The research, conducted by sports drink Powerade, found that while only 3 per cent of the 1,300 children surveyed cited cricket as the sport they play most at school, 23 per cent are playing the game outside of school hours.

A further 13 per cent are having coaching outside school and 12 per cent are members of cricket clubs.

Clearly the interest is there, but it would appear opportunities during school hours are limited.

"The English Cricket Board is doing all it can to support cricket at a grass roots level but there is a woeful lack of investment in schools cricket," said former England spinner Phil Tufnell.

"As chairman of an inner city programme, LCCA (London Cricket Community Association), I've seen the positive effect that cricket has on youngsters.

"The Powerade research really shows that a lot more needs to be done if we want a side capable of beating the Aussies."