CHARLOTTE ­–The U.S. Youth Cricket Association plans launch programs in Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools during the 2011-12 school year.

Along with its associate member, the Charlotte International Cricket Club, the U.S. Youth Cricket Association will partner with the school district to supply its 136 elementary and middle schools with free cricket sets, instruction and ongoing support. The district plans to incorporate cricket into its physical education curriculum, while providing students with other opportunities, such as during recess or in after-school programs,  to play the game. The association also plans to explore possibilities for sponsored cricket activities between the district’s schools.

The youth cricket group “is excited to be working with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools on this groundbreaking initiative,” association President Jamie Harrison said in a news release. “… We look forward to this comprehensive introduction of our great game in western North Carolina.”

The association has additional plans to approach local community leaders to establish cricket programs in neighborhoods, especially in areas that need youth athletics. The association’s leaders said they hope to use under-utilized playing fields to provide low-cost, introductory cricket leagues to attract children who might have limited team-sports alternatives.