Cricket, although not quite yet a global sport, has seen a dramatic increase in popularity around the world in recent times. This bat-and-ball team game may be loosely compared to baseball as it involves pitchers, batsmen and runs, though many of the rules and finer details differ a lot.
The game has its beginnings in sixteenth-century England and has grown hugely popular in countries like Australia, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the West Indies. To the extent that it is seen as the national sport in many South Asian nations.
The last few years have seen something of a revolution of the sport. As well as the old Test matches, which could last for days, there are now 1 day and 20 overs competitions that are shorter and a significantly more fan-friendly experience.
These developments have coincided with, or perhaps are the reason for, the emergence of a few 'second-tier' cricket-playing nations across Europe, Africa and the Americas. Although these countries are still quite a way behind the 'big boys' of world cricket, it appears that the gulf in class is narrowing.
The laws of cricket are fairly complex, but here is a short rundown of how it works. Cricket teams have eleven players each and the game is played on a large oval pitch. One team bats, attempting to clock up as many runs as possible. The batsman tries to guard the wicket from the bowler while scoring runs. When the bowler strikes the wicket with the ball, or a fielder catches the ball after it is batted, then the batsman is dismissed. When all the batsmen are dismissed then the teams swap roles, and the team that racks up the most runs wins.
As mentioned, traditional 'Test' games like those played in the prestigious Ashes series between England and Australia, can last for many days. The more recent 1 day and 20 overs matches limit matches to one day of action.
The equipment needed for cricket is pretty basic and impromptu matches involving family and friends can be put together quite easily. Top of the list are cricket bats and balls. The bats are blade-shaped and can be up to 38 inches long. The balls are made from hard leather.
Because of the weight of the balls and the fact that they can be delivered at up to 90mph, it is vital for batsmen to wear protective gear, including a helmet, gloves and pads. Serious injuries are not uncommon in the game.
The international body of cricket is the Dubai-based International Cricket Council (ICC). It has 104 members, including ten full members that play international Test matches. The body also oversees the rules of the game and appoints umpires and officials.
The game has its beginnings in sixteenth-century England and has grown hugely popular in countries like Australia, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the West Indies. To the extent that it is seen as the national sport in many South Asian nations.
The last few years have seen something of a revolution of the sport. As well as the old Test matches, which could last for days, there are now 1 day and 20 overs competitions that are shorter and a significantly more fan-friendly experience.
These developments have coincided with, or perhaps are the reason for, the emergence of a few 'second-tier' cricket-playing nations across Europe, Africa and the Americas. Although these countries are still quite a way behind the 'big boys' of world cricket, it appears that the gulf in class is narrowing.
The laws of cricket are fairly complex, but here is a short rundown of how it works. Cricket teams have eleven players each and the game is played on a large oval pitch. One team bats, attempting to clock up as many runs as possible. The batsman tries to guard the wicket from the bowler while scoring runs. When the bowler strikes the wicket with the ball, or a fielder catches the ball after it is batted, then the batsman is dismissed. When all the batsmen are dismissed then the teams swap roles, and the team that racks up the most runs wins.
As mentioned, traditional 'Test' games like those played in the prestigious Ashes series between England and Australia, can last for many days. The more recent 1 day and 20 overs matches limit matches to one day of action.
The equipment needed for cricket is pretty basic and impromptu matches involving family and friends can be put together quite easily. Top of the list are cricket bats and balls. The bats are blade-shaped and can be up to 38 inches long. The balls are made from hard leather.
Because of the weight of the balls and the fact that they can be delivered at up to 90mph, it is vital for batsmen to wear protective gear, including a helmet, gloves and pads. Serious injuries are not uncommon in the game.
The international body of cricket is the Dubai-based International Cricket Council (ICC). It has 104 members, including ten full members that play international Test matches. The body also oversees the rules of the game and appoints umpires and officials.
About the Author:
Jim is a reporter with over 12 years writing experience. Jim is currently employed as a national correspondent for our b2b site and has become the resident expert on cricket. Be sure to visit our website for more information on Cricket Pads and Cricket Balls.
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