Rules of stoolball

What is stoolball?

The sport of stoolball, over 500 years old, is the forerunner of cricket. It's played with similar equipment on any grass area with a 80 metre diameter boundary.

Stoolball is a sport that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its rules but also within the spirit of the game. Any action which is seen to abuse this spirit causes injury to the sport itself.

Code of conduct and players' responsibilities

In the the excitement of a match it is sometimes difficult for players, club officials and parents to take an objective and balanced view about any match their team is involved in. Whether you're watching or playing, please keep this code of conduct in mind.

Rules of stoolball

The rules for stoolball are easy to learn: similar to but simpler than the laws of cricket. These are the updated rules for 2009–2012. You should read about the spirit of stoolball too.

Indoor stoolball

Stoolball is played all year round, moving indoors for the winter. With its softer ball, indoor stoolball is particularly good for children.

Mini-stoolball

Mini-stoolball introduces children to stoolball. Children have difficulty using full-size equipment. Mini-stoolball is for children up 15 years old.

Scorers' guide

Have this guide handy when you score a stoolball match, and you'll always know what to do when something unusual happens.

Buy stoolball equipment from Stoolball England

You can buy approved stoolball bats, balls, scorebooks, boundary markers, spray paint for pitch marking and ice packs for your first-aid kit from Stoolball England.

DVD: Let's Play Stoolball

This DVD, with accompanying booklet, allows anyone new to stoolball to see how to play. The film explains the rules and promotes the atmosphere and friendliness of the sport.

DVD: Skills and drills for stoolball

Stoolball England's coaching DVD explains how to bowl spin, how to bat effectively, how to improve your fielding, and suggests practices for your class or team. It's an excellent way to improve your stoolball.