Shoaib Bashir cheers on Berkshire youngsters at national finals

The England spinner joined more than 400 young cricketers at the Chance to Shine tournament

CHARITY FEATURE

More than 400 young cricketers took part in an incredible showcase of tapeball cricket this August at Chance to Shine’s national Street cricket finals.

The Street format – just 20 balls per innings and six players a side – is inspired by games played in streets and parks worldwide. It’s designed to be accessible, informal and exciting, breaking down barriers to the game.

Chance to Shine runs more than 300 free, weekly Street clubs across the UK, offering young people in some of the most deprived areas the chance to play, compete and connect.

The finals brought together 54 qualifying teams from 24 regions, playing 128 fixtures over three action-packed days, including an all-girls’ tournament supported by former Street participant and USA international cricketer Tara Norris. England international Shoaib Bashir, himself a former tapeball player, was also on hand to support.

“Street cricket gives young people a space where they feel they belong – it’s cricket on their terms,” said Chance to Shine’s director of operations Steve Peyman. “You can see the confidence it gives them, not just in sport but in life.”

Bashir, who saw his home county Berkshire triumph on day three, said: “I know what it means to these kids because I was one of them. This isn’t just cricket – it’s a community.”

Click here to support Chance to Shine Street and help bring cricket to more young people.