Following a comprehensive training and mentorship programme, the Surrey Cricket Foundation took Team England to the Street Child United Cricket World Cup in Chennai, India, in September 2023. The tournament was a life-changing experience for the eight young people who represented Team England, and they competed admirably against nations from all over the world.
On the cricket field, Team England got to play in a new and exciting “Street20” format which was fast paced and encouraged lots of big hitting and clever bowling. They won three of their five group stage matches to reach the quarter-finals, where they faced Bangladesh. The quarter-final was a closely contested match, but Team England unfortunately lost on the last ball of the game. Despite the disappointing result, the team upheld the spirit of the game throughout the tournament.
In addition to the cricket, the young people also participated in a variety of arts sessions. These sessions provided them with an opportunity to express themselves creatively and learn about different cultures. Team England also performed at the nightly “Late Show,” where they shared some of their English culture with the other nations.
Arguably the most important part of the experience was the Congress and General Assembly. This provided Team England with a platform to discuss the challenges faced by street-connected young people in England and share their experiences with others from around the world. The young people spent several sessions formulating ideas and creating their demands, which they brought back to England in the form of their Declaration. The Declaration will now be used to promote and push for the support and protection of the rights of young people throughout England.
Elliott Rousen, Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Surrey Cricket Foundation, said: “I am incredibly proud of Team England. They represented themselves, and all other young people throughout the country, exceptionally. Throughout the event they carried themselves with respect and integrity and are true credits to themselves and to those who have supported their journeys. It was a truly life changing experiences for the eight young people who came to Chennai with us, and I have no doubt they will take the lessons learnt and conversations had and use them to push for the rights of young people across the country.”
