Young people will develop at different ages and stages
In New Zealand, boys and girls can begin playing for a team at their local cricket club from the age of five.
There are many common myths around the idea that early success leads to adult success in sport and early specialisation is good for development. In reality, it is being seen that many young people, and athletes with potential, are experiencing injuries and fatigue early on in their sporting endeavors, driving them away from competitive sport.
Canterbury Cricket's approach
Canterbury Cricket continues to work with the sector to provide quality experiences in sport for all tamariki (5-11 years) and rangatahi (12-18 years), including for those who enjoy competition as well as those who just want to have fun and participate socially.
Young people are offered suitable adaptions to the game, dependent on their age and stage. This may mean rule adjustments such as shorter pitch lengths, fewer player numbers, or shortened boundaries. These modifications set up our young people with the greatest chance for success.
Learn more about NZC's approach to Junior Cricket here
