A budding youngster shows his best Steve Harmison impression

It aims to "reinvigorate" the coaching of the sport in a 10-year programme which will halt a period of decline for cricket in the country's state schools.

Sport England Chairman Lord Carter said: "Thousands more children have the chance to play organised, cricket at school, some for the first time."

The programme will ensure fixtures between school teams and forge links with some of the leading clubs.

Lord Carter went on: "Boosting cricket in schools is a superb way of revitalising interest in the game and of capitalising on the outstanding performances of the England men's and women's teams."

Minister for Sport Richard Caborn said: "The Government is a strong supporter of the Chance to Shine initiative.

"There's no doubt a lifetime love of sport begins in school, and so this is the right investment."