BUDDING cricketers are being offered international standard training this summer to help them hit their opponents for six.

Astley and Tyldesley Cricket Club will host an eight-week training programme for five to eight-year-olds from May 19.

Taking place every Friday from 6.30pm, the All Stars Cricket course is part of a new initiative from the England and Wales Cricket Board aimed at providing children with a great first experience of the sport.

Former England captain Andrew Strauss, who is now the director of England cricket, and the National Performance Squad have had a hand in the training plan that will be delivered.

Astley and Tyldesley Cricket Club's Jordan Hughes said: “Junior cricket is the heartbeat and future of our club.

“This programme is all about getting kids off the sofa and out in the sunshine, making friends and having fun playing the game.

“Working alongside Lancashire Cricket Board we are hoping we can help inspire the next generation of cricketers here at Astley and Tyldesley Cricket Club.”

The training programme at the club's Gin Pit ground on Meanley Road
in  Tyldesley is for both girls and boys, with the emphasis placed firmly on them learning how to play cricket in a fun, safe and inclusive environment.

Parents will be encouraged to take part in the training and be active with their children.

Each registered child will receive a pack of cricket goodies to keep, including a bat, ball, backpack, water bottle and personalised shirt and cap, so that they can continue to play the sport once the course has finished.

Astley and Tyldesley Cricket Club is hoping to have at least 30 children taking part.

For more information, or to register your child for the training programme, visit allstarscricket.co.uk and search for 'Astley and Tyldesley Cricket Club'.