LONDON, UK – The children’s charity Chance to Shine has demonstrated the power of cricket in a record-breaking way, bringing together 943 young people for the largest cricket lesson (single venue) in history. The monumental event took place at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 23, 2025, as part of the charity’s 20th-anniversary celebrations.
The record surpasses the previous best of 645 participants set in 2022. For over two decades, Chance to Shine has used cricket to inspire and educate young people, providing free programs that teach life skills through sport. This record-breaking lesson was a powerful visual representation of that mission.
The lesson, led by Chance to Shine Schools Programme Manager Ian Gregory, saw children from 35 schools across the country take part in a 30-minute lesson focused on the “cool catcher” technique. The students practiced their skills in both individual and paired drills, with a Guinness World Records adjudicator on hand to ensure every rule was followed.
Adding to the excitement, TV star and former Gladiator, Jodie Ounsley, joined the event, bringing an extra layer of inspiration for the young participants.
“The day served as a powerful visual representation of the scale and ethos of our charity,” said Chance to Shine CEO Kate Stephens. “It is not often you get to be world record beaters and play on the outfield at Lord’s…and we hope that for everyone taking part, it was a day to remember.”
By setting a new world record at the “Home of Cricket,” Chance to Shine not only celebrated its milestone anniversary but also provided a day that thousands of young people will likely cherish for years to come, proving that cricket is more than just a game.
