Play Cricket in the UK or Europe
At CricX, we’re dedicated to creating life-changing opportunities for cricketers to play in the UK and Europe.
Over the past two decades, we’ve placed thousands of male and female cricketers with clubs across the UK, Ireland, Netherlands, and other European destinations. From London to Manchester, Dublin to Belfast, and Edinburgh to Amsterdam, we’ve helped players explore every corner of the Northern Hemisphere.
If you’re ready to join them, count on us as your trusted partner to make this happen!
Why CricX?
Looking to play cricket in the UK or Europe but don’t know where to start?
Welcome to CricX—the UK’s leading cricket agency, dedicated to matching cricketers with clubs across the UK and Europe. With over 20 years of experience and more than 5,000 successful placements, we connect players, both males and females, of all levels—from international and first-class pros to premier grade and amateur club players—with clubs in the Northern Hemisphere.
Our reputation for excellence has made us the go-to choice for cricketers worldwide looking to take their game overseas. Using our extensive network and personalized approach, we find each player their perfect club, creating overseas experiences that are memorable and rewarding.
With CricX, you’ll be supported every step of the way, from placement to end-of-season review.
Begin your journey today and secure your cricket placement in the UK or Europe.
Your cricketing adventure in the UK or Europe awaits!
At CricX we place cricketers of all abilities, both males and females, in the UK and across Europe.
Explore some of our popular locations below (with even more options available!).
Our CricX Team is on hand every step of the way…
The idea of traveling abroad to play cricket can feel overwhelming, but with CricX, it’s easier than you might think!
Our team of trusted agents, with over 40 years of combined experience, will support you through each step of the process. Every member of our team has firsthand experience playing all over the world and has helped thousands of cricketers secure clubs across the UK and Europe.
We know how valuable shared experiences are, so if you’re planning to travel and play alongside friends, we can connect you with clubs that accommodate this.
With our extensive experience and unmatched network of club connections, you’re in safe hands.
Why wait? Start your adventure with us today!
The team you’ll be working with…
James Cole
Senior Cricket Agent
James has been with the CricX team since 2017, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous role with Scorpion Cricket. Now serving as a Director, he leads our English amateur placements, leveraging his extensive industry connections to secure opportunities for players.
As captain of Northern CC, James has guided his team to multiple titles including the Liverpool League, Lancashire Cup, and the prestigious ECB National T20. With a background in Minor County cricket and five seasons playing in Australia, James’s knowledge and extensive network make him an invaluable asset to CricX, dedicated to providing amateur players with their perfect placement in England.
Dan Hancock
Senior Cricket Agent
Dan joined the CricX team in October 2024, following five successful years leading the Club Vitae agency.
With extensive industry knowledge and a rich cricketing background as a former Premier League captain, Minor Counties player, and active committee member, Dan brings a deep understanding of the recruitment process to CricX. Working closely with Steven, he plays a key role in placing professional cricketers, helping to provide rewarding opportunities for players across the UK and Europe.
Tyler McGladdery
Assistant Cricket Agent
Since joining CricX in 2022, Tyler has applied his extensive playing experience to place amateur cricketers throughout the UK and Europe. With a deep understanding of the global club scene, he skillfully matches players with their perfect opportunity overseas.
An accomplished cricketer himself, Tyler consistently ranks among the top run-scorers in the Liverpool Competition and has distinguished himself in County 2nd XI and NCCA cricket. His broad background, including experience in Australia and New Zealand, makes him an invaluable asset to our team, committed to arranging rewarding placements for cricketers across the UK and Europe.
Matt Taaffe
Social Media Manager
Matt joined the CricX team in June 2024, immediately enhancing our administrative operations and social media presence.
An accomplished Premier League cricketer with experience in Australia, Matt leads our social media strategy and serves as the primary contact for both players and clubs. His contributions are essential to our day-to-day operations, and he actively supports our team with placements across the UK and Europe, ensuring smooth and effective communication across all fronts at CricX.
Steven Hirst
Managing Director
Founder and Managing Director of CricX, Steven has over 20 years of experience in the industry. His passion and commitment to the company and its clients, not to mention his unrivaled knowledge and global access to clubs and cricketers alike, make him one of the most respected and diligent agents in the market.
A former overseas player himself, Steven deals with our professional placements in all territories of the world from UK club and county cricket to the ever-growing global Franchise market.
CricX In Numbers
Over 5000 Placements
Over 40m Web & Social Media Impressions
* data between 1 September 2023 and 1 September 2024
UK & Europe – Visas & Entry
You’ll need to apply for a relevant UK or European visa, and we recommend submitting your application well in advance of your travel date. We have outlined the most commonly used visa options available:
UK Visa Options
International Sportsperson Visa
You can apply for an International Sportsperson Visa (‘ISP’) if you meet the eligibility requirements and your sport’s governing body endorses your application, confirming:
- you’re an elite cricketer or qualified coach
- you’re internationally established
- your employment will develop cricket in the UK at the highest level
The ISP is available for professional cricketers and coaches in the following countries – England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, only.
You can apply for a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (‘YMV’) if you:
- want to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years
- are aged 18 to 30 or 18 to 35, depending on where you’re from
- have £2,530 in savings
- have certain types of British Nationality or are from certain countries or territories listed in the eligibility requirements.
The YMV allows cricketers to play in the UK as long as they are classified as “Amateurs” by the Home Office and only participate in predominantly amateur clubs or leagues. They may assist in coaching (if appropriately qualified and vetted) but only under the direct supervision of a certified coach. Employment is permitted, though not in roles as a sportsperson or coach.
As a Standard Visitor (“SVV”), you can travel to the UK for tourism, business, short-term study (courses up to 6 months), and other permitted activities, including playing amateur club cricket, provided it’s not the primary purpose of your visit.
Typically, you may stay in the UK for up to 6 months. However, to play cricket, you must be classified as an “Amateur” by the Home Office and may only participate as an amateur in a predominantly amateur club or league.
You can apply for a UK Ancestry Visa (‘AV’) if you’re one of the following:
- a Commonwealth citizen
- a British overseas citizen
- a British overseas territories citizen
- a British national (overseas)
- a citizen of Zimbabwe
You must also:
- prove one of your grandparents was born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man
- meet the other eligibility requirements
Please note: The information above has been drafted by CricX with the sole purpose of guiding cricketers planning to travel to the UK or Europe. This should not be interpreted as official Home Office guidance. CricX is not a registered immigration official therefore if you require official guidance please refer to the published pages on the GOV.UK visas and immigration website. Anyone wishing to travel to the UK or Europe to play cricket must ensure that all immigration conditions are adhered to.
European Visa Options
Schengen Visa (for multiple European countries)
A Schengen Visa is an entry permit for non-EU nationals to make a short, temporary visit of up to 90 days in any 180 days to a country in the Schengen area. Notable cricketing countries whose nationals are exempted from holding a Schengen Visa include Australia, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, and United Kingdom, and numerous Caribean countries including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago). The full exempt list can be seen here.
Short Stay ‘C’ Visit (Tourist) Visa – Republic of Ireland
If your country is on the exempt list (click here for details) you can enter the Republic of Ireland without a visa for up to 90 days. If you are from a visa-required country you will have to apply here. This ‘C’ Visit Visa does not permit paid employment.
Working Holiday Authorisation – Republic of Ireland
Ireland has reciprocal agreements with certain cricketing countries (Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Hong Kong), allowing young citizens from these nations to fund their holidays through casual work. The scheme is available to applicants aged 18 to 30.
Since citizens of these countries do not require a visa to enter Ireland, the program is not based on a visa but on a Working Holiday Authorisation. Participants are issued a document they must carry when traveling to Ireland and present upon request. This authorisation permits qualifying travelers to undertake casual or temporary work in Ireland without needing a work permit. It remains valid for employment only if the bearer also holds a valid Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) Registration Card. It’s recommended to apply for the GNIB card immediately upon arrival, either at the GNIB office at 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2 (for Dublin residents) or at your local Garda (police) station if outside Dublin.
Working Holiday Program – Netherlands
The Working Holiday Program (WHP) or Working Holiday Scheme (WHS) is a cultural exchange program between certain cricketing countries (Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Hong Kong) and the Netherlands. The scheme is for 18 to 30-year-olds and is valid for up to 1 year.
Work Permit (GVVA) – Netherlands
Foreign nationals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to work in the Netherlands for more than 3 months must meet several requirements. The appropriate visa for this purpose is the gecombineerde vergunning voor verblijf en arbeid (GVVA), or combined residence and work permit. Since the application process can take a considerable amount of time, it’s recommended to begin the process at least 3 months before your planned travel.
Seasonal Employment Permit – Republic of Ireland
Testimonials
CricX is excellent and easy to deal with
I found CricX and Steven Hirst excellent and easy to deal with.
I was delighted with the quick communication and professionalism in helping me secure a contract overseas. The services they offer players are vast and varied – everything is included down to the paperwork and help with visas.
I would happily recommend CricX if you are seeking overseas playing opportunities
BIG UP CRICX – THE WAY TO GO
As a first-timer abroad, I would like to thank CricX for affording me the opportunity.
They were also very professional and helpful with the whole visa documentation process which made it easier for me to go through. CricX also helped with flights through a travel agency that they partner with because had to book a flight and leave the very next day and that helped me with all the booking stress.
Above all when I met the team at one of the CricX T20 games and they were very friendly.
BIG UP CRICX – THE WAY TO GO!
CricX makes you a happy cricketer
CricX is a very good agency that will do the best they can to make you as happy cricketer. They’re very professional in what they do and look for your best interests.
I’d like to thank the CricX team for their hard work over the last few years
An all-round professional service
CricX has a loaded cliental and club database, with an all-round professional service connecting you to what you desire
Very easy to deal with and would definitely recommend CricX
CricX is very easy to deal with. I was impressed with the speed they helped me secure a contract and kept me informed throughout the process.
I found CricX to be great guys and I could communicate well with them on a relaxed level.
I would definitely recommend CricX to anyone wishing to secure a cricket contract
CricX has always managed to secure a deal for me
As a professional Sri Lankan cricketer, looking to play any standard of club cricket in the UK or Europe, you’re guaranteed to find a deal through CricX.
I can highly recommend Steven and his CricX team. When you need a club, they will find you a suitable deal. Also, they’ll look after you during the season.
Hundreds of Sri Lankan first-class players have come through CricX, so that gives you an idea of how popular the agency is in Sri Lanka. They provide you with a very good service.
Thanks to Steven and the CricX team for your great effort to support Sri Lankan cricket
I was so surprised at how quickly they were able to find me a club
It was the middle of February and despite attempts to source a club myself and via other agents, I was still without a club.
I contacted CricX and told them “I know it’s kind-of-late but I’m looking for a club for the coming season”. I was so surprised at how quickly they were able to find me a club and get all the necessary paperwork done.
I was available to play for my new club with time to spare before the start of the season!
CricX took out the hassle of negotiating a deal
I used CricX to find me a club in the UK and Steven worked hard behind the scenes to find exactly what I was looking for.
Using CricX was ideal in that it took me out of the hassle of negotiating a deal and I had very little to do other than sit back and sign on the dotted line.
Steven’s advice in regard to visa’s was also very helpful and I had no issues throughout my time in the UK and it was a fantastic experience
I have no hesitation in recommending CricX in player representation
The CricX team have been instrumental in placing a number of our cricketers from Jamaica within league structures in the UK.
I have found CricX to be very professional in their approach yet easy to work with and have no hesitation in recommending them in the area of player representation
Take advantage of CricX’s expertise – they make the process so easy
I dealt with CricX for several years and they make the process of traveling across the world to play cricket so stress free and easy.
They’re always super quick to respond to my emails and always work hard to secure you the best deal with clubs.
I would recommend anyone traveling to play cricket, wherever it may be in the world, to definitely take advantage of CricX’s expertise
I recommend CricX to any player wanting to play abroad
CricX has been great for me to help find clubs in England and Scotland, where I subsequently played for the national side in the CB40 competition.
They have always been very efficient when communicating and do a great job of seeing that their clients are happy. I know the many clubs that are on their books have good relations with them and find CricX good to deal with.
CricX has also helped me find sub-pro games which has also added to my experience in the UK. I recommend CricX to any player wanting to head overseas and play abroad!
CricX is the perfect starting point to guarantee finding the right club
My first English summer of cricket was one of the best experiences of my life. My club was amazing to me. They were so welcoming at the start and throughout the year. The friendships I have made have only grown stronger. All of this was made possible by the CricX team and I thank them very much for giving me this opportunity.
I encourage any young cricketer to experience an English summer of cricket. CricX is the perfect starting point to guarantee you will find a UK club that best suits you!
CricX provide you with security and the best opportunities out there
For a professional cricketer there is one thing that you seek but very rarely find in our profession – security. However, what I found when I dealt with CricX was that they could provide exactly that.
Travelling over to the UK is often full of the unknown for a Kiwi but CricX made everything easy. Whether it was quality of opportunity, negotiation of deals, or even exchange of contracts, everything was done with speed and with prompt communication.
If you are looking to find a cricket club in the UK then I would suggest utilising CricX’s services as they will provide you with the best opportunities out there and with a minimum of hassle. CricX have definitely provided me with security for my cricketing future and I would not hesitate in using them again
I would recommend CricX to anyone keen to play in the UK
The thought of playing cricket in the UK was made a lot easier when I got in contact with the CricX team.
Having had no overseas experience and limited contacts in the UK, CricX made my job of finding a club that suited me and would help develop my career super easy. Not only did they give me a variety of offers due to their good work ethic, but they managed to get me a great deal.
Once I signed with the club, CricX was in constant contact making sure everything was running smoothly. Upon return again, CricX gave me a variety of great offers and continued to have bigger and better offers.
The CricX team is very professional and I would recommend them to anyone interested in playing cricket in the UK!
CricX afforded me some of the best times of my life
CricX afforded me the opportunity to spend 3 UK summers abroad as well as an Australian summer.
These times were some of the best of my life. I have made lifelong friends and made some fantastic memories.
This was all made possible through CricX’s fantastic network and professional service.
CricX have always, and will forever be, my only agent
I personally know Steven Hirst and was probably one of the first Pakistani players to sign with CricX.
Time has gone quickly and it’s been 14-years now and since then, CricX has grown significantly. They have always, and will forever be, my only agent and the good thing about them is they make sure any player gets what they want.
I wish them all the luck in future and I will surely advise others to sign-up as they won’t let you down.
Thrilled by CricX’s professional service
I’ve been thrilled by the service and professionalism of CricX.
My placement was swift and personalized, securing a great deal to allow me to take my game to the next level and experience life down under.
I highly recommend their services to anyone looking to challenge themselves overseas.
The perfect fit within a few days!
I contacted CricX after finishing University and wanted to find a good standard of cricket in Australia.
Within a few days, I was in contact with a club and it ended up being a perfect fit for me.
I would highly recommend the services of CricX.
As good as it gets!
CricX has always offered outstanding support in finding that club in the UK that meets our needs.
Their communication, connections and dedication to getting the best opportunity for all is as good as it gets. Highly recommended!
Attention to Detail!
I’ve used CricX for several UK summers.
The best thing about their service is their attention to detail on the finer details from choosing the best club to fit needs to assisting with visa hurdles.
When I choose to go over to the UK again, I’ll be sure to use CricX!
CricX have my interests at heart!
The CricX team helped me, hassle-free, not only getting over to the UK, but also to the teams I’ve wanted to play for. I’m still thankful to this day.
The have my interests at heart and made it work effortlessly. Thank you, a great service!
Always professional & friendly to deal with!
The team at CricX have been great at connecting me with people I otherwise wouldn’t have known (including my Lancashire CCC contract).
The have always been professional and friendly to deal with. I cannot recommend them enough!
Simply the most reliable agent in business!
Simply the most reliable cricket agent in business with a highly professional setup.
CricX enabled me to travel the world whilst doing what I love the most!
A deal sorted within a few days
Although I contacted CricX at the last minute, the CricX team was able to get a deal sorted for me within a few days.
It was easy to get into contact with them, and the communication was good throughout the process. The asked me what I was looking for and came back with a few options very quickly. It was pretty simple really.
From the initial contact to having a contract sorted all happened with quick speed!
I’ve encountered once-in-a-lifetime moments!
Joining CricX has provided me with the chance to advance my cricketing career.
Their profound understanding of clubs ensured my placement in an exceptional area and team, where I’ve encountered once-in-a-lifetime moments.
The team at CricX is supportive, ensuring a seamless experience for your journey to playing overseas and enabling you to fully embrace the challenges.
I highly recommend CricX to any aspiring cricketer looking to further their cricketing career.
Super easy to find the perfect club!
The service you guys offer is top-notch!
You made it super easy to find the perfect club for me. Couldn’t be happier!
It was an easy process!
The CricX team helped me a lot in finding a club in Australia for the winter followed by one in the UK for our summer.
Within a few days of my first message, they had put me in contact with multiple clubs. From there it was an easy process to find the one that worked best for me!
From start to finish, everything ran incredibly smoothly!
I reached out to CricX in June with the desire to play in New Zealand.
Immediately, I was impressed by the fast response times and support they gave me in finding a club.
After an online meeting, I signed for Papamoa Cricket Club and have not looked back. I’m living in a stunning part of the world, going to the beach daily, developing me coaching and traveling all over the place. The cricket is a high standard and as a result, I’m developing hugely as a player.
From start to finish, everything as ran incredibly smoothly!
I’m really luck to be with CricX!
I’m working with CricX for the past two years. They’re the best worldwide agency helping cricketers.
I’m really lucky to be with CricX, they’ve helped me find the perfect club in London.
Thank you so much for having me!
Just go for CricX!
Over the years I’ve received so much help from CricX.
They have placed me with several clubs and supported me through the entire process.
Just go for CricX. Anything you want, they’ll give everything for you!
Just go for it, CricX will find the best club for you!
I’ll recommend CricX to everyone who wants to play outside their country.
They have helped place me with three clubs now. They choose the right club for you. They give you so many more options.
Just go for it, CricX will find the best club for you!
It’s a good agency. New players should join CricX!
I have been using CricX for the last three years. It’s a good experience for me.
It’s a good agency. Any new players should join CricX!
To anyone who’s looking for an agent, CricX is the way to go!
CricX has been great from the up, finding me those connections, and the right spots to go.
Three years and counting – it’s worked out well. I’ve loved my time over here [UK].
To anyone who’s looking for an agent, CricX is the way to go!
CricX is a great company
I’ve been with my club for two seasons now, all thanks to CricX for getting me this awesome gig.
CricX is a great company. Very easy to communicate with the team. They get you where you want to be, and what you want.
I strongly recommend to any cricketers out there who are aspiring to get to the next level.
If you need an agent, CricX is the best!
I’ve been here [UK] for the past 5 years. It’s really good to play in this country.
I’ve worked with CricX for more than 5 years now. They’re helping me and looking after me. I would say thank you very much for finding clubs.
If anyone is looking for an agent, the best one is CricX!
They get it done quick!
CricX has been good. I think the communication has been really great.
Sweet and direct. Always clarify what you need to do, and get done. It really helps.
The service has been great. They get it done quick!
Their social media is very good to help promote cricketers.
I would really like to thank CricX for giving me this great opportunity to play for Highfield this season.
CricX has been great, I have enjoyed working with the company. Their social media is very good which helps promote us cricketers.
I am really happy to be part of CricX. It’s the best agency.
I’d recommend any cricketers to use CricX
I’ve been playing for Kirkburton for the past five years, and during that time CricX has helped me not only secure this deal, but help ever since.
They’ve been very helpful to me. Whether it’s sorting things with the club, or anything else. I’ve been enjoying my time in the UK and look forward to working with CricX in future.
CricX has been the leading agent for a number of years. They have very good contacts in England and other countries as well. I’d recommend any cricketers to use them to play overseas.
Absolutely CricX is the best agency!
The CricX service has been good. I’ve been with them for several years, and they’ve afforded me a lot of choice, and opportunities in England.
Absolutely CricX is the best agency. Their promotion and marketing is very good. It is good to navigate with your agent and be able to get the club that best suits you.
Their communication and everything is always spot on. If you message at any time during the day, they’re always brilliant at responding.
Here’s to a long and successful future together!
It’s been an amazing experience with CricX!
CricX is how I’ve got to play in the UK.
I’ve been with them for 7-8 years now. It’s been amazing. I love the way they organise club games every year which makes all the pros get together. Meet friends, and make new ones.
It’s been a great adventure for me through CricX. If you want to play overseas, join CricX. You’ll love it and have an amazing journey.
I have been looked after by CricX
CricX found a really nice club here in England.
Every day whilst here I have been looked after by the club and CricX.
I recommend anyone to contact CricX to find a good club.
Can’t speak highly enough of them!
CricX has been great to deal with. Always real quick on the phone. Can’t speak highly enough of them.
Yeah definitely recommend CricX!
CricX has done all my deals!
I played in the UK for 6-7 years and CricX has done all my deals. They have helped me and my family a lot.
Contact CricX. They’ll get you a good club, a good contract. Not just in the UK, but Australia, New Zealand etc. Also contacts with Franchise cricket too.
If you’re looking for an agent, I highly recommend CricX.
