The Essential Junior Cricket Starter Kit
Starting cricket doesn’t require a huge amount of equipment. In fact, one of the biggest misconceptions for new families is the idea that juniors need every piece of protective gear from day one. The truth is much simpler: young players only need a small number of well‑fitted essentials to begin safely and confidently.
This guide breaks down exactly what belongs in a junior starter kit, why each item matters, and how to choose equipment that supports comfort, safety, and early development.
1. Bat
A junior bat is the heart of the starter kit. It should be:
- Light enough to lift easily with one hand
- Balanced through the swing
- Sized correctly for the player’s height
A bat that’s too heavy or too long makes cricket harder than it needs to be. A well‑fitted bat helps juniors learn proper technique and enjoy batting from the very first session.
2. Pads
Pads protect the legs and give juniors the confidence to face the ball. Good junior pads should be:
- Lightweight
- Secure around the calf
- Comfortable and non‑bulky
Pads should cover the ankle, shin, and knee roll without reaching the thigh. If they twist or slip, they’re the wrong size.
3. Gloves
Junior gloves protect small hands from impact and help players grip the bat properly. Look for:
- Smaller finger compartments
- Soft, flexible padding
- A snug wrist strap
Gloves that are too big make gripping the bat difficult and reduce control.
4. Helmet
A helmet is essential for safety and confidence, especially as juniors progress into hardball cricket. A good junior helmet should:
- Fit firmly without wobbling
- Sit comfortably on the forehead
- Offer clear vision through the grill
Adjustable padding helps achieve a secure, comfortable fit. We also highly recommend fitting a neck protector (StemGuard) to the back of the helmet, as it provides additional protection around the vulnerable neck area and is now widely used across the game.
5. Clothing
Junior cricket clothing should support movement and comfort. Look for:
- Breathable fabrics
- Comfortable waistbands
- Good shoulder mobility
- Stretch panels for athletic movement
Comfortable clothing helps juniors stay focused and enjoy the game.
6. Kit Bag
A simple junior kit bag keeps everything organised and easy to carry. It doesn’t need to be large — just big enough for the essentials.
Optional Extras (For Later)
As juniors progress, they may add:
- Thigh pads
- Arm guards
- Batting inners
- Specialist cricket shoes
- Chest guards
These are useful for hardball cricket but not essential for beginners.
Coach’s Tip
Start with the basics. Well‑fitted, lightweight equipment helps juniors move naturally, learn faster, and enjoy cricket far more than a bag full of unnecessary extras. Confidence grows when gear feels comfortable — not when it’s expensive or oversized.
