On February 18, 2026, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced a landmark £45 million investment into grassroots cricket facilities. This funding is derived from the recreational game’s 10% share of the recent private investment into The Hundred franchises—a deal that overall injected approximately £520 million into the sport.
The strategic fund is designed to “turbocharge” inclusivity and accessibility across England and Wales over the next decade.
Core Objectives: Inclusivity & Infrastructure
The new fund specifically targets strategic projects that serve under-represented groups in cricket. Priority will be given to initiatives benefiting:
- Women and Girls: Supporting the goal of reaching 6,000 girls’ teams by 2028.
- Disabled Participants: Creating accessible playing and changing environments.
- Diverse Communities: Enhancing facilities in ethnically diverse and lower socio-economic areas.
Types of Facilities Funded:
- Cricket Domes & Indoor Halls: To allow for year-round play.
- Hybrid Community Hubs: Multi-sport spaces that integrate cricket into local life.
- Non-Turf Pitches & Net Facilities: Providing durable, low-maintenance practice areas.
Financial Leverage and Direct Club Support
The ECB intends for this £45m to act as a “magnet” for further funding. By partnering with the government, local authorities, and developers, the goal is to unlock a total of £150 million in project value over the next 10 years.
| Funding Stream | Previous Limit | New 2026 Limit / Total |
| Strategic Facility Fund | N/A | £45m (Over 10 years) |
| County Grants Fund | £2.5m | £5m (Doubled for 2026) |
| Interest-Free Loans | £50,000 | £75,000 (Per club) |
| Climate & Pitch Grants | N/A | £3m (Annual investment) |
Leadership Perspectives
Richard Gould, ECB CEO:
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity… new and improved facilities are vital to open up access to cricket for communities across England and Wales.”
Leshia Hawkins, Managing Director of the Recreational Game:
“Every Recreational County Board will be able to apply… meaning we can enable projects across the length and breadth of England and Wales.”
Key Dates for Clubs
- April 2026: Applications officially open for the Strategic Facilities Fund.
- 2026 Season: Approximately 300 grassroots projects are expected to be delivered this year alone.