The majority of participants in the HCB Disability Cricket Program have either a Severe or Moderate Learning Disability. The classification of these levels of disability are broadly based around IQ (Severe 50 and below and Moderate 51-75).

Whilst many young people with learning disabilities attend Mainstream Schools, the majority attend Special Schools where they receive dedicated support from specialist teachers. Within these schools HCB deliver over 100 hours of coaching annually, teaching specific cricket skills, understanding of basic Kwik Cricket Rules and developing tactical awareness within match situations.

The extensive coaching program is followed by a series of three Kwik Cricket Festivals and runs alongside the Danny Bond League for Key Stage 4 pupils. DBL matches are played using pairs cricket rules and an incrediball; in past seasons this league has produced a number of Hampshire players and continues to provide a great opportunity for young cricketers to showcase their skills.

For young people with the most Severe Learning Disabilities we provide an adapted version of the game called Table Cricket, a fast moving game played on a table tennis table. This takes into account players' limited physical capabilities and its structure allows players to participate in as active a capacity as they like. The Stainer Cup Table Cricket Tournament, supported by the Joan Stainer Trust and Lord’s Taverners, takes place at the Rose Bowl annually.

Beyond the in-school opportunities the HCB are working to provide recreational, competitive and elite opportunities for school leavers and adults with learning disabilities. In 2009, we aim to have four disability cricket sections within mainstream clubs, four community groups delivering regular cricket coaching and two county squads providing opportunities for the elite to continue to progress.

The success of the existing system has been exemplified by the inclusion of four Hampshire Players with Learning Disabilities in the England Squad.