Cricket is a cultural cornerstone in both Australia & New Zealand.
Famously celebrated within many backyards, right up to endless domestic and international level play.
Whether you're inspired by the Ashes series or the excitement of the fast-paced Big Bash League, understanding the basics of cricket can enhance your appreciation of the game.
The Basics
What Is Cricket?
Cricket is a bat-and-ball game.
Played between two teams with 11 players each.
It’s played on an oval-shaped field with a rectangular 22-yard-long pitch at the centre.
One team will bat, attempting to score as many runs as possible.
The other team will bowl/field, trying to get the batting team all out, with the least amount of runs as possible.
After a certain number of overs, or if 10 of the 11 batsman are given out, the teams switch roles.
Whichever team scores the most runs, wins.
There are many ways of getting the batsman out, the most common ways being;
Bowled – The bowler hits the wickets when he bowls the ball.
Caught – A fielder catches the ball (on the full) after being hit by the batsman.
LBW (Leg Before Wicket) – Batter stops the ball hitting the wickets using their legs.
Run Out – The batter doesn’t get back to their crease and the ball hits the wickets.
Stumped – The batter steps out of his crease and the wicketkeeper (holding the ball) hits the wickets.
Cricket Origins.
Cricket originated in England during the 16th century and has since become one of Australia & New Zealand’s primary summer sports.
Different Formats of Cricket.
Test Matches:
The traditional format - played over five days with each team having two innings, the total amount of overs is unlimited.
One-Day Internationals (ODIs): Each team faces a set number of 50 overs.
Twenty20 (T20): A shorter format with each team playing 20 overs.
The Hundred: A brand new format with each team facing 100 balls.
Essential Cricket Terminology
Understanding cricket involves familiarizing yourself with its unique terminology, there are many differing terms, but here are some common ones;
Over: A set of six legal deliveries bowled by a single bowler.
Wicket: Refers to both the set of stumps and bails and the dismissal of a batter.
Run: The basic unit of scoring, achieved by batters running between the wickets or hitting boundaries.
Duck: When a batter is dismissed without scoring any runs.
Fielders also have a specific position depending on where they are standing on the field, for example when you hear commentators saying words such as Long On, Slip, Gully, Silly Point, Mid-On or Mid-Off, they are referring to a specific fielder.
Getting Involved
Playing Cricket
Cricket is widely played across Australia and New Zealand, from local clubs to national leagues.
Joining a local cricket club is a great way to learn the game, meet new people, and stay active.
Watching Cricket
Cricket matches are broadcasted on various platforms, and attending live games at iconic venues like the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or University Oval in Dunedin offers an unforgettable experience.
Major Cricket Tournaments
The Ashes: A historic Test series between Australia and England.
Big Bash League (BBL): Australia's premier T20 competition featuring city-based franchises.
Super Smash: New Zealand's domestic T20 competition.
ICC Cricket World Cup: The international championship of One Day International (ODI) cricket.
Tips for Beginners
Start with Basics: Familiarize yourself with the basic rules and objectives of the game.
Watch Matches: Viewing live or recorded matches can provide practical insights into gameplay and strategies.
Practice Regularly: Engage in regular practice sessions to improve your skills and understanding of the game.
Join a Club: Becoming part of a local cricket club can offer structured learning and competitive opportunities.
Cricket is a game of strategy, skill, and sportsmanship. Whether you're playing in your backyard or aspiring to represent your country, the journey into cricket is both exciting and rewarding. Embrace the game, and you'll soon understand why it's so cherished.