The game of cricket, though not quite yet a worldwide game, has seen a dramatic rise in popularity around the world in recent times. This bat-and-ball team game can be loosely compared to baseball in that it involves pitchers, batsmen and runs, though a lot of the rules and finer details vary significantly.
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. In fact, it is seen as the national sport in many South Asian states.
The last couple of decades has seen something of a rebirth of the sport. As well as the traditional Test matches, which could last for days, there are now one day and twenty overs games which don't last so long and a significantly more spectator-friendly experience.
These developments have coincided with, or maybe are the cause of, the emergence of a few 'second-tier' cricket-playing countries across Europe, Africa and the Americas. Though these countries are still quite a way behind the 'big boys' of world cricket, it appears that the gap is closing.
The laws of cricket are quite complex, but here is a short rundown of how it works. Cricket teams have eleven players on each side and the game is played on a large oval pitch. One team bats, trying to accumulate as many runs as they can. The batsman tries to guard the wicket from the bowler while accumulating runs. If the bowler hits 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 'out' then the teams change roles, and the team that racks up the most runs wins.
As mentioned, traditional 'Test' matches , for example those played in the prestigious Ashes series between England and Australia, can go on for a number of days. The more recent One day and 20 overs games limit matches to one day of play.
The gear required for cricket is quite basic and impromptu matches involving family and friends can be put together quite easily. The most important items are cricket bats and balls. Bats are blade-shaped and can be up to thirty-eight inches in length. Balls are made out of hard leather.
Because the balls are heavy and the fact that they can be delivered at up to 90mph, it is essential for batsmen to wear safety gear, namely a helmet, gloves and pads. Serious injuries do occur in cricket.
The international body of cricket is the Dubai-based International Cricket Council (ICC). It has a hundred and four member nations, including 10 full members that compete in international Test matches. The ICC also looks after the rules of the sport and is responsible for appointing 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. In fact, it is seen as the national sport in many South Asian states.
The last couple of decades has seen something of a rebirth of the sport. As well as the traditional Test matches, which could last for days, there are now one day and twenty overs games which don't last so long and a significantly more spectator-friendly experience.
These developments have coincided with, or maybe are the cause of, the emergence of a few 'second-tier' cricket-playing countries across Europe, Africa and the Americas. Though these countries are still quite a way behind the 'big boys' of world cricket, it appears that the gap is closing.
The laws of cricket are quite complex, but here is a short rundown of how it works. Cricket teams have eleven players on each side and the game is played on a large oval pitch. One team bats, trying to accumulate as many runs as they can. The batsman tries to guard the wicket from the bowler while accumulating runs. If the bowler hits 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 'out' then the teams change roles, and the team that racks up the most runs wins.
As mentioned, traditional 'Test' matches , for example those played in the prestigious Ashes series between England and Australia, can go on for a number of days. The more recent One day and 20 overs games limit matches to one day of play.
The gear required for cricket is quite basic and impromptu matches involving family and friends can be put together quite easily. The most important items are cricket bats and balls. Bats are blade-shaped and can be up to thirty-eight inches in length. Balls are made out of hard leather.
Because the balls are heavy and the fact that they can be delivered at up to 90mph, it is essential for batsmen to wear safety gear, namely a helmet, gloves and pads. Serious injuries do occur in cricket.
The international body of cricket is the Dubai-based International Cricket Council (ICC). It has a hundred and four member nations, including 10 full members that compete in international Test matches. The ICC also looks after the rules of the sport and is responsible for appointing 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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