Mike Wood · 31 October, 2025

Cricket Safety in New Zealand

At Players Sports, we’ve seen first-hand how cricket has evolved - not just in skill and speed, but in how seriously safety is taken. Whether your child’s just starting hardball cricket or playing representative level, a good helmet is now as essential as a bat and pads.

The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) Helmet Policy 2024-25 makes this clear: all players under 19 must wear a British Standard (BS 7928:2013) compliant helmet when batting, keeping up to the stumps, or fielding close in. For adults, it’s strongly recommended too.

This isn’t just about ticking a rulebook box - it’s about reducing serious head and neck injuries that can happen in an instant.

Understanding Modern Cricket Helmets

Today’s cricket helmets are light, breathable, and built for impact protection. When choosing one, look for the BS 7928:2013 certification label. This is the current “best of breed” global safety standard recognised by NZC, replacing the old AS/NZS 4499 series.

At Players Sports, we stock the best range in New Zealand - from Masuri, Shrey, Kookaburra, and Gray-Nicolls - all brands trusted at professional and grassroots level.

• Titanium grills offer the highest level of impact resistance.

• Stainless steel grills provide excellent all-round protection at a more affordable price.

You can browse our full cricket helmet range online here with fast NZ-wide delivery or visit our Auckland stores for expert fitting advice.

The Role of the Neck Guard

Why the Neck Needs Protection Too

While most parents think of a helmet as protection for the head, the back of the neck remains one of the most vulnerable areas in cricket.

A cricket ball rising unexpectedly can strike just below the helmet - the same spot that tragically led to the death of Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes in 2014.

That’s why the NZC Helmet Policy now requires neck protectors for fast or medium-paced bowling at representative level and strongly recommends them for all players. Starting from the 2025/26 season, they’ll even become mandatory in Hawke Cup Challenge matches.

Masuri StemGuard - Setting the Standard

The Masuri StemGuard remains the safest neck protector on the market for both junior and senior players. Designed by the world’s leading cricket helmet manufacturer, it’s the first neck guard certified under the same British Safety Standard (BS 7928:2013+A1:2019) as the helmets themselves.

Fitted to the back of Masuri helmets, the StemGuard uses advanced impact-absorbing materials to deflect energy from a fast-moving cricket ball. It attaches securely with minimal added weight - giving young players confidence without restricting movement.

If your child’s helmet doesn’t currently have a neck protector, it’s an easy and important upgrade. You can find the Masuri StemGuard and other helmet accessories - including replacement sweatbands and helmet nuts - in our cricket helmet section online here.

Tips for Parents Choosing a Helmet

Here’s what we recommend when buying a cricket helmet for your child:

1. Check the Safety Standard - Always look for the BS 7928:2013 sticker inside.

2. Fit is Everything - A helmet should fit snugly without wobbling. Adjustable inner padding can help with growing heads.

3. Include the Neck Guard - Especially if your child faces faster bowling, the StemGuard is a must.

4. Inspect After Every Season - Replace any helmet that’s had a hard impact or shows visible damage.

5. Match the Ball Type - For girls and younger players, NZC recommends helmets tested against both men’s and junior-sized balls.

Our staff at Players Sports Greenlane and Onehunga are trained to help you find the right size, fit, and safety level for every age and level of play.

Cricket Safety Starts with the Right Gear

Every season, we meet parents who are new to cricket and want reassurance they’re buying the right protection. The good news is, modern helmets and neck guards are smarter, lighter, and safer than ever.

At Players Sports, we’re proud to stock NZC-compliant cricket helmets and the Masuri StemGuard, ensuring your young cricketer can step onto the pitch with confidence.

Shop online with fast NZ-wide shipping, or visit our Auckland stores for personal fitting and expert advice.

Your child’s safety deserves the best protection in the game.