The Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of its new SEND Player Pathway Programme, a year-round initiative designed to support the development of talented SEND cricketers across County Durham.
The programme will form the next step for player progression from the Foundation’s regular weekly free disability hubs, which are funded through the Lord’s Taverners Super 1s programme and upskilling SEND players from clubland.
It will establish a structured talent pathway, with the ambition of creating a SEND representative team capable of competing at regional and national level in the coming years.
The programme is now underway following initial trials and the selection of 10 players, recruited from local cricket clubs and Super 1s hubs, who will be involved in a year-round programme led by Durham Cricket Foundation.
Daryl Smith, Disability Inclusion Officer at Durham Cricket Foundation, said: “The SEND Player Pathway Programme is about giving players the opportunity to progress in a structured, supportive environment while still keeping the game fun and inclusive. We’ve been really encouraged by the quality and commitment shown during the trials, and selecting our first 10 players is an exciting step forward. This programme allows us to build confidence, develop skills and create meaningful playing opportunities, while continuing to grow disability cricket across the county.”
Looking ahead to the summer, the Foundation aims to provide competitive playing opportunities, including friendly and competitive fixtures against local cricket clubs as part of the programme. Further trials are planned during the summer period, with current pathway players included as the programme continues to grow.
The SEND Player Pathway Programme will run for a full season from October 2025 to September 2026, with ongoing opportunities for players and volunteers to get involved as the project develops.
Durham Cricket Foundation remains committed to making cricket accessible to all and sees this programme as an important step in strengthening disability cricket across the county.
To register your interest in the SEND Player Pathway Programme or to find out more, please contact Daryl Smith, Disability Inclusion Officer at Durham Cricket Foundation, via email at daryl.smith@durhamcricket.co.uk .