Challengers

 A new initiative seeking to bridge the gap between recreational and professional cricket in the UK.

In a move towards long-term development and opportunity for high-level competition in cricket, the NCCA has created ‘The Challengers’. An initiative that nurtures talent across both the Men’s and Women’s game, competing under one unified umbrella against professional-level teams.

This squad provides an opportunity for aspiring players to transition from grassroots cricket to the professional game. It involves further training and development from experienced coaches nationwide and allows for competition against some of the best professional and first-class Counties. 

Neatly settling into the gap between the NCCA (National Counties Cricket Association) and 1st Class Cricket, it moves beyond competing at the semi-professional level into competing at higher standards against professional squads. 

In the absence of an official NCCA team in the women’s game, the Challengers will present an opportunity for aspiring female cricketers to showcase their talents within a competitive format.

Currently, there are 8 first-class counties and an additional 30 regional teams. The women’s professional cricketing structure includes a tiered system. Tier 1 comprises the elite first-class counties, while Tier 2 and 3 accommodate the remaining regional teams, providing opportunities for players of varying skill levels.

Under the Challengers, we’ll be essential in bridging the gap between Tier 1 and 2. This ensures that talent in the women’s game continues developing and gives further opportunities to aspiring female cricketers. 

There will be a new brand identity, a new unique kit for both the men's and women’s teams, and a fresh logo. The team will sit underneath the NCCA umbrella, but it will be part of a separate scheme, the Challengers.