FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions – 2026 Season
What are the 2026 season dates?
The season will commence on Sunday 3rd May and run for 9 weeks, concluding on Sunday 28th June 2026.
I’m registered with a club team for summer – what do I do about a season permit?
If your child is currently registered with a club for the summer season, PlayHQ will prompt you to complete a Season Permit during registration.
Simply click through the “season permit across” prompt. Once approved, you can proceed with registration and payment.
For more detailed instructions, visit the Play Cricket Support website:
https://playcricketsupport.cricket.com.au/hc/en-us/articles/6957106664079-What-is-a-Player-Led-Season-Permit-and-how-can-I-apply
Why is the competition smaller in 2026?
Based on feedback received, we are reducing the number of matches played each day from three to two.
This change allows:
A later start time (first match at 9:00am instead of 8:00am)
More time between matches (3.5 hours, up from 2 hours 45 minutes)
A better overall player experience with less rushing and fatigue
While we acknowledge that some teams and players may miss out in 2026—which we are disappointed about—we believe these changes will significantly improve the experience for those participating.
What time are matches played?
Matches are scheduled to start at:
9:00am
12:30pm
Do players need to be experienced?
No. We cater for all playing standards, from beginners to experienced players.
Do we need our own playing equipment?
Yes. Players must supply their own personal equipment, including:
Bat
Pads
Gloves
Helmet
Box
Some teams may have spare gear available, but this should be confirmed directly with your team manager.
What equipment is supplied by the competition?
In 2026, every team will be supplied with:
1 set of stumps
Bails
Fielding markers
Match balls
Team kit bag
This equipment is included in the registration cost and does not need to be returned at the end of the season.
What do players wear?
Players can wear:
Normal cricket whites, or
A club t-shirt with white pants
Teams are also welcome to design and wear their own uniforms, including custom colours and designs.
Where are games played?
Matches are played across the following LGAs:
Blacktown
Campbelltown
Canada Bay
Canterbury-Bankstown
Centennial Parklands & Moore Park Trust
Ku-ring-gai
Liverpool
North Sydney
Northern Beaches
Penrith
Please refer to the “Regions We Play” section of the website for detailed location information.
Are umpires supplied for each game?
No. Team managers or coaches will officiate matches.
Can my child play up an age group?
Yes.
You must register your child in the age group based on their date of birth. Once registered, please forward the registration confirmation along with your request to move age groups.
What is the cost?
Individual registration costs $150 per player.
Do you accept Active Kids vouchers?
Yes, Active Kids vouchers are accepted.
Is there training?
No formal training is scheduled. Winter cricket is designed so it does not interfere with other winter sports.
If a team chooses to train, this is entirely up to the team manager and parents.
What are the age group cut-off dates?
U14: Under 14 as at midnight 31 August 2025
U12: Under 12 as at midnight 31 August 2025
U10: Under 10 as at midnight 31 August 2025
Will age groups be graded?
Some regions will offer multiple grades. Please refer to the “Regions We Play” section for details specific to your area.
How many players does each team need?
U10: Up to 9 players per match (7 on the field at one time)
U12: Up to 11 players per match (9 on the field at one time)
U14: Up to 11 players per match
Who do I contact if I have further questions?
Please email:
info@sydneyjuniorwintercricket.au