Sussex launches cricket hubs to broaden state‑school access

A new programme called “Breaking Boundaries” is establishing four cricket hubs across Sussex to give state‑school children aged 13‑15 easy access to the sport. The initiative, led by Sussex‑based entrepreneur Chris Goodman in partnership with the Sussex Cricket Foundation, aims to ensure every state‑school‑educated child in the county can reach a hub within 30‑35 minutes.

The project responds to a stark talent gap: 59% of England’s men’s and 50% of the women’s cricket teams were educated at private schools, and a privately educated child is more than eight times more likely to become a professional player. By consolidating resources and coaching at local hubs, “Breaking Boundaries” seeks to widen the talent pool and make cricket more inclusive.

Goodman’s motivation stemmed from his own son’s experience at a local club where the majority of participants came from independent schools. The hubs are intended to counter that imbalance and revitalise cricket participation in state schools.