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CRICKET IN INDIA

Fresh SSB batches starting 19th July. Referred articles were published in The Hindu.


"Cricket is not just a game in India, it's a religion, and cricketers are worshipped like gods." 

Introduction 

Cricket is the most popular and passionately followed sport in India. It unites people across regions, languages, and cultures, serving as a source of national pride and identity. From gully cricket in villages to world-class stadiums, the love for the game is deeply rooted in Indian society.

History and Growth
  • Introduced by the British in the 18th century, cricket slowly gained popularity among Indians.
  • The formation of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 1928 formalized the sport’s administration.
  • India played its first Test match in 1932 against England.
  • The turning point came with India’s 1983 Cricket World Cup victory, which inspired generations.
Why Cricket is So Popular in India 🏏 Media Coverage & Fame
  • Cricketers are celebrated like celebrities; matches are widely televised and promoted.
🏏 Success in International Tournaments
  • Winning the World Cups (1983 & 2011) and T20 World Cup (2007) made cricket a household obsession.
🏏 Role Models
  • Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli have inspired millions.
🏏 IPL (Indian Premier League)
  • Launched in 2008, it revolutionized the game with glamour, high salaries, and international players.
  • It created opportunities for young talent and became one of the world’s most-watched leagues.
Contribution to National Unity
  • Cricket brings together people from all regions and backgrounds.
  • Major victories are celebrated collectively, reinforcing a sense of national unity and pride.
Challenges 

❌ Overemphasis on Cricket – Other sports like hockey, kabaddi, and athletics often remain underfunded and ignored.
❌ Match-fixing and Corruption – Past controversies have hurt the image of the game.
❌ Pressure on Young Players – Intense competition and expectations can affect mental health.

Recent Developments
  • India has a strong bench of young cricketers and is a dominant force in all formats of the game.
  • Women’s cricket is gaining popularity and recognition with players like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur.
  • BCCI remains one of the richest and most influential cricket boards globally.
Conclusion 

Cricket in India is more than a sport—it is an emotion that unites the nation. With continued support, investment, and efforts toward promoting other sports as well, India can emerge as a multi-sporting powerhouse while keeping its cricketing legacy alive.

Sachin Jangir

AIR 128, NDA 152

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