Cricket partners

First and foremost, it is a campaign to enhance the education and well-being of young people by revitalising competitive cricket in state schools so the benefit that our great game offers in promoting life-skills and values can be widely shared. Despite the heroic work of many individual teachers, much needs to be done to re-establish cricket-playing in our schools.

Achieving this can only be good for the game at all levels from grass roots right up to the Test arena. It provides the best and widest opportunities for England and Wales to produce the maximum number of players good enough to play international cricket.

When Chance to shine began in May 2005, there were those who wondered how it would fit in with the Lord’s Taverners and the work done by Pete Ackerley, the England and Wales Cricket Board’s head of development. What we’ve seen are those relationships growing and strengthening with Chance to shine working well with both organisations.

Although the Cricket Foundation is an independent charity and runs the campaign itself, good collaboration exists with the ECB.

We provide Chance to shine with financial support and the campaign works through our county boards. I am delighted that we can work so closely because with 21 per cent of ECB’s income re-invested in grass roots, good working relationships are essential.

When I was re-elected as chairman last year, I said the further expansion of our community projects and Chance to shine in particular would be a significant focus during my new term in office.

I have been pleased to contribute funds into Chance to shine on a personal basis by becoming a Life Member. With the appeal needing to raise £25million to fund this vital campaign, I would urge businesses and members of the public to give it their support, too.

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