Backyard Cricket Nets

Line Marking Australia builds backyard cricket nets across Australia: a synthetic cricket pitch on a stable base, a steel frame and netting that keeps the ball inside your yard. Every backyard net is sized to the space you have and the players using it, so we quote each one for your site after a quick look.

A backyard net turns a few throwdowns into proper practice. Kids can bat every afternoon, bowlers can work on their run-up, and the ball stops landing in the neighbour's pool.

These are the questions parents and keen cricketers ask us before they build one.

How much do backyard cricket nets cost?

Backyard cricket nets in Australia are quoted per site, because the cost depends on the length of the pitch, the base underneath, the frame and how much netting you need. A batting-only net is the most affordable option, and a full-length net with roof netting costs more. Line Marking Australia itemises every part.

What changes the price:

• Pitch length and width
• Base: new concrete slab, existing concrete or compacted crushed rock
• Synthetic pitch grade and underlay
• Frame type and height, side netting and roof netting
• Earthworks, slope and access for machinery

How long should a backyard cricket net be?

A backyard cricket net should be long enough for the bowlers using it. A batting-focused net can be shorter, with bowlers using a shortened run-up or a bowling machine, while a full net allows a proper pitch length plus run-up. Junior players need less length, so many families build to suit the kids now.

Common net we build	Who it suits	Space needed
Batting bay	Throwdowns, bowling machine, younger kids	Short and narrow; fits most yards
Junior-length pitch	Junior cricketers with a short run-up	A long side yard or back yard
Full-length pitch	Senior bowlers and batters	A long, level strip with room for a run-up

We'll measure your yard and show you which length fits before you commit.

Synthetic or concrete pitch for a backyard net?

A synthetic cricket pitch laid over a concrete or well-compacted base is the best choice for most backyard nets. It gives a consistent bounce, is kind on the ball and the knees, and dries quickly after rain. Bare concrete is cheaper but harsh on balls and players, and natural turf needs constant care.

Pitch	Good points	Downsides
Synthetic on concrete	Consistent bounce, long-lasting, low upkeep	Higher upfront cost than rock base
Synthetic on crushed rock	Lower cost, drains well	Can settle over time; needs a good base
Bare concrete	Cheapest hard surface	Hard on balls, unforgiving to fall on
Natural turf	Real grass feel	Mowing, rolling and watering; wears quickly

What base does a synthetic cricket pitch need?

A synthetic cricket pitch needs a flat, stable base so the bounce stays true. A reinforced concrete slab built to AS 3600 gives the most consistent result and lasts longest. A compacted crushed-rock base costs less and drains well, but it must be laid and compacted properly or it will dip where bowlers land.

The base also needs a gentle fall so water doesn't pool on the pitch. On clay soils we take extra care with drainage, because wet clay moves and lifts.

What netting and frame does a backyard net need?

A backyard cricket net needs a sturdy frame, side netting the full length of the pitch and back netting behind the batter. Roof netting is strongly recommended in suburban yards because it stops lofted shots and edges from reaching windows, cars and neighbours. Galvanised steel frames last best outdoors in Australian weather.

• Frame: galvanised steel posts set in concrete footings
• Netting: UV-stabilised cricket netting, tensioned so it doesn't sag
• Roof net: covers the batting end, or the whole tunnel
• Entry: a gap or flap at the bowler's end for safe access

Do I need council approval for backyard cricket nets?

Backyard cricket nets may need council approval if the frame is tall, close to a boundary, or involves retaining walls, earthworks or drainage changes. Structures and fences over about 2 m are a common trigger, as are heritage and flood overlays. Line Marking Australia checks your council's rules before confirming the design.

How do we keep a backyard net safe?

A safe backyard cricket net keeps the ball contained, keeps spectators out of the line of fire and gives players a non-slip surface. Roof netting, a clear entry point and enough space behind the batter all help. Helmets and pads still matter, especially for juniors facing hard balls or a bowling machine.

• Netting tight to the frame with no gaps at ground level
• Bowler's entry away from where people walk past
• Smooth, flush edges where the pitch meets the surrounding ground
• Synthetic surface kept clean of leaves, which are slippery when wet

How long does it take to build a backyard cricket net?

A backyard cricket net usually takes about one to two weeks on site, depending on the base. A crushed-rock base can be laid quickly, while a concrete slab needs curing time before the synthetic pitch goes down. Frame footings are poured early, and the netting goes up last once the pitch is in.

How do I look after a synthetic cricket pitch?

A synthetic cricket pitch needs very little care: blow or sweep off leaves, hose off dirt and check the edges and seams now and then. Keep shoes clean of mud and avoid metal spikes. Check netting for wear each season and retension it if it sags, so balls don't escape the net.

How we keep every backyard cricket net compliant

Every backyard cricket net we build follows the same compliance steps as our larger court work. We check council rules for the frame and earthworks, locate underground services before digging footings, work under Work Health and Safety laws, control dust and sediment, and use builders who hold the licence your state requires.

• Council check for structure height, setbacks, earthworks, drainage and overlays
• Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) search before footings and excavation
• Safe Work Method Statements for excavation and mobile plant
• Silica dust controls when cutting concrete
• Sediment and stormwater controls on site
• Concrete base and footings to AS 3600
• Builders with public liability insurance

Our main cricket nets and synthetic pitches page covers club and school nets, and backyard sports courts covers other courts at home.

What do you need from me to quote backyard cricket nets?

To quote backyard cricket nets, we need the space you have, the age and level of the players and whether you want roof netting. Send the details below with photos and rough measurements, and we'll check levels, access and drainage on a short site visit before giving you an itemised quote.

• New net, replacing an old pitch, or adding netting to an existing slab
• Length and width available, and where in the yard
• What's there now: lawn, garden, old concrete
• Slope and drainage after rain
• Access for a small excavator and concrete truck
• Pitch length wanted and players' ages
• Roof netting, side netting, bowling machine use, lighting and power
• Approvals, photos, timing and budget