The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has seen a 5 per cent growth in participation over the past year, while 1.4 million children have been introduced to the sport.

It follows an annual survey of participation in cricket, which explores the number of people playing club cricket and the work of the Cricket Foundation's Chance to shine initiative.

The news that participation has grown comes after it was announced the England and Wales Cricket Trust had invested £52m in grassroots projects during the last financial year.

ECB chief executive David Collier said: "It is very rewarding that during difficult economic times there has been such a substantial increase in participation numbers.

"In our strategic plan we recognise that the current levels of participation, if they are to be sustained, require an increased investment in facilities and coaches."