SMASH-IT & IT’S WICKET – FOCUS FOR 2026
As clubs start planning for the 2026 season, the National Programmes of Smash It and It’s Wicket are expected to play an expanded role in junior participation across CL clubs. Both programmes are designed to be fun, flexible and easy for clubs to run with some changes this year aimed at further simplifying programme delivery.
CHANGES TO SMASH-IT FOR 2026
For the Smash It programme, the big change for 2026 is that the €15.00 charge for each participant pack has been removed. Clubs can now determine what charge is appropriate for their club setting up to a maximum of €130.00 per person. There is even the option to provide Smash-It on a free-of-charge basis. The important point is that 100% of what is charged will accrue to the club. Every child will still receive a free Smash-It T-shirt, and the participant pack is now an optional extra, rather than a requirement.
It’s Wicket! continues to be a girls-only programme for 12–15 year olds, which again focuses on fun, confidence building and staying active with friends. Sessions mix cricket skills, small-sided games and interactive activities. For 2026, there are no changes to the programme, clubs can deliver It’s Wicket in ways that suit them - whether that’s a six-week block or a summer camp format.
WINTER BLITZ SERIES
Over the course of the winter months, there has been lots of National Programme activity in the form of blitz events, which were held across the province in 7 different areas (Fingal, Dublin City, South Dublin, DLR, Midlands, Meath and Wexford). The blitzes played a big role in introducing Smash It and It’s Wicket to new communities and clubs, particularly in areas where the programmes hadn’t been delivered before.
It gave clubs and local community groups valuable hands-on experience of being involved in the programmes and the Smash It and It's Wicket! brand for the first time. The response to the winter blitzes has been really positive, with several blitzes reaching capacity.
GROWING CLUB INTEREST FOR THE 2026 SEASON
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, we are already seeing an increased interest from clubs in adopting these programmes as the entry point to cricket for the early age players. We were delighted to partner with Stillorgan CC (CL’s newest club) to deliver activator training as part of their preparatory work for a full Smash-It programme during the summer.
Any club interested in delivering Smash-It or It’s Wicket in 2026 is encouraged to contact Killian Molloy, Cricket Leinster National Programme Co-Ordinator:
killian.molloy@cricketleinster.ie
Killian (supported by our CL team of Development Officers) will provide your club with full support and guide you through the process of activator training, registrations and gear delivery.
