Refugee Cricket Project

Our Refugee Cricket Project uses cricket to bring together young refugees who are living alone. Many have fled their countries to escape war. Run in partnership with The Refugee Council it offers access to a sport they love in safe environment.

Participants play regular cricket, get a chance to improve their English and discuss any problems they're having among friends.   Already 15 players have been integrated into mainstream cricket clubs.


Here is a harrowing story of one refugee we've worked with. To avoid compromising his safety we haven't identified him:
 


Born in Jalalabad, the Taliban were regular visitors to this village. His uncle joined the Taliban and tried to recruit his father too, threatening him with violence and saying they would kill his son if he refused.

Following this experience, our RCP player was then first sent into the mountains and then onto Pakistan before seeking refuge in the UK.  Through our Refugee Cricket Project he has found friendship and is now the Captain of our Afghan team.

He has brought other young Afghan's to the project and become a real leader for the group. He is still at risk of being sent home although we are working hard to ensure the government allows him to stay.  His long term aim is to become a Doctor.