HISTORY OF CRICKET

The History of Cricket: A Complete Overview Cricket, often described as a gentleman’s game, has evolved over centuries from a rustic pastime into one of the most popular sports globally. From grassy commons in England to packed stadiums in India, Australia, and beyond, cricket’s journey is a fascinating tale of tradition, innovation, and global expansion. This article traces the history of cricket in detail—from its earliest roots to the modern-day spectacle. Origins of Cricket (Pre-17th Century) Cricket's exact origin is unclear, but most historians agree that the game began in the southern counties of England during the late medieval period . The first known reference to cricket dates back to 1550 , when it was played by children in Surrey. Some theories suggest that it may have originated from shepherds hitting a ball of wool or stones with a crooked stick. The term "cricket" possibly derives from the Middle Dutch word krick(-e) meaning stick, or the Old Engli...