Girls’ cricket future begins at U-16 hubs

The Cricket West Indies (CWI) Under-16 Girls Hub programme, August 15 to September 3, in partnership with the T&T Women’s Cricket Association (TTWCA), is exposing young girls to the fundamentals of cricket as part of a long-term strategic plan to develop the next generation of highly skilled West Indies women’s cricketers.

The enthusiastic response from parents and guardians, as well as the 80-90 girls who have registered, is a clear sign that interest in women’s cricket in T&T is thriving.

The programme is taking place at three venues—Macaulay Park, California, home of Caldrac Achievers Women’s Cricket Club, the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Field at the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, home of the UWI Women’s Cricket Club, and Shaw Park, Tobago.

The programme’s comprehensive approach caters to every girl, regardless of her prior experience. Whether she is a complete novice, has only played windball, or is a seasoned hardball cricketer, the programme offers a supportive environment for growth. Qualified and experienced coaches facilitate the basics of batting, bowling, and fielding, but their role goes well beyond the technical drills.

Building the all-round cricketer

A defining feature of the hubs is the inclusion of classroom sessions that involve discussions on becoming a well-rounded cricketer, including the mental and strategic aspects of the game. This holistic approach ensures that the girls understand that cricket is as much about the mind as it is about physical fitness and technical skills. They learn about the importance of fitness, nutrition, teamwork, and the mindset required for high-level competition, which is a crucial part of the development pathway.

The programme’s true value lies in its role as a feeding system for the inaugural regional U-16 girls’ competition in 2026. This new competition will be a fitting way to celebrate a major milestone in West Indies women’s cricket history: the 50th anniversary of the West Indies women’s first Test match, which was played against Australia in Montego Bay, Jamaica, in May 1976. By establishing these hubs, Cricket West Indies (CWI) is ensuring a consistent pipeline of well-prepared talent to fill the teams for this historic new tournament and future senior squads.

Empowering a new generation of female coaches

The CWI U-16 Girls Hub programme is not only for the players; it’s also a powerful tool for the development of female cricket coaches. By creating a high-quality, professional environment, the programme provides invaluable opportunities for women who are already coaching to gain practical experience and refine their skills. They work with large groups of girls from diverse backgrounds, which enables them to adapt their teaching methods and expand their coaching portfolios.

Moreover, the programme actively encourages more women to get into coaching. When young girls see women leading sessions, it serves as a powerful source of inspiration, breaking down traditional gender barriers in the sport. These hubs showcase coaching as a viable and rewarding career path, demonstrating that it involves more than just technical skills—it also requires leadership, sports psychology, and strategic thinking. This initiative is laying the groundwork for a sustainable ecosystem where female cricketers can grow into mentors and leaders, ensuring that the future of West Indies women’s cricket is guided by a diverse and talented group of individuals.

In essence, the CWI U-16 Girls Hub programme is a forward-thinking investment that’s already paying dividends. The incredible turnout and the passion on display at these venues are proof that a brighter future for women’s cricket is not just a dream but a tangible reality. It’s a journey that began with a single Test match 50 years ago, and with initiatives like this, it’s set to achieve even greater heights.

It would be remiss to overlook the valuable support that parents, grandparents, other family members, and guardians are providing to the girls. These dedicated individuals are the true silent partners in this initiative. They are the ones who manage the logistics, ensuring their girls arrive on time, provide transportation to and from the venues, and offer constant encouragement. Their commitment goes beyond just dropping off and picking up; it’s about nurturing a dream and a passion for cricket. Their support is an essential foundation upon which the future of West Indies women’s cricket is to be built.