It’s an Ashes summer. Up and down the country people are glued to their televisions and radios as the tension and drama unfolds. There are very few sporting events that can match this intense rivalry. England and Australia always seem to serve up some gripping contests.

Children love to try to emulate their idols. They fall in love with sport when their parents introduce them to it. There’s something very different about cricket. It’s a real challenge and test. Not just physically, but mentally too. This summer’s test series might just inspire a new generation of young players to pick up a bat and ball.

Cricket isn’t the cheapest or most affordable sport to get them started in. It’s not like football where they can just have a kick around with their mates in the park. They’re going to need the right cricket gear and to get involved with a local club. It takes coaching, guidance and patience for them to get to grips with what’s required in this game.

Shopping for cricket supplies online is a great way to save a bit of money. At first especially, there’s no point in going overboard if they’re only going to lose interest and move onto something else. Some good entry level pads, gloves and helmet won’t cost too much and they’re going to need a decent bat too.

Kitted out they’re ready to get started. Stints in the nets with a club coach helps to build their confidence ready to take to the field in a competitive game. It’s such an absorbing and thrilling sport with so many different disciplines required. They might turn out to be an intimidating fast bowler, an agile wicket keeper or an unflappable batsmen. One things for sure, they’ll have loads of fun along the way. It’s great sport to get them started in.