Rules of stoolball
What is stoolball?
Stoolball is a team sport which has been played for over 500 years. Similar to cricket, two teams compete to score the most runs. It is played by ladies-only teams, mixed teams and schools.
Starter stoolball
The 10 essential rules you need to play stoolball, perfect for trying out the sport, leading a school PE lesson, or a quick match in the park. Print them out and stick them to the back of your wicket.
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 2015–2017. You should read about the spirit of stoolball too.
Spirit of stoolball
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.
Indoor stoolball
Stoolball is played all year round, moving indoors for the winter. With its softer ball, indoor stoolball is particularly good for children.
How to score a stoolball match
A step-by-step guide to what to put where in a stoolball scorebook, even when something unusual happens. Print it out and have it beside you when you score.
Equipment
Get everything you need to play stoolball, from bats to boundary markers. Find out how to care for your equipment, and where you can donate old bats and wickets.
Coaching
Whether you’re a complete beginner, keen to improve, or you want to teach others to play stoolball, we can help.
Reviewing the rules
The rules of stoolball are reviewed every three years. If you have a query or suggestion, submit it to us and we’ll consider it. We track your queries on a separate website, so you’ll need to register there to take part.
