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We’ve created the ultimate guide to backyard cricket, starting with the basics: the pitch and wheelie bin stumps. Transform your garden into a wicket-worthy oval, perfect for neighbourhood matches or practising your bowling or batting skills.
To create your very own cricket wicket and stumps, you’ll need a patch of grass large enough to be your oval, as well as some basic gardening equipment, including a lawn mower. You’ll also need to borrow your household bin for your stumps.
Carefully consider your space. Work out the best direction for your pitch to run, taking into consideration which end you will bat from and allow a run-up for the bowler. The last thing you want is broken windows or dented cars so try to plan for the batter to be hitting away from those things.
Mark out roughly where your pitch will start and end to use as a bit of guide when mowing. We’re using these stakes as a guide.
Using your mower on a lower setting, mow in your pitch using the stakes as a guide.
Now mowing could be enough for your backyard match to begin, but if you want to take your pitch to the next level, roll the pitch to compact the turf and ground. You can do this using an old drum or a garden roller if you have one.
To make sure there are no disputes, we’re going to add a line using white marking paint (or landscapers chalk).
Use a broom or piece of timber to create a straight line, then put on a safety mask, goggles and gloves. Spray along the line with your paint or chalk to create your crease.
This paint won’t kill the grass but you may need to refresh the line every couple of days (depending on rain/watering/how many times the bowler hits it!)
We’re going to use the wheelie bin as stumps. Measure out the size of your stumps and draw an outline on the back of self-adhesive film or contact. Cut out the outline to create your stumps.
It’s easier to stick your stumps onto the bin lying down. So, lay your bin on its side and stick on the self-adhesive. Leave to dry for 10 minutes or so.
Place your wicket at the right end of the pitch. Now, it’s game time!
The pitch will require a bit of maintenance – you’ll need to mow and roll it regularly to keep it short. Don’t forget to keep the water up on those hot summer days!
Applying a fertiliser to the grass once a week will also help keep your backyard pitch match ready.
Now that you’ve got your cricket pitch and stumps set up, it’s time to create your scoreboard. Watch our guide on how to create a scoreboard and style your stadium.
