Black Caps get kids hooked on cricket

Daniel Vettori watches as Malachai Peni, of Manurewa South Primary, takes a turn at bat. Picture / Brett Phibbs

More than 60 Auckland children from low-decile schools launched themselves into a special cricket tournament yesterday, supervised by the country's brightest cricket stars.

Several Black Caps including Daniel Vettori, Scott Styris and Kyle Mills took part in the Hooked On Cricket programme at the Papatoetoe Cricket Club.

The programme - organised by the New Zealand Cricket Players Association and supported by law firm Bell Gully - is a coaching clinic that culminates in a six-a-side tournament among eight primary schools in the region, each side captained by a guest cricketer.

"The children were quite reserved at first, but by the end of the day, they had relaxed and had the most amazing time," said Bell Gully chairman David Simcock.

"As well as providing a fun day for all involved, the programme also provides positive role models for young children in these communities. And who knows - we may well uncover our next generation of cricketing stars."

This is the inaugural year for the programme, which has its final day in Wellington today.