Junior Cricket

Merivale-Papanui Cricket Club actively supports Junior Cricket in Christchurch . We see it as very important to  provide a fun place for younger players to become introduced to and learn about the game. You can learn more about Junior Cricket at MPCC from the rest of this page.

If you have any queries or want to get in touch please contact Michael Oliver via this address:

Email: Michael Oliver

How does the junior cricket section operate?

Merivale-Papanui Cricket Club enters teams in the junior competitions administered by the Christchurch Junior Cricket Association.

How many teams are there?

In the 2007/08 season we fielded 14 teams.

How long does the season go for?

The season will begin on October 18th 2008. Last games before the Christmas break will be played on December 20th. The season will resume on January 31st 2009, and run until March 28th.

When are the games played?

On Saturday mornings. Senior & Junior 1-day start at 9am, Super 8s at 9-15, Junior 20/20 at 9-30, and Kiwi Cricket at 10am. This means that all grades should finish around noon.

Where are the games played?

All over Christchurch . Where possible the draw is regionalised so that teams don’t have to travel too far from home. Some grades are played at our home ground, Edgar MacIntosh Park .

What about practices?

Teams practice once a week, the time and day depends on the coach.

How old do I have to be?

We offer cricket from players from Year 1 to Year 8.

Do both boys and girls play?

Of course! Unfortunately we don’t have enough girls at present to fill a girls-only side but most girls are happy to play in mixed teams.

What gear do I need?

Once you have registered you will receive a blue club playing shirt. Aside from this, you will need to provide your own clothing (white shorts or trousers are compulsory).

Playing equipment is provided by the club, however many players like to buy and use their own bats and protective equipment. Helmets are compulsory in Senior and Junior 1-day.

What sort of cricket is provided?

There are four types of cricket available at our club:

• Kiwi Cricket, for Year 2 & under. Every player bats and bowls. For beginners.
• Junior 20/20, for Year 4 & under. Players bat in pairs for five overs each, regardless of number of dismissals. Every player bowls.
• Junior Super 8s (Year 6 & under). Each team has two 12-over innings. Players are replaced when dismissed, but may return in either innings once the whole team has batted. Batters retire after facing 18 balls. Every player bowls.
• Junior 1-day (Year 6 & under) or Senior 1-day (Year 8 & under). Traditional cricket rules, 25 overs per side.

Full playing conditions are available at www.cjca.org.nz.

Which sort of cricket should I play?

This depends on age, experience, and confidence. We are happy to guide you if you are unsure.

How are the teams picked? ?

The only team selected as a result of a trial is our top Senior 1-day side. The rest of the teams are by player choice, keeping past team mates, school mates, and friends together where possible. New players are integrated into teams of similar age and experience.

What sort of coaching will I get?

We are lucky to have a positive dedicated “team” of parents and helpers, who believe in full participation for all players to maximise enjoyment. We also utilise professional Canterbury Cricket coaches where appropriate during the summer, as well as Senior club members.

How much will it cost me?

Subs for 2008/09 are $50 for Kiwi cricket and $60 for other grades. Discounts are applicable for two or more players in one family.

How do I sign up?

Registration days are to be held at the clubrooms, Edgar MacIntosh Park, Condell Ave, Papanui, on Saturday 6th September and Saturday 13th September 2008, between 10 a.m. and 12 noon. If you can’t attend, drop me a line through the website and we will make other arrangements.

Email: Michael Oliver

There’s still more I need to know!

Then please contact Michael as above. We look forward to hearing from you.