French Cricket

Learning Outcomes

Improve bat–ball coordination and controlled striking.

Develop quick reaction time by defending the legs from the bowled ball.

Enhance awareness and footwork while maintaining balance.

Demonstrate teamwork, fair play, and basic fielding techniques.

Description Of Activity

French Cricket is a fun striking-and-fielding game where the batter stands still with feet together, holding the bat in front of their legs. The objective is to protect the legs from being hit by the ball.

• One student is the batter standing with feet together.
• Fielders stand around the batter in a circle.
• Any fielder can attempt an underarm throw to hit the batters legs.
• The batter must hit the ball without moving their feet from the original position.
• If the batter successfully hits the ball, the fielder who collects it becomes the next thrower.

The batter is OUT if:

• The ball hits their legs.
• They move their feet while playing the shot.
• Their hit is caught by a fielder.
• The player who gets the batter out becomes the next batter.

Variations

360° Turn Allowed: Batter can rotate but cannot move feet.

Restricted Bowlers: Only 1–2 designated bowlers allowed.

Bounce Throw: Ball must bounce once before reaching the batter.

Timed Challenge: Each batter gets 60 seconds — count number of hits they defend.

Team French Cricket: Divide into two teams; one team bats one by one, score points for each successful defend.

Coaching Tips

Encourage soft hands and controlled tapping shots.
• Remind fielders to use accurate underarm throws.
• Ensure the batter keeps feet stable—no stepping.
• Position fielders at different distances to create challenge.
• Promote safe and fair play.

Equipment/Material Required

1 light plastic cricket bat
1 soft tennis ball
Markers or cones to define playing circle (optional)