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D.I.Y. backyard cricket set-up: cricket pitch and stumps

Image of completed pitch with a wheelie bin and bat with ball

Overview

We’ve created the ultimate guide to backyard cricket, starting with the basics: the pitch and wheelie bin stumps. Transform your garden into a wicket-worthy oval, perfect for neighbourhood matches or practising your bowling or batting skills.

To create your very own cricket wicket and stumps, you’ll need a patch of grass large enough to be your oval, as well as some basic gardening equipment, including a lawn mower. You’ll also need to borrow your household bin for your stumps.

Steps

  1. 1

    Work with your space

    Carefully consider your space. Work out the best direction for your pitch to run, taking into consideration which end you will bat from and allow a run-up for the bowler. The last thing you want is broken windows or dented cars so try to plan for the batter to be hitting away from those things.

    Mark out roughly where your pitch will start and end to use as a bit of guide when mowing. We’re using these stakes as a guide.

    Bunnings team member kneeling down using a hammer on a garden stake
  2. 2

    Create your pitch

    Using your mower on a lower setting, mow in your pitch using the stakes as a guide.

      
    Team member mowing the lawn
  3. 3

    Roll your pitch

    Now mowing could be enough for your backyard match to begin, but if you want to take your pitch to the next level, roll the pitch to compact the turf and ground. You can do this using an old drum or a garden roller if you have one.

    Bunnings team member using a garden roller on the lawn
  4. 4

    Add sand

    If the grass is damp or soft, you’ll need to add some sand. This will help maintain the shorter grass and make the pitch faster.
    Bunnings team member adding sand on the lawn
  5. 5

    Mark the crease

    To make sure there are no disputes, we’re going to add a line using white marking paint (or landscapers chalk).

    Use a broom or piece of timber to create a straight line, then put on a safety mask, goggles and gloves. Spray along the line with your paint or chalk to create your crease.

    This paint won’t kill the grass but you may need to refresh the line every couple of days (depending on rain/watering/how many times the bowler hits it!)

    Bunnings team member spray painting a line with a piece of timber as a guide
  6. 6

    Create the stumps

    We’re going to use the wheelie bin as stumps. Measure out the size of your stumps and draw an outline on the back of self-adhesive film or contact. Cut out the outline to create your stumps.

    It’s easier to stick your stumps onto the bin lying down. So, lay your bin on its side and stick on the self-adhesive. Leave to dry for 10 minutes or so.

    Bunnings team member masking up a wheelie bin
  7. 7

    Game on

    Place your wicket at the right end of the pitch. Now, it’s game time!

    The pitch will require a bit of maintenance – you’ll need to mow and roll it regularly to keep it short. Don’t forget to keep the water up on those hot summer days!

    Applying a fertiliser to the grass once a week will also help keep your backyard pitch match ready.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: If you’re using a bin that’s not your household council bin, it’s a great place to store your cricket or sports equipment, such as the bat and balls.
  8. 8

    Find what you need

    Make sure your pitch has the right bounce with adequate preparation. Explore our turf rollers and sand options.
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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.