The Participation Test: Why is the 3rd Ashes test called the Participation test?

The Participation Test: Why is the 3^rd Ashes test called the Participation test? Here’s everything you need to know about the partnership between ECB and Sky Sports.

In an effort to promote inclusivity and diversity, The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Sky Sports have joined hands to focus on a series of key initiatives to make cricket more accessible to a wider array of audience.

A lot has been made about the Participation test with it being displayed regularly on the screen. While this is not the first time the ECB has taken such an initiative, not many are aware of the undertakings. They have instead found themselves asking ‘What is the Participation Test?’

As mentioned in the paragraph above, ECB have taken it upon themselves to promote diversity. They are hoping to make the sport more inclusive to its audience at all levels. This initiative will be played out in the ongoing third Ashes test between England and Australia at Headingly. This Test Match will be known as ‘The Participation Test’. It will also showcase some of the most prominent moments featuring English cricket on the first three days.

Day 1- World Conquerors

The first day will allow the fans to relive England’s recent conquest of the World Cup in the just concluded Quadrennial event. According to ECB’s website: Managing Director of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, Steve Elworthy, and ECB Director of Participation & Growth, Nick Pryde, will reflect on the World Cup and discuss how ECB is capitalising on its success to inspire the next generation.

Day 2- South Asian engagement

Day 2 will focus on ECB’s engagement with the South Asian community in the country. ECB’s Senior Independent Non-Executive Board Member Lord Patel and Shruti Saujani, City Programme Manager will reveal how better access to cricket facilities in urban areas and recruiting South Asian female activators is making a difference.

Day 3- Physical Disabilty team

Day 3 will bring the limelight to England’s Physical Disability team; who were runners up in the inaugural, five-team World Series last week. The tournament was won by India but the English team gained immense confidence and are eager now to better themselves.

Sky Sports will go behind the scenes with the heroes. Ian Martin, ECB’s Head of Disability Cricket, hopes that it will inspire more people, both disabled and able-bodied, to pick up a bat and ball and discover that cricket is a game for them.

Not the first time

The Participation Test, as an initiative, began last year when England faced Pakistan at Headingly. The Key initiative then was the same; to ensure grassroots participation remains as diverse and inclusive as possible.

Talking about The Participation Test last year, ECB Director of Participation and Growth, Matt Dwyer had said:

“Working with Sky during The Participation Test gives us a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the multitude of ways people can get involved in our sport; at every level.

“We want to inspire more people; no matter their background, gender or faith to pick up a bat and ball and have the opportunity to play and enjoy the game. We will also continue to support clubs to grow their player and volunteer base while recommending junior and senior formats to give players the games that they want.”

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