9 less-known facts you may not have known about cricket

Cricket is a sport that’s celebrated all over India. It’s played everywhere, from the biggest stadiums to the smallest gullies in the most remote villages. And whether or not you’re a fan of the sport, every Indian possesses some basic knowledge of the game. Nearly every Indian knows the rules, a few famous players, and the different kinds of matches that we’ve all come to love and enjoy.

Though cricket was born in England, it’s become a worldwide phenomenon. Australia and India are particularly prolific in the major tournaments, though England still hold their own. This was also once an Olympic sport, but more on that below.

Do you know just how long the longest cricket game to ever take place lasted? Or why women's cricket has seen significant growth and development in recent years?

If not, keep on reading to discover more interesting cricket facts! Here are 9 facts that even some cricket fans would be surprised to know.

Its ball, a bit peculiar

The ball used in cricket is rather curious. It weighs about 160 grams and is made of rope wrapped around a cork core, covered with leather. With expert batsmen, the ball can reach speeds of 130 km/h. This construction gives the ball its unique characteristics, affecting its swing and bounce, making the game even more challenging and exciting.

Originating in the United Kingdom

Cricket is a British sport. Historians place its creation in England, and immediately after its inception, it spread throughout the British territory. However, it is a sport that has a strong presence in the Asian continent, as well as in some European countries and a large part of Oceania. Great players, some of them all-rounders like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, are remembered in the history of cricket. The sport's colonial roots have helped it spread to various parts of the world, particularly India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Australia, where it enjoys immense popularity.

A sport with great impact

According to CricketWorld.com, cricket has an importance that exceeds expectations. It is estimated that cricket has more than 2 billion fans worldwide. With this data, it is the second most followed sport on the planet, only behind soccer, which has more than 3 billion. The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most-watched cricket leagues globally, attracting millions of viewers and significantly boosting the sport's popularity.

Cricket, full of controversy

Being so well known, the problems cannot be controlled. It is obvious that a sport of this size is a target for betting. Millions of dollars are moved with this sport and, obviously, illegal bets are the daily bread. Cricket’s immense popularity makes it a prime target for both legal and illegal betting activities, which can sometimes lead to match-fixing scandals. If you're interested in the world of cricket betting and want to find trusted comparison and rating platforms for casino and betting sites such as GameZinger.com  for instance, it's crucial to do your research and choose websites that maintain the integrity and fairness of the game. Illegal betting tends to tarnish the name of cricket, but this is something that the big organizations are trying to eliminate. The International Cricket Council (ICC) and other governing bodies are constantly working to maintain the sport's integrity by introducing stricter regulations and monitoring systems.

Not an Olympic Sport

Despite being the second most followed sport on the planet, it is not part of the discipline of the Olympic Games. It had a fleeting appearance at the 1900 Paris Games but has not been seen since. Tokyo 2020 featured a number of sports, including cricket, that aspired to be Olympians, but it is not currently considered as such. There is ongoing debate about whether cricket should return to the Olympics, with proponents arguing that it would help globalize the sport even further. Actually is one of five new sports set to feature at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

The 11-Day Match

Cricket is famous for having hosted one of the longest-running matches in the history of the sport. It was the match between South Africa and England, which began on a sunny morning on March 3, 1939, and, after no winner, ended in a draw on March 14. This is placed in a historical context of the sport. Years earlier, a fifth match with no time limit had been established in Australia, something that was not implemented on Anglo-Saxon soil until that famous match. A move that could not have been foreseen.

The Gentleman's Game

Cricket is often referred to as the "gentleman's game." This term highlights the sport's emphasis on sportsmanship and fair play. Traditional formats like Test cricket, which can last up to five days, are played with a spirit of respect and integrity. Players are expected to uphold the values of the game, even in fiercely competitive environments. This ethos sets cricket apart from many other sports and contributes to its unique charm.

Technological Advancements

Modern cricket has embraced technology in various ways to enhance the game. Technologies such as Hawk-Eye, Snickometer, and Decision Review System (DRS) are now integral parts of the sport. These advancements help in making accurate decisions, thus reducing human error and ensuring fair play. Additionally, high-definition broadcasts and innovative camera angles have transformed how fans experience the game, bringing them closer to the action than ever before.

Women's Cricket on the Rise

Women's cricket has seen significant growth and development in recent years. International tournaments, such as the ICC Women's World Cup and Women's T20 World Cup, have gained substantial viewership and sponsorship. Countries like Australia, England, and India have strong women's teams that inspire millions of young girls to take up the sport. Efforts are ongoing to achieve greater gender parity in cricket, with increased investment in women's leagues and grassroots programs.

Conclusion

Cricket, with its rich history and global appeal, continues to captivate millions. From its unique ball to its storied controversies, cricket is a sport that offers endless intrigue and excitement. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the game, there's always something new to discover about this fascinating sport. So, the next time you come across a cricket match, take a moment to appreciate the complexity and beauty of the game that has stood the test of time.