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The Indian Men's Cricket Team Celebrates a wicket together

How many countries in the world play cricket

Cricket, originating in England, has evolved into a global sport with over 2 billion followers. The ODI World Cup 2023 in India drew massive attendance and TV viewership, indicating its global popularity. Despite dominance in the Asian subcontinent, cricket faces limited recognition in Europe and the Americas. Exploring its history, the role of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the transition from Tests to T20s, the blog addresses the question of how many countries play cricket. The ICC, with 108 member nations, categorizes them into Full and Associate Members, promoting global expansion. The evolution of cricket, especially the T20 format and leagues like the IPL, contributes to its increasing popularity. The ICC's efforts and the T20's global appeal suggest a growing number of countries participating in cricket, with the sport set to feature in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

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A blind cricket player batting

Cricket Beyond Vision: Diving into Blind Cricket's Essence

Blind Cricket, an inclusive sport for the visually impaired, adapts the game with larger balls emitting sounds for trajectory guidance. Players are categorized based on visual impairment levels, and unique rules include limited sighted players on the pitch. The World Blind Cricket Council oversees the sport globally, with ten complete member nations. Five Blind Cricket World Cups have been held, and India dominates the T20 format, securing three consecutive victories. The Indian National Blind Cricket team, initiated by CABI, has triumphed in various international competitions. Fielding relies on spatial awareness and communication.

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Sunriser Hyderabad IPL Team celebrates with the IPL Trophy 2016

From Deccan Chargers to Sunrisers Hyderabad: A Legacy Born in Orange

In the 2016 IPL season, Royal Challengers Bangalore faced Sunrisers Hyderabad, who emerged victorious, denying them the trophy. The Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL team, owned by Deccan Chronicle and Sun TV Network, has a history dating back to the Deccan Chargers. The team faced ups and downs, changing captains over the years, including Kumar Sangakkara, Cameron White, Shikhar Dhawan, and David Warner. In 2016, SRH won their first IPL championship, but Warner was suspended for a ball-tampering incident in 2018. In 2021, SRH struggled and Warner was sacked from captaincy midseason, leading to a fallout between the player and the franchise. In 2022, the team finished 8th with Aiden Markram as captain and Brian Lara as head coach. The Sunrisers Hyderabad has been a decent side since its formation, with success coming when led by experienced players like Warner and Shikhar. With the acquisition of Pat Cummins for 20.5 Crore, the team should improve their games and prepare for the 2024 IPL season.

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The Australian Cricket Team players celebrate winning the World Cup Trophy

Ranking the Best Cricket Playing Nations

Cricket, a sport with a 200-year history, originated in England and evolved into a global phenomenon. Currently played in 108 countries, with 12 full-time ICC members dominating. Australia, winning the ICC ODI World Cup a record 6 times, stands out as the greatest cricket-playing nation. India follows with 2 World Cup victories, contributing significantly to cricket's global popularity. West Indies and Sri Lanka, once dominant, faced decline. England, the sport's birthplace, won the 2019 World Cup. Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa have unique histories, while Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe enrich cricket's diverse landscape. Australia's cricket dominance remains unparalleled, making it the best cricket-playing country in history.

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Virat Kohli and Babar Azam having a conversation before an India vs Pakistan match

Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: Who is the Better Player?

The cricket world is awash with debates over the performance of Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. Kohli, who made his international debut in 2008, has played in over 150 One-Day Internationals and has over 20 centuries. He has been the fastest player to reach 2,000 ODI runs in just 47 matches. Despite playing twice as many games as Azam, Kohli is a master of the One-Day International cricket format and has a higher average and strike rate. Despite the six-year age difference, Azam has the chance of surpassing Kohli in ODIs. Kohli has the most runs and an average of 52.73 in T20Is and Tests, leading the tally with 8,676 runs in 111 matches. He has won Player of the Tournament awards in ICC Tournaments, T20 World Cups, and ODI World Cups. Kohli's fitness has revolutionized the importance of fitness in Indian cricket, making him one of the highest-paid celebrities in India.

 

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The Narendra Modi cricket Stadium, the largest cricket ground in the world

Cricket Grounds in India: From the Biggest to the Oldest

India, passionate about cricket, boasts 53 stadiums, surpassing others by a large margin. Cricket isn't just a game; it's a way of life, with professional stadiums serving as dreams' birthplaces. ZAP explores India's cricket ground history, spotlighting iconic venues like Kolkata's Eden Gardens and Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. From historical matches to IPL team homes, each ground holds unique significance. The Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad reigns as India's largest, while the Eden Gardens stands as the oldest, dating back to 1864.

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Yuvraj Singh celebrates with a roar after knocking Australia out of the 2011 World Cup

Yuvraj Singh: The Hero of the Indian Cricket Team

Yuvraj Singh, an iconic Indian cricketer, epitomizes the spirit of sports by overcoming both on-field challenges and a battle with cancer. From his early days shaped by his father, former cricketer Yograj Singh, to achieving milestones in international cricket, Yuvraj's journey is marked by resilience. Notably, his stellar performances in the 2007 T20 World Cup, where he hit six consecutive sixes, and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, where he battled health issues to help India win, showcase his indomitable spirit. Beyond cricket, Yuvraj's autobiography, "The Test of My Life," delves into his triumphs and the emotional fight against cancer. His impact in the IPL, fielding prowess, and numerous records, including being the first to hit six sixes in a T20I over, further solidify his cricket legacy.

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Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli

Who is the New King of Cricket: Shubman Gill vs Babar Azam?

Virat Kohli, the Modern King of Cricket, is defined by aura, dedication, and excellence. The article explores potential successors, focusing on Shubman Gill and Babar Azam. Gill, a rising Indian star, displays exceptional talent but lacks Kohli's leadership and energy. Babar Azam, Pakistan's batting gem, competes with Kohli but falls short in influence and captaincy. The conclusion firmly crowns Virat Kohli as the current King of Cricket, emphasizing his unparalleled legacy and impact on the sport.

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The Rajasthan Royals Team players pose for the IPL Team photo

Rajasthan Royals Cricket Team: IPL's Best Underdog Story

The Rajasthan Royals Cricket Team, led by Shane Warne, achieved a remarkable underdog victory in the inaugural 2008 IPL. Despite ownership challenges and a 2-year ban in 2016-2017, their IPL journey has seen highs and lows. Notable players include Sanju Samson and Shane Warne. The team's home ground is Sawai Mansingh Stadium, and their iconic slogan is "Halla Bol." The Royals have a historic rivalry with Punjab Kings. Key records include Sanju Samson's 3,211 runs and the highest team score of 226/6. Despite inconsistency, optimism persists with young talents, guided by experienced players like Yuzvendra Chahal and Jos Buttler.

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