Square One: A New Prototype for Inclusive English Cricket Development in Brighton
Square One Falmer, located in a repurposed tennis hall near Brighton, is now recognized as the world's second-largest cricket hall and serves as a prototype center focused on inclusivity in cricket.
The initiative is driven by co-founder and coach Rob Ferley, Brighton University sports science lecturer Dr James Wallis, and investor and benefactor Rod Aldridge, who together lead a combined social and commercial project.
Operating alongside Brighton Aldridge Community Academy (BACA), the centre aims to develop partnerships with state schools through a gate-down collaborative model.
The ambition is to establish approximately 150 Square One centres nationwide, including hybrid versions connected to existing facilities and state schools.
Key design features include color-coded nets and a nonverbal common language system designed to reduce jargon, making cricket more accessible for newcomers.
Technological innovations include microchipped balls and bowler-end displays that track speed and trajectory, providing data-driven practice and game-like feedback.
The project critiques current ECB initiatives as insufficient and seeks to remove barriers related to language, culture, and access, aiming to broaden opportunities beyond traditional geographic hubs.
The coaching philosophy emphasizes broader personal development with non-linear pathways, positioning sport as a tool for growth beyond just cricket skills.
While there is interest from the ECB for possible collaborations, Square One maintains an entrepreneurial model, aiming to modernize coaching and talent development distinct from traditional methods like Bazball.
