10 Interesting and Lesser Known Facts about Cricket

The history of cricket dates back to about 200 years. The sport has been played and enjoyed by more than 2 billion people globally. In so much time and in with so many people playing the sport, there have to be some amazing and interesting stories that describe the game. So, in this article by ZAP, let's explore the top 10 interesting and lesser known facts about cricket.

Interesting Facts about Cricket:

1. Sachin Tendulkar was the first player to be declared out by a third umpire

In 1992, during India's tour of South Africa, Sachin Tendulkar became the first player to be declared out by a third umpire. This groundbreaking decision happened in the first Test match, where Tendulkar was adjudged run-out by TV Umpire Karl Liebenberg. The run-out was executed by Jonty Rhodes, marking a significant moment in cricket history with the introduction of technology to aid umpiring decisions.

Also Read: Decision Review System (DRS) in Cricket

2. India is the only country in the world to lift world cups in 60,50 and 20 over formats. 

India holds the unique distinction of winning World Cups in three different formats: 60-over, 50-over, and 20-over. India first lifted the World Cup in 1983 under Kapil Dev's captaincy, when the one-day format comprised 60 overs per side. After a long wait of 28 years, India clinched the 50-over World Cup in 2011, captained by Mahendra Singh Dhoni. In the interim, India also won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, making it the only nation to have triumphed in all three formats of World Cup cricket.

Also Read: 2011 Cricket World Cup | ICC Cricket World Cup Winners

3. Nawab Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi is the only Indian Cricketer to represent England and India

Nawab Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi is the only cricketer to have played Test cricket for both England and India. He first represented England in the infamous Bodyline series against Australia in 1932-33, scoring a century in his debut match. Later, he played for India, featuring in three Tests for England and 46 for India.

4. RG Nadkarni bowled 21 consecutive Maiden overs In a row

Indian spinner RG "Bapu" Nadkarni set a remarkable record in a Test match against England in 1964 by bowling 21 consecutive maiden overs. This feat underscores his exceptional control and precision as a left-arm orthodox spinner.

Also Read: Spin Bowling in Cricket

5. Chris Gayle is the only batsman to hit a six off first ball of a test match 

In 2012, West Indies' explosive batsman Chris Gayle became the first player to hit a six off the very first ball of a Test match. This historic moment occurred in a match against Bangladesh at Mirpur, where Gayle went on to score 18 runs in that opening over, demonstrating his aggressive batting style.

6. Century and ten wicket haul In a single match

Australian cricketer Betty Wilson holds the record for being the first and only player to score a century and take ten wickets in a single Test match. She accomplished this extraordinary feat in 1958, setting a high bar for both men's and women's cricket. Her all-round performance remains unmatched in the history of Test cricket.

7. Brian Lara holds the record of scoring highest individual score in test cricket, that is, 400* 

West Indies legend Brian Lara holds the record for the highest individual score in a Test match, with an unbeaten 400 runs. Lara achieved this monumental score against England in 2004. His remarkable innings continues to be a benchmark in Test cricket, though he believes young talents like India's Yashasvi Jaiswal have the potential to surpass his record.

8. Narendra Modi Stadium, in India is the largest Stadium in the world

Credit: Oneindia

The Narendra Modi Stadium in India, previously known as the Sardar Patel Stadium, is the largest cricket stadium in the world. Located in Ahmedabad, it boasts a seating capacity of 132,000 and a field size of 160 meters by 140 meters. It surpasses the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, which has a capacity of 100,000 seated spectators.

9. WACA Stadium in Perth has the fastest pitch in the world

The WACA Stadium in Perth is renowned for having the fastest pitch in the world. Founded on November 25, 1885, the stadium's unique conditions, including the afternoon sea breeze and the grassy wickets, create an ideal environment for fast bowlers, making it a challenging venue for batsmen.

10. The Women's Cricket World Cup was played before the Men's World Cup

The first Cricket World Cup was played by women in 1973, predating the men's tournament by two years. The inaugural Women's World Cup was held in England and won by the host nation. The first Men's Cricket World Cup followed in 1975, also held in England, and was won by the West Indies. This highlights the pioneering role of women's cricket in establishing the World Cup tradition.

 

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