There is no doubt that the game of cricket is reviving in the United States. A once popular sport dating back to centuries which was replaced by another sport, similar in nature – Baseball. While there are signs of cricket growth in the United States, there are cricket challenges too. Let’s talk about some of the challenges of playing cricket in the U.S.
Table of Contents
1. LACK OF CRICKET STADIUMS
There are a very small number of grounds specially designed for cricket in the US. A game of cricket is played in a specific ground with a pitch required to play the game. Due to a lack of cricket stadiums in America, this is one of the reasons as to why the other sports such as baseball, football, basketball rule the sports industry as they are easy to access.
2. POPULARITY OF BASEBALL IN THE U.S
A similar bat and ball game that dominates the country with a massive fan following and top players. Baseball is one of the ancient, beloved 2 player sports played in the U.S. But why do prefer baseball over cricket? Firstly, baseball is a simpler sport if the rules of the game are compared and it is regarded as a good pastime activity that is popular among locals. Families and friends play baseball casually.
Moreover, cricket requires a pitch to play on and a wicket made out of stumps and bails that is placed behind the batting person. This makes it a slightly difficult sport as compared to baseball to set up a game. Baseball requires a simple ground with four bases and two teams to play the with a bat and ball. In addition to that, Cricket varies from one day matches to five day matches with 20-50 overs played by each team. This makes it a pretty hectic sport to watch why is also another reason as to why Americans prefer to watch baseball games as it is more straightforward.
3. CRICKET YOUTH DEVELOPMENT IN THE UNITED STATES
There is still a need for cricket youth programs and facilities across the United States. This can bring more exposure to the country and its locals by training them and giving them a chance to pursue cricket as a career.
However, there are some notable cricket youth development programs which are promoting the game among the children.
The United States Youth Cricket Association is a platform that is helping spread awareness regarding cricket by encouraging cricket in schools etc. It is working hard to spread the love of cricket and its rich culture that is present in other parts of the world.
Author’s Opinion
While cricket is an emerging sport in America, there are still a number of challenges of playing cricket. Moreover, the already established top American sports have a dedicated fan following and resources which are hard for cricket to acquire anytime soon.
COMMON FAQs REGARDING CRICKET
Q. Is Baseball more popular in US than Cricket?
Yes, baseball is one of the top American sports with a high popularity and major leagues and teams across the country.
Q. Are there any Major leagues in the US?
Yes, there has been a Major League Cricket formed which had its first season held in July 2023.
Q. What are the basic rules of Cricket?
Cricket is an exciting competitive sport played between two teams. Here are the common rules of the game:
– There are 11 players in each team.
– There are different formats of the cricket game: one day matches, five day matches and Twenty 20 games.
– The overall objective of the game is more runs than the opposing team.
– Both teams take turns in fielding and batting
Q. Where was cricket originated from?
Cricket originated from parts of England in the 16th century and it is still a popular sport there today.
Q. What equipment is required for the game of Cricket?
The main equipment required is cricket bat, ball and a wicket.
