What are the Australian junior cricket match formats, and which age group plays each?
Guideline- Australia
- Cricket Australia
- Junior formats
- Stage 1
- Stage 2
- Under 10-Under 13
- 2026/27
- Coaches
Cricket Australia's "Australian Junior Cricket Match Formats" set out detailed match-day rules for each stage:
| Stage | Purpose | Format | Indicative age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Learning the sport | 15 to 20 overs a side, modified ball | Under 11 and younger |
| Stage 2 | Playing and competing | 20 to 30 overs a side, 142 g ball | Under 12 and Under 13 |
Both are for community clubs and schools and call for an accredited coach. In both, batters retire after a set number of balls so that everyone gets to bat, and coaches are encouraged to give everyone a go at bowling and fielding.
This guide covers Stages 1 and 2 only. Local associations apply these formats with their own match-day rules.
Updated 22 Oct 2026