New scheme helps deliver cricket to inner-city youngsters

Along with former England international footballer and Hull City manager, Nick Barmby, Moxon was on hand to promote an initiative designed to tackle youth crime and anti-social behaviour.

‘StreetChance supported by Barclays Spaces for Sports’ is a Cricket Foundation project which delivers street cricket sessions in inner-city areas affected by youth crime and anti-social behaviour.

Working closely with Yorkshire Cricket Board and Hull City Council, StreetChance has developed projects in Wymersley, Shaw Park and Thoresby, delivering tapeball cricket sessions in the evenings to young people under 18 in the local community.

Using a tapeball – a tennis ball wrapped in electrical tape – the sessions are fun and fast-paced, with innings lasting just 20 balls, and games no more than 20 minutes.

This accessible form of the game can be played with limited equipment and space, making it perfect for inner city venues, lacking in green space.

Sessions in Hull are held ay Wymersley Park on Mondays and Wednesdays (4-6pm); Kelvin Hall School on Fridays (6-9pm) and at the Thomas Ferens Academy, Shaw Park.

Since its inception in 2007 and introduction into seven towns and cities, including Dewsbury, 25,000 children have been involved.

Warwickshire all-rounder Steffan Piolet and paceman Tom Milnes have signed new contracts with the 2012 LV County Championship winners.

Piolet, 24, joined the Bears ahead of the 2009 season and has agreed a two-year deal after becoming an important limited-overs player. Milnes, 20, is a product of the club’s academy and has signed for three years.

Warwickshire assistant coach Dougie Brown said: “Both Steff and Tom are good athletes, great team men and as young players have excellent potential to play a key role in the team.”