Start a junior kit with the equipment required by the player's format and role. Soft-ball sessions may use a different setup from hard-ball cricket; ask the club which ball, bat and protection are required before buying.
Build the kit around the kind of cricket the junior will play. Soft-ball sessions and hard-ball matches use different equipment, and a club may loan some items to new players.
Checklist by format
| Item | Soft-ball session | Hard-ball cricket |
|---|---|---|
| Bat | Use the size and material the session specifies | Choose a bat by the player’s current size and format |
| Ball | Confirm the organizer’s soft-ball type | Confirm the competition’s ball and format |
| Helmet | Follow the activity organizer’s rules | Check age-group regulations and required certification |
| Pads and gloves | Ask whether the session requires them | Match the player’s role and the club’s requirements |
| Footwear | Check the playing surface and venue rules | Confirm the ground and footwear requirements |
| Clothing and bag | Bring comfortable kit and a water bottle | Add the club’s clothing and equipment requirements |
Buy for the current season
- Ask the coach whether the player is joining soft-ball or hard-ball cricket.
- Confirm the required equipment and whether the club can loan any pieces.
- Measure the player and use the manufacturer’s size chart for each item.
- Try the bat, helmet, pads and gloves as a complete kit.
- Label the items and pack them in a bag the player can carry.
The ECB’s beginner guide distinguishes casual soft-ball cricket from hard-ball equipment. Its recreational safety regulations explain junior helmet rules in England and Wales. Also see our bat size chart, helmet standards guide and batting pad fit guide. Browse junior cricket gear.
Sources
Common questions
What does a child need for a first cricket session?
Ask the club which format and ball it uses. A casual soft-ball session can require less equipment than hard-ball practice.
Should junior players use a helmet for hard-ball cricket?
Follow the current rules for the league and age group. The ECB recreational rules specify helmet requirements for junior hard-ball cricket.
Should I buy a full kit before the first practice?
Check what the club provides and what the player is expected to bring, then buy only the items that match the format and current size.