The women’s cricket season in Durham shows no signs of slowing down, as Durham Cricket Foundation’s Indoor Bash Women’s Competition brought together 38 teams playing 132 games this winter.
Following the record-breaking success of the Glow in the Dark competition before Christmas, the Indoor Bash ensured that women and girls could continue playing competitive cricket throughout the winter months. Delivered over seven weeks from January to March 2026, the competition is supported by Point North’s Aggression Sessions grant from Durham University.
The Indoor Bash forms part of the Foundation’s commitment to creating a full, year-round calendar of opportunities for women’s cricket. With the outdoor season running from May to September, followed by Glow in the Dark Cricket in the autumn and the Indoor Bash in early 2026, players now have consistent access to the game across all seasons.
Many of the teams that took part in the Glow in the Dark competition returned for the Indoor Bash, highlighting the growing appetite for regular, structured competition in a supportive environment. The league format provides an opportunity for players to build on their skills, strengthen team bonds and maintain momentum during the traditional off-season.
The competition is another milestone in a period of significant growth for the women’s game across the region. In 2025 alone, 513 women’s fixtures were played – an 87% increase on the previous year and more than six times the number of fixtures played in 2023. Eight new women’s teams were established in 2025, bringing the regional total to 60 teams across 38 active women’s sections.
Marsha Davies, Head of Female Participation at Durham Cricket Foundation, said: “Keeping women engaged beyond the summer season has been a key priority for us. The Indoor Bash allows players to continue developing their skills, stay connected with their teammates and enjoy competitive cricket in a structured but welcoming environment.
“What we’re seeing now is real consistency. Women aren’t just trying cricket for a few months, rather they are staying involved all year round. That consistency builds confidence, strengthens clubs and helps create a sustainable future for the women’s game in our region.”
By introducing innovative formats and removing traditional barriers to participation, Durham Cricket Foundation continues to expand access to cricket for women of all abilities. The combination of outdoor fixtures, Glow in the Dark cricket and the Indoor Bash has established a continuous playing pathway that supports both new and experienced players.
With strong team retention and growing demand, the Foundation is now planning ahead for the 2026 outdoor season, building on the momentum created over the winter months.
Durham Cricket Foundation remains committed to using creative, community-focused programmes to make cricket more accessible, inclusive and sustainable across the region.