Clubs might not always be able to recreate the T20 Blast atmosphere at their home grounds but there are a number of things you can do to ensure a lively, fun environment for players and supporters. See above the video of Hatherley Hurricanes in Gloucestershire to watch what can be done.
Help for your club...
For clubs looking to maximise their T20 Blast feel, the ECB can assist in a number of ways:
Match balls
As part of the entry fee, each club will receive six pink match balls, which will give your competition a unique look and feel.
Kit/equipment
Clubs are encouraged to wear coloured kit (or shirts) where possible. The Serious Cricket online shop is the perfect place to find your bespoke U19 Club T20 branded kit. You don't need to stop at shirts and trousers – coloured stumps and zing bails are always a winner!
Music
Playing music during the match is a great way to replicate the excitement of a T20 Blast fixture. To avoid issues with PRS and PPL licences (the right to play registered music in public), we have created our own U19 T20 music “stings” to use. These are available as MP3 files via soundcloud - click here to listen and download.
We strongly recommend that, unless your club holds a PRS or PPL licence, you should not use any other music as part of your matches, as this is illegal. Clubs may also wish to check with the local council about any issues with playing music after a certain time during the evening, especially in residential areas.
For more details about PRS and PPL licences, please visit www.prsformusic.com or click here.
Marketing
This is a great opportunity to raise the profile of your team, the competition and the club in general.
Your “marketing” can be internal and external, e.g. making the whole club aware of what the competition is and fixture dates, and encouraging senior players to come out to support the U19s.
With the focus on creating a great atmosphere, U19 Club T20 is also a great means of reaching new areas of your local community.
Be as creative as you like with your marketing material!
Click here to view and download official Vitality Blast marketing materials.
View and download our Digital Markerting Guide here.
Event Management
Planning what happens off the field for each fixture is very important.Look at ways to engage with spectators as well. Could you run a prize draw/raffle or fundraising events at each home match?
A BBQ and an open bar are other great ways to add to a fun outing for spectators. Alcohol must only be consumed by over 18s, and we recommend this is done in moderation.