Do you remember how often you smashed your neighbors’ glass windows and how? I’m sure that in most cases, cricket will be the culprit.
With over 2.5 billion followers, cricket is the second most popular sport globally. However, in South Asia, it is the most popular sport.
Brought into India by the British, the game stayed even after the colonizers went away. Once the Indians owned the game, there was nothing that could stop them from falling in love with cricket.
Happiness, excitement, anticipation, sadness, and frustration are a few emotions fans go through while watching a cricket match. The players have to keep their sanity intact by not giving in to their emotions.
Cricket has remained and plans to remain India’s favorite sport. The passion for cricket in India has been proved many times. The country has become the ICC World cup champion twice.
But have you ever even considered what makes it such an admired sport?
Here is the list of reasons South Asians love this bat and ball game.
1. Affordability
The South Asian countries are either underdeveloped or developing nations. Cricket is cheaper to afford, so it is accessible to everyone.
From state-owned level grounds to small slums, everyone manages to arrange a bat and a ball. As leather-made cricket balls are more expensive, many players use taped tennis balls.
Instead of a bat, any rough stick is used, and stacked crates or chairs become the wicket.
2. Feasibility
We can play cricket anywhere. The unavailability of proper cricket grounds does not stop the players from playing. They take over the nearest street, open floor, or park to enjoy the sport.
As the game is being played in every neighborhood, more children become interested in participating in the game.
3. Sponsorship
Cricket is a sponsored sport, especially in India. All brands promote the bat and ball game, from mobile phone brands to shampoos. This makes cricket a part of every household.
Famous cricketers become part of the advertisements thus appearing on televisions and billboards. This further adds to the popularity of the players.
4. Professionalism
Have you ever wondered about pursuing cricket as a profession?
If not, then let me tell you that playing cricket is a proper profession, unlike many other sports.
As there is a future in the game, players seek to train from different cricket academies. There are proper channels and guidance to be a cricketer. Hence, people opt for this profession.
5. Heroism
Cricket has given many heroes to the world. Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli are the heroes the whole of India looks up to. These people give hope to the youngsters to admire the sport even more.
Documentaries and films are made about the lives of these heroes. People appreciate the profession even more.
6. Promotion
As you all know, without promotion and motivation, even the strongest would eventually wither. But, in the case of cricket, the government seems quite enthusiastic about supporting this overwhelming sport!
In fact, cricket boards work tirelessly to ensure that deserving players get to play. International cricket cups put a country’s honor at stake. More cricket is played when the state encourages, and more leagues pop up. IPL has played a significant role in promoting young people even more.
Furthermore, sponsors and companies promote cricket as well. Parimatch, for example, is a mobile app dedicated to cricket that has various promotional offers for users. Thus on every level, the game is encouraged. You can bet on your favorite team in just a few clicks.
7. Economy
Any country needs fun, entertainment, and an uplifting economy. Let me remind you that cricket is one of a kind!
Cricket also helps the economy of the country. For example, the countries that host the ICC world cup have a massive inflow of people to watch the game. This also increases tourism.
Other than that, the national leagues also contribute to the GDPs of nations. As per the BCCI, in 2015, IPL supplied ₹1,150 crores (US$150 million) to India’s GDP. IPL 2022 final will bring in even more.
8. Strategy
Cricket involves a lot of strategies and skills. So even though physical strength is essential, a present mind and game planning are what win the game.
9. Pleasure
Nevertheless, it all depends on having some fun. Who doesn’t love a good four or six? The moment when the umpire raises his finger against the opposition is gratifying.
As the two teams face each other, the run-making and run chasing becomes exciting for both players and spectators. Every ball in cricket can change the game, which keeps everyone involved on their toes.
The excitement that cricket brings makes people forget their worries and problems.
Conclusion
To say that Indians love cricket is an understatement. It is safer to say that the Indians ‘live’ cricket.
Cricket produces heroes and GDP. It also receives sponsorships and promotional campaigns. Moreover, it can be played anywhere with minimal equipment.
Popular with every age group, cricket makes Desi people invest their emotions into it. Many channels and apps are devoted to cricket, such as Sony 6, Start Sports, and Parimatch. These help people to stay connected with their favorite sport.
