Sattwik Mandal, a student of fifth grade, explores the rich history and evolution of cricket, a sport cherished worldwide. From its origins in the late 1300s to modern innovations such as the Decision Review System (DRS), this article delves into the changing rules, equipment, and governance by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Cricket, a beloved sport around the globe, traces its origins back to the late 1300s. While the exact inception date remains debated, evidence suggests that cricket was played in some form during this period in England.
The first recorded match took place in 1664 in Kent, England. This match marked the beginning of the game as a structured sport, leading to the establishment of the laws of cricket in 1744. These laws laid the foundation for the game’s rules and regulations, ensuring a standardized format for play. By 1760, the world’s first club for the sport was formed, further solidifying cricket’s place in the sporting world.
Today, the International Cricket Council (ICC) governs the game internationally, overseeing the sport’s development and ensuring fair play across the globe. The ICC’s role includes organizing major tournaments, setting international standards, and promoting the game worldwide.
Rules of The Sport
It is played on a pitch with six wickets and four bails. The main objective for the batter is to score runs while protecting the wickets from being hit by the ball. A batter can be declared out if the ball hits the wickets or if the fielding team throws the ball and hits the wickets before the batter reaches the safe zone, marked by the crease.
There are blue lines on the pitch indicating the wide lines. If the ball crosses these lines without being touched by the bat, it is declared a wide ball, resulting in an extra run for the batting team.
One of the modern innovations in cricket is the Decision Review System (DRS). Each team is allowed two reviews per innings, where they can request the on-field umpire to refer a decision to the third umpire. The third umpire uses advanced technology to review the play and ensure accurate decisions.
Equipment
Playing cricket requires specific equipment for safety and performance. The primary items include:
Bat: Made of willow, the bat has a flat face and a sturdy handle, allowing the batsman to strike the ball effectively.
Ball: A hard, leather-covered ball is used, which can be bowled at high speeds.
Wicket-Keeping Gloves: These gloves are worn by the wicket-keeper to safely catch the ball.
Protective Gear: Batsmen wear various guards to protect themselves from injury. This includes thigh guards, arm guards, chest guards, and elbow guards.
Cricket combines skill, strategy, and physical endurance, making it a captivating sport for players and fans alike. Its rich history and evolving nature continue to attract enthusiasts worldwide.
