Why the rules matter for parents
A hard cricket ball can cause serious injury. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) publishes safety guidelines for recreational cricket, including mandatory protective equipment for players under 18. This page summarises the points parents most often ask about. It is a plain-English summary, not a replacement for the source document, which may be updated. Read the current version of the ECB Recreational Cricket Safety Guidelines (PDF).
What the ECB guidelines say for players under 18
- Batting: a helmet with a faceguard or grille must be worn when batting against a hard cricket ball, in matches and in practice sessions.
- Batting against a bowling machine: players under 18 must always wear a helmet with a faceguard or grille, and no person under 18 should operate a bowling machine.
- Wicketkeeping: keepers under 18 standing up to the stumps must wear a helmet with a faceguard or grille, or a face protector.
- Fielding close to the bat: players aged 16 to 17 must wear a helmet with a faceguard or grille when fielding within 8 yards (7.3 metres) of the striking batter.
- Groin protector (box): a male player under 18 who is required to wear a helmet must also wear a box.
- Helmets stay on: batters should not remove the helmet while balls are being bowled, including when at the non-striker's end.
- Neck protectors: strongly advised whenever a helmet is required or recommended.
Fit and condition
The guidelines recommend that a junior's helmet is tested against the size of ball they will actually play with, so ask the retailer or your club which standard applies. A helmet that is too big, loose or damaged offers less protection. Check straps, faceguard and padding before each session, and replace equipment that has been damaged or is outgrown.
Kit at private coaching sessions
Confirm before booking which equipment the venue provides and what your child should bring. Freddie's booking terms ask families to agree equipment in advance; see booking information and terms and coaching for beginners. For junior players, see junior cricket coaching and the safeguarding questions to ask before booking.