Which country national game is cricket
Cricket is a major sport that’s celebrated across the globe but is highly popular in certain countries. Considered more than just a game, it is associated with national pride and cultural tradition in many regions. Different narratives explain how cricket has survived through various eras to become what we know of today: an international sport loved by billions.
The Birth of Cricket
The origin of cricket traces back to Medieval England where it began as children’s game. During the 17th century, adults started playing the sport which served as recreational activity after church services on Sundays. It crossed borders and reached other parts of British Empire due primarily to colonial efforts during the 18th – 19th centuries.
As time passed, every colonized country adopted the sport and eventually adapted it into their own culture. While Great Britain doesn’t consider cricket its national sport – football takes that honor, many of its erstwhile colonies do.
Cricket in South Asia
South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh celebrate cricket seemingly more than any other nation. These nations attribute this largely to British colonial influences although each have contributed to cultivating distinctive styles and norms unique to their area.
Pakistan’s Passion for Cricket
Pakistan cherishes cricket ardently with several historic victories amplifying the country’s commitment to the sport. The most prominent victory came when Pakistan won first World Cup in 1992 against England. Currently, Pakistan Super League, launched by Pakistan Cricket Board in 2015, continues to enthrall local fans while attracting interest from international viewers.
Bangladesh And Cricket
In Bangladesh too, passion for cricket rivals that of soccer. Since gaining Independence from Pakistan in 1971, Bangladesh’s love for cricket has cemented over decades making cricket their national game.
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The Obsession With Cricket In India
Cricket’s popularity in India is unparalleled. After winning the 1983 World Cup, cricket overshadowed hockey –India’s official national game–and became most followed sport in country. Historical performances by cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev, and Virat Kohli also fuelled interest among Indian audiences.
Cricket In Australia And New Zealand
Despite Rugby being the domineering sport in both these nations, cricket is a favorite during summer periods.
Cricket Love in Australia
In Australia–where Australian Rules Football and Rugby League rule sports pages—cricket fervor rises especially around Boxing Day Test Match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Furthermore, English-Australian rivalry has created Ashes series which generates great excitement every two years.
New Zealand’s Affair With Cricket
Similar to Australia, New Zealand enjoys cricket particularly when playing against their rivals. Winning ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Championship would present the ultimate victory for Kiwi fans who have been longing for this title since ’75.
West Indies Dominance In Cricket
The West Indies islands carry deep-rooted traditions of cricket dating back to colonial times. Over time achievements of legendary players such as Vivian Richards and Brian Lara elevated Caribbean pride in cricket with their team being considered one of world’s most dominant teams during 1970s and 80s.
To conclude, while not all countries designate cricket as an official national game, its cultural, historical and recreational significance is still well acknowledged globally where it represents competition, communal spirit and sheer skill intertwined into a thrilling spectacle.
