The Benefits of Playing Cricket

Thousands of people worldwide play cricket in amateur leagues, local matches and even professional competitions. The sport provides a number of benefits to its players far beyond the sheer enjoyment of the game. While cricket provides the excitement of competition, it also provides physical, mental and social benefits to both children and adults that pick up the bat and stare down the cricket pitch.

Health Benefits

• The health benefits of sports are well-known, and cricket is no exception. Bowling, hitting and catching all require strong arms, while sprinting skills are necessary to score points in many variants of the game. Physical endurance and stamina help fielding players dismiss the batsmen when innings become drawn-out. Even amateur players will see improvements in overall heath by participating in cricket matches, and children will learn the value of physical activity while also enjoying the experience.

Coordination and Mental Benefits

• The most important mental benefit of cricket is an increase in hand-eye coordination. In order to bowl the ball successfully, or to hit that ball as far as possible, the cricket player must develop a keen sense of hand-eye coordination, in addition to focus and determination. These skills are especially important for children to develop at an early age. Adults often lack opportunities to improve their coordination, so cricket offers the chance to refresh skills lost over the years.
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Social Benefits

• Cricket is a team sport. Eleven players must work together for several hours on the field, utilizing strategies to defeat the other team. Since cricket can sometimes allow for periods of little action for some players, team camaraderie is essential to pass the time. Children playing cricket learn cooperation and other social skills, while building a sense of pride and accomplishment when their team wins. Even adults can enjoy the opportunity to foster friendships outside of the office. Victory is all the sweeter when shared!