The recent ICC Cricket World Cup just got over. India won the World Cup after 28 years, but not before the hearts of the entire Asian Subcontinent as well as other cricketing nations were firmly in its grip. Although, not born in a cricketing country, there are many reasons to like the game. Here are 7 reasons why I love cricket.
1. It’s a Team Sport
I am a big fan of team sports. While there are many interesting sporting activities that are entirely individualistic, I prefer team sports. It seems even more challenging for an entire team to work towards the same goal, complement each others' strengths and weaknesses and share the woes and throes of defeat and victory.
2. It Does Have Legends
While this may seem contradictory to the first point, it is nonetheless true and not just for cricket, but any team sport. It is incredible to watch some players rise above the rest and create history by breaking records and setting new milestones. The game evolves because of such players.
3. It Has a Variety of Formats
While the 5 day format may be too slow and boring for many people, it is not the only format in which cricket is played. There is an exciting one day format and now an even shorter version called 20/20, which is shorter and even more exciting.
4. It’s a Gentleman’s Game
This is perhaps one of the top reasons why I love cricket. It started out as a gentleman’s game, under the British, and to a large extent, it still is. There is very little place for violence, abuse or hooliganism in the world of cricket and is quickly quelled if it surfaces.
5. It is a Difficult Game
For those who follow and appreciate cricket, it is obvious that the game tends to look a lot easier than it actually is. Whether it is mastering different styles of bowling, different strokes of batting or fielding techniques like catching a ball mid-air from a long distance, it is only the expertise of international player that makes it look easy.
6. It is an Exciting Game
This is another of the top reasons why I love cricket. If you follow the game, you will witness a number of nail-biting finishes between competent competing teams. The strategies used, the concentration employed and the determination of the players as they try to beat the other team are incredible.
7. It’s a Social Engagement
Just like other team sports bring together like-minded people and entire nations together with a single game, so does cricket. Cricket also provides the perfect opportunity to meet friends, share beers, cheer for their team and generally have a good time.
If you follow cricket, you are sure to agree with the 7 reasons why I love cricket. If you don’t, I can only hope that these reasons will induce you to do so and share the fun and excitement that cricket invariably brings within its folds.
Top image source: weheartit.com
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do you love cricket?
- Oh, there are so many reasons! The excitement of the game, the strategy involved, the camaraderie among players and fans, and just the pure adrenaline rush—I can't get enough of it!
- What is it about cricket that makes it special to you?
- It's the unpredictability of the game that keeps me hooked! Anything can happen at any moment, and I love the thrill and suspense.
- How did you start loving cricket?
- I think it all started with watching matches with my family and friends. Seeing everyone so passionate about the game made me fall in love with it too.
- Do you have a favorite cricket memory?
- Absolutely! I remember watching a thrilling last-ball victory with my friends, and the atmosphere was just electric. It's a memory I'll cherish forever.
- Why do you think people enjoy cricket so much?
- Cricket has a way of bringing people together. Whether it's cheering for your team or analyzing plays with friends, it's a shared experience that creates strong bonds.