Quick Cricket with a Paddle Bat
A school version of cricket where the batter guards a wicket with a flat bat and runs between two spots every time they hit, while the fielding team tries to knock the wicket down. Students work on striking, catching, throwing, and decision-making.
How to play
- Set up two fields: each has two wickets made from a pole standing in a cone, 12 m apart. Teams of 6, one batting and one fielding on each field (3 minutes).
- Explain the roles: the bowler throws underhand with one bounce before the batter; the batter guards the wicket; fielders spread out around them (2 minutes).
- Practice: each batter gets 4 throws without running to try hitting forward and to the sides (5 minutes).
- Game: every time the batter hits, they must run to the other wicket and back; each trip scores one run. The batter is out if the wicket is knocked down, the hit is caught in the air, or the fielders knock the wicket over before they get back (8 minutes).
- Each batter gets 6 throws even if they're out: an out costs 3 runs and they keep batting. Switch roles for another 8 minutes.
- Two-minute wrap-up: add up runs and discuss when it was worth running.
Rules
- Always drop the bat on the ground before running; never throw it.
- Bowling is underhand and must bounce once before reaching the batter.
- Fielders stay more than 5 m from the batter.
- Only the bowler may stand in front of the far wicket.
Variations
Easier
The batter hits the ball off the top of a cone, with no bowler.
Standard
One-bounce bowling, 6 throws per batter, and outs that cost runs.
Harder
Bat in pairs, one at each wicket, both running and crossing at the same time.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: bat while seated with a partner running for them, or serve as the regular bowler.
- Visual impairment: use a larger beeper ball rolled along the ground.
- Weaker hitters: bowl from closer or let them hit off a cone.
Learning goals
- Hit the ball with a flat bat into open spaces.
- Decide when to run based on where the fielders are.
- Work together on defense to field the ball and return it to the wicket.
Equipment for a class of 25
- soft bats: 4
- soft balls: 4
- cones: 8
- poles: 4
Teacher tip
Point both fields in the same direction so no balls fly toward the other group. If you don't have flat bats, large paddleball paddles work fine.
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