Sunday, August 23, 2009

Unraveling The Mysteries Of The Game Of Cricket

By Jim Samposzi

Cricket, while not quite yet a global game, has seen a dramatic rise in popularity around the world in recent times. This bat-and-ball team sport may be loosely compared to baseball as it involves pitchers, batsmen and runs, though many of the rules and smaller details differ significantly.

The game has its beginnings in sixteenth-century England and has become massively popular in places 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 states.

The last couple of decades has seen something of a rebirth of the game. On top of the old Test matches, which can last for days, there are now 1 day and 20 overs competitions that are shorter and a much more fan-friendly experience.

Such developments have coincided with, or maybe are the reason for, the emergence of a number of 'second-tier' cricket-playing nations all over the globe. Although they are still quite a way behind the 'big boys' of international cricket, there is evidence that the gulf in class is narrowing.

The rules of cricket are a little complicated, but here is a basic rundown of the game. Cricket teams consist of eleven players on each side and the game is played on a large oval field. One team bats, attempting to accumulate as many runs as possible. The batsman tries to protect the wicket from the bowler while accumulating runs. When 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 swap roles, and the side that scores the most runs triumphs.

As mentioned, traditional 'Test' games such as those played in the famous Ashes series between England and Australia, can go on for a number of days. The newer 1 day and twenty overs games keep matches to one day of action.

The gear needed for cricket is quite simple and casual games between family and friends can be easily organized. Most essential are cricket bats and balls. Bats are blade-shaped and can be up to thirty-eight 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, namely a helmet, gloves and pads. Serious injuries have occurred in cricket.

The governing body of cricket is the Dubai-based International Cricket Council (ICC). It has 104 member nations, including ten full members that compete in international Test matches. The body also governs the rules of the game and is responsible for appointing umpires and officials.

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