ _ _ _ _ 

H _ _ W _ _ _ _ _ 

I _ _ _ _ _ _ 

L _ _ B _ _ _ _ _ W _ _ _ _ _ 

N _ B _ _ _ 

N _ _ S _ _ _ _ _ _ 

O _ _ _ 

R _ _ 

R _ _ O _ _ 

One of the wooden crosspieces that sits on top of 

adjacent pairs of stumps to form a wicket. 

The perimeter of a cricket field, marked by an obvious 

fence or marker. 

When a batter is beaten by a ball and subsequently 

dismissed through the stumps being broken. 

One of the white lines marked on the pitch to denote 

different areas of play; either the bowling, popping, or 

return c_ _ _ _ _ 

To strike and subsequently break the stumps with the bat 

resulting in the batter’s dismissal. 

The period of time spent batting by a team or individual. 

If the ball hits the batsman without first hitting the bat, but 

would have hit the wicket if the batsman was not there, 

and the ball does not pitch on the leg side of the wicket 

the batsman will be out. However, if the ball strikes the 

batsman outside the line of the off-stump, and the 

batsman was attempting to play a stroke, he is not out. 

An unfair bowl because (a) it rolled along the ground (b) 

the bowler threw the ball instead of bowling with a straight 

arm (c) the bowler overstepped the popping crease. 

A term used to describe the batter waiting at the 

bowler’s end. 

6 fair deliveries completes one of these. 

The method of scoring during a game of cricket. Also a 

single unit of score. 

A method of dismissing the batter by disturbing the 

stumps before the batter has made his ground and is 

within the batting crease.

Activity 2 

S _ _ _ _ _ _ 

S _ _ _ _ _ 

T _ _ _ 

W _ _ _ _ _ 

W _ _ _ _ _ M _ _ _ _ _ 

W _ _ _ _ _ K _ _ _ _ _ 

W _ _ _ 

The name given to the batter who is facing the bowler. The 

batter is said to be “on strike”. 

Wooden uprights of which there are three on which the 

bails are balanced to form the wicket. 

A cricket match of International standard scheduled to last 

for 5 days. 

The collective term for 3 stumps and 2 bails at either end 

of the pitch. 

An over in which the bowler has taken a wicket without a 

batter scoring runs. 

Player who wears fielding gloves and stands behind the 

batter’s wicket ready to catch the ball if the batter 

misses it. 

A ball that a batter cannot reach.

Activity 3 

Cricket Language – Word Search 

There are 16 words that are used in cricket, hidden in the puzzle. Can you find them and 

list them all? 

Words can be found in the following directions: upwards, downwards, diagonally and even 

backwards! 

1._________________ 

2._________________ 

3._________________ 

4._________________ 

5._________________ 

6._________________ 

7._________________ 

8._________________ 

9.__________________ 

10._________________ 

11._________________ 

12._________________ 

13._________________ 

14._________________ 

15._________________ 

16._________________ 

Now can you define what each word means in terms of cricket?

Activity 4 

Healthy & Balanced Diet 

A healthy and balanced diet is essential as it provides the energy and nourishment 

everyone needs to be fit and active. All foods fit into one of the groups below and we need 

to eat more of some foods than others to have a healthy diet. 

What food does this group include? 

How much do we 

need? 

What do they provide? 

Fruit & 

Vegetables 

All vegetables, raw, cooked, frozen and 

canned 

All fruits, raw, cooked, frozen and 

canned 

We should try to eat at 

least five portions of 

fruit and vegetables a 

day 

• Some forms of sugar, a type of 

carbohydrate 

• Vitamins such as vitamin C, carotenes 

(a type of vitamin A), folic acid 

• Fibre to help the intestines work well 

• Useful amounts of some minerals, like 

iron, potassium and calcium 

Bread, other 

cereals and 

potatoes 

Bread, rolls, pizza base, chapattis, 

breakfast cereals, oats, pasta, rice, 

noodles, potatoes, yams, plantain, 

maize, millet and cornmeal and green 

bananas 

These are known as 

starchy foods and we 

need to make these the 

main part of our meals 

• Starch is a type of carbohydrate that 

the body uses for energy 

• Foods contain calcium, fibre, iron and 

B vitamins 

• Many breakfast cereals and breads 

have added vitamins 

• Wholemeal and wholegrain versions 

provide plenty of fibre 

Milk and 

dairy 

products 

Milk – full cream, semi-skimmed and 

skimmed, cheese, yoghurt, fromage 

frais 

We need to eat 

moderate amounts of 

these foods everyday. It 

is a good choice to have 

the lower fat versions of 

these foods whenever 

possible 

• Protein which is needed for growth 

and repairing the body 

• Vitamins such as B12 and riboflavin, 

also vitamins A and D 

• Calcium to build and maintain healthy 

bones 

Foods 

containing 

fat; foods 

containing 

sugar 

Fat – butter, margarines, low-fat 

spreads, olive oil, sunflower oil and 

other cooking oils, mayonnaise and 

salad dressings 

Sugar – ice-cream, pastries, puddings, 

chocolate, sweets, biscuits, cakes, 

crisps and sugary drinks 

There is no need to cut 

these foods out 

completely, but make 

sure you get the balance 

right. Try not to eat 

these foods too often 

and keep them to small 

amounts. Enjoy them as 

treats 

• Fat which gives us energy and also fat 

soluble vitamins A, D, E and K 

• Essential fatty acids 

• Sugars 

Meat and fish 

alternatives 

Meat – beef, pork, bacon, lamb 

Meat products - sausages and 

beefburgers 

Poultry – chicken, turkey 

Fish – fresh, frozen and canned 

Fish products – fish fingers and fish 

cakes 

Liver and kidney 

Non meat alternatives 

Eggs, nuts, beans and lentils (including 

baked beans, chickpeas, red and 

green lentils), textured vegetable 

protein, soya mince 

We need to eat a variety 

of these foods in 

moderate amounts. It is 

a good choice to have 

the low fat versions 

whenever possible 

• Protein 

• B Vitamins like B12 

• Minerals like iron, zinc and magnesium 

*Source: www.lifebytes.gov.uk 

Create a 7 day healthy eating plan for your favourite cricket player including 3 meals and 

two healthy snacks everyday.

Activity Answers 

Activity 1 

What are the 5 most common ways of being out in cricket? 

• Caught 

• Stumped 

• Bowled 

• Run Out 

• Leg before Wicket 

Activity 2 

Cricket Glossary 

Bail, Boundary, Clean Bowled, Crease, Hit Wicket, Innings, Leg Before Wicket, No Ball, Non 

Striker, Over, Run, Run Out, Striker, Stumps, Test, Wicket, Wicket Maiden, Wicket Keeper, 

Wide 

Activity 3 

Word Search 

Bail, Boundary, Crease, Innings, Over, Test, Wicket, Maiden, Wide, Pitch, Bowled, Stumped, 

Drive, Backswing, Block, Caught 

Activity 4 

Students just need to demonstrate an understanding of a balanced and healthy diet. 

A variety of options available.

Useful Extensions 

New Ideas for Inter Cricket 

The flexible and inclusive nature of Inter Cricket means that children of different ages and 

abilities can play alongside each other. 

We propose a new scheme whereby pupils from different forms play together in Inter 

Cricket teams within your school. This could take place during PE lessons (provided this is 

logistically possible) or as an after school club, either at school or at the local cricket club. 

Teams consisting of 11-14 year olds would play together, addressing teamwork in games. 

The socialisation side of cricket would be clearly demonstrated with children of different 

ages, genders and abilities playing together. 

Within your school, older pupils may already be encouraged to coach or mentor younger 

players, as Peer Mentors. This could be extended outside of your school, with GCSE 

pupils coaching and mentoring pupils from your local primary school. This could also be 

linked into the Sports Leaders Awards – JSLA, CSLA and umpiring and coaching 

certificates. 

For more information, visit the British Sports Trust website - www.bst.org.uk.


Inter Cricket After School 

Running After School Inter Cricket Training and Matches 

Inter Cricket practice, training and matches can all be run outside of school hours, either at 

lunchtime or after school. 

These could be run at your school or in partnership with the local cricket club. 

Pupils Coaching Pupils 

The Peer Mentoring scheme (or whichever equivalent your school runs) could be extended 

to these after school activities. 

Older or more talented pupils can organise games, help with umpiring and encouraging 

younger or less talented players to work on the different skills and technique. 

Wicket keeping Throwing with accuracy Batting defensively 

Correct hand positioning 

for catching 

Batting to score runs 

Overarm bowling with run-up


Inter Cricket Outside School 

Focus Clubs 

Focus Clubs are cricket clubs identified by the ECB’s Community Cricket programme to act 

as the strategic lead, focus and profile for cricket on a local basis. 

Focus Clubs are required to offer innovative, well managed and wide reaching junior 

development on high quality facilities, in a safe, effective and child-friendly environment. 

Inter Cricket is an important part of this development. 

Focus Clubs operate at the heart of local clusters of schools and other community groups, 

and receive dedicated and tailored support and resources from a wide ranging and 

integrated professional sport and community development network. As such, they are 

ideal partners for your school. 

To find out more about Inter Cricket in your local Focus Club, you can call the ECB’s 

Development Information Line on 0800 214 314, or contact your local ECB Cricket 

Development Officer. For their details, go to www.ecb.co.uk/ecb/development.


Cricket Development Officers 

Development 

The ECB Development Department has overall responsibility for developing cricket activity 

in schools and clubs in England and Wales. 

The Cricket Development Officers (CDOs) and their County Boards are the mechanism to 

deliver these initiatives. 

Primary and secondary schools, clubs, district cricket and facilities are all crucial elements 

of a framework to provide children with the opportunity to experience the game, as well as 

a pathway for the more talented. 

Numerous activities and resources have been developed, or are being developed, for boys, 

girls, players with disabilities, teachers and coaches. 

National Inter Cricket Competition Schedule 

ECB currently run two exciting Inter Cricket competitions: 

• NatWest Inter Cricket competition for secondary schools 

• NatWest Inter Cricket summer camps 

To find out more or to take part, contact your local Cricket Development Officer. 

Development Initiatives 

The ECB Development Department’s innovation and enterprise in launching new initiatives 

is paying dividends in reversing the decline in the numbers of school children playing 

cricket in England and Wales. 

Contact us 

If you have any development queries you should contact your local Cricket Development 

Officer - or email schools@ecb.co.uk for primary and secondary enquiries. 

As aforementioned, you can also call the ECB’s Development Information 

Line on 0800 214 314. 

You can also find a library of resources and information on the Sport England website - 

www.sportengland.org.

intercricket manual - Ecb - England and Wales Cricket Board

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