Gravity MAX in Stratford opens cricket batting cages with Jofra Archer simulation
The Howzat cages at the Stratford entertainment venue offer five game modes, including a World Cup setting with 76mph deliveries.
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A new cricket experience has opened at Gravity MAX in Stratford, offering residents and visitors the chance to face simulated deliveries from international players. The Howzat batting cages, situated outside Westfield shopping centre, launched in recent weeks and include five distinct game modes.
The venue’s staff guide participants through the setup, which begins with selecting a game mode. T20 replicates the format’s structure, allowing players to choose the number of overs, up to a full 20-over match. Difficulty settings range from beginner to world class, with noticeable differences between levels.
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Game modes and accessibility
Survivor mode introduces a competitive element, where players lose a life if they fail to score the most runs in an over. Lights On tests accuracy by requiring batters to hit specific targets within a set number of balls. Another mode shifts focus to fielding, with participants catching and throwing balls at targets.
World Cup mode offers the most intense challenge. Players face two overs against computer-generated versions of cricket legends, including Jimmy Anderson, Dale Steyn, and Shane Warne. An East London Advertiser reporter experienced a 76mph delivery from Jofra Archer in this mode, describing it as difficult to track.
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The venue accommodates all skill levels by providing bats of varying sizes and weights. Lower difficulty settings allow more time to react to deliveries, while higher levels demand quicker reflexes. Sessions last up to an hour, with enough variety to engage groups or families.
Food, drink, and other attractions
Gravity MAX also offers food and drink options, alongside other activities such as arcade games, crazy golf, and go-karting. The venue positions itself as a summer holiday or group outing destination, drawing comparisons to the now-closed Sixes Cricket in similar entertainment style.
An East London Advertiser reporter, who tested the cages with a friend, described the experience as enjoyable for all abilities. They noted that even non-cricketers could participate, though catching skills were put to the test in the fielding mode.
Questions this report answers
+What game modes are available at the Howzat cricket cages?
The Howzat cages at Gravity MAX offer five modes: T20, Survivor, Lights On, fielding, and World Cup. Each mode varies in difficulty and format, catering to different skill levels and preferences. T20 replicates the standard match format, while World Cup includes simulated deliveries from cricket legends.
+How fast was the fastest ball bowled in the World Cup mode?
The fastest recorded delivery in World Cup mode was 76mph, bowled by a simulated Jofra Archer. An East London Advertiser reporter experienced this during a test session, describing the ball as difficult to track due to its speed.
+Is the cricket experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Howzat cages are designed for all ages and abilities. The venue provides adjustable bats and difficulty settings, ranging from beginner to world class. Lower difficulty levels allow more time to react to deliveries, making it accessible for newcomers.
+What other activities are available at Gravity MAX?
Gravity MAX offers arcade games, crazy golf, and go-karting alongside the Howzat cricket cages. The venue also provides food and drink options, making it a destination for group outings or family activities during the summer holidays.
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