We are pleased to share an important update about the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation’s (YCF) future direction.
After extensive consultation, reflection, and planning, we are proud to launch our new strategic framework: A New Horizon, a bold step that strengthens our purpose, sharpens our focus, and positions us to make an even greater impact across Yorkshire.
Our Purpose
We use cricket to enrich lives and communities across Yorkshire.
Our Vision
By 2030, YCF will be recognised as a force for positive change using cricket to inspire healthier, happier and more connected communities and create lasting social impact.
Our Mission
We bring people together through cricket – enriching lives, supporting wellbeing and ensuring everyone in Yorkshire can access and enjoy the game.
Introducing YCF’s New Structure to Grow Cricket Across Yorkshire
We’re excited to launch our new Enablement and Cricket teams, led by Managing Director Shariq Mumtaz, to support and grow cricket across Yorkshire. Our work is guided by YCF’s DNA – People, Places, Partners and Play – alongside our organisational values and EDI commitments, ensuring cricket is safe, accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone across Yorkshire.
Moving from Regions to Areas
As part of the A New Horizon strategy, we are transitioning from a regional delivery model to a more connected and efficient area-based approach. This evolution reflects what we have heard and learnt from clubs, leagues, partners, and communities across Yorkshire.
Key reasons for the change:
Stronger Local Relationships – Areas allow our teams to work more closely with community partners, clubs, leagues, schools and local groups. This means greater responsiveness, deeper
understanding of local needs, and enhanced collaboration.
Better Alignment with Communities – By changing to an area model this allows us to focus on need, accessibility, and opportunities leading to better alignment with our communities.
More Consistent Support Across Yorkshire – The move enables us to reduce duplication, streamline delivery, and ensure that every part of Yorkshire receives the same high-quality support and opportunities.
Clearer Communication and Engagement – Areas provide clarity so people know who their YCF contact is and how to access support. This means clearer pathways for clubs, leagues, volunteers, and community groups.
Focus on Social Impact – Our purpose is to enrich lives and communities, and this structure ensures we can measure, understand, and grow the positive impact cricket has across Yorkshire.
What this means for Clubs, Leagues, and Partners:
- There will be greater support, enabling the YCF to offer more targeted and effective support.
- Each area will have a dedicated YCF team with clear roles, better coordination, and a more community focused approach.
- The YCF will work with clubs across Yorkshire to provide a dedicated ‘Club Support Framework.’
- We will continue to work closely with Yorkshire County Cricket Club, local authorities, funding partners, schools, community organisations, and all who share our ambitions.
There will be a transition period over the coming months as everyone moves into their new roles and the restructure takes shape, with everything set to be fully established by October. This phased approach allows for a smooth handover throughout the season and ensures there is no impact on cricket and community delivery in Yorkshire.
Statement from Shariq Mumtaz, Managing Director, YCF:
“The New Horizon Strategy marks an exciting moment for the YCF. The YCF’s purpose is simple but powerful: to enrich lives through cricket. The strategy provides the structure, focus, and ambition needed to achieve this purpose at scale. Moving to areas is not just an operational shift, it is a commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and community-led delivery. Together with our partners, we look forward to shaping a brighter, more connected future for people across Yorkshire.”
Statement from Catherine Douglas, Chair, YCF:
“This is about unlocking the true power of cricket – its ability to bring people together, improve wellbeing, and strengthen communities. Our shift to an area-based model ensures we are closer to
the people we serve and better positioned to deliver meaningful, lasting impact across Yorkshire. We are grateful to all our partners and cricketing communities for their ongoing support and
collaboration.”
For more information and to view the YCF structure please click here.
