Cricket is a bat-and-ball sport played between two teams of 11 players each. One team bats to score runs, while the other bowls/fields to restrict runs and dismiss batters.

• The batting team tries to score runs by hitting the ball and running between wickets or hitting boundaries.
• The bowling/fielding team tries to get batters out and limit runs.
• Teams switch roles after each innings, and the side with more runs wins.

• Test Cricket: Played over 5 days, traditional format.
• One Day International (ODI): 50 overs per side.

Twenty20 (T20): 20 overs per side, fastest-growing format.

• Bat
• Ball
• Protective gear (helmet, pads, gloves, abdomen guard)

Stumps & bails (wickets)

• Running between the wickets after hitting the ball.
• Hitting the ball to the boundary:
• 4 runs if the ball touches the ground before crossing.

6 runs if the ball crosses without touching the ground.

Common ways include:

• Bowled (ball hits stumps)
• Caught (fielder catches ball before it touches ground)
• LBW (Leg Before Wicket)
• Run out
• Stumped by the wicketkeeper

An over consists of 6 legal deliveries (balls) bowled by a bowler. The number of overs varies by format (20, 50, or unlimited in Tests).

Each team has 11 players, with a mix of batters, bowlers, all-rounders, and a wicketkeeper.

Yes! Cricket improves endurance, reflexes, hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and strategy. Bowling and fielding are physically demanding, while batting sharpens focus and agility.

• Combines strategy, skill, and excitement.
• Played and watched by millions worldwide, especially in India, England, Australia, Pakistan, South Africa, New Zealand, West Indies, and Sri Lanka.
• Offers multiple formats to suit different audiences (long and short).

1. Willow Type

• English Willow (Grades 1–4): Preferred for its light weight and high performance—but costlier. Higher grades mean cleaner grains and generally better quality.
• Kashmiri Willow: More affordable and durable-good for practice or budget-conscious players. 

2. Weight & Balance

• Heavy bats (2.10–2.12 lbs): Ideal for powerful hitters.
• Balanced/lightweight bats (around 2.8–2.10 lbs): Better for control and stroke play. 

3. Handle Type

• Oval handles: Offer stability.
• Round handles: Better for wrist mobility.
• Some newer hybrid handles reduce vibration for more comfort.

4. Toe & Edge Reinforcement

• Features like toe guards (e.g., SS Carbon Flex) help protect the bat and extend its life. 

5. Adherence to Regulations

• In IPL and professional cricket, bats must stay within specific size limits (e.g., edge thickness ≤ 4 cm, depth ≤ 6.7 cm, width ≤ 10.8 cm) to ensure fair play.