CBSE Class 9 Social Science: The Story of Cricket NCERT Solutions

Test cricket stands out from most other modern team games due to its extended duration and the possibility of a draw. A Test match can span five days, yet conclude without a winner. Even shorter formats like one-day internationals take a full day, and the T20 format lasts about four hours. In contrast, many contemporary sports are completed within approximately ninety minutes.

This lengthy nature is deeply rooted in cricket's origins during the pre-industrial era, a time of agrarian economies. During agricultural off-seasons, people had ample leisure time, allowing for multi-day matches to be played and watched.

Furthermore, cricket grounds can vary significantly in shape and size across different locations. Historically, cricket was played on common lands, which were often irregular in shape and lacked defined boundaries. The length of the boundary was determined by the umpires' consensus with the team captains, reflecting an informal, adaptable beginning rather than standardized modern venues.

In the nineteenth century, the advent of vulcanised rubber marked a significant technological advancement that impacted cricket equipment. This innovation led to the improved production of protective gear such as pads and gloves, offering better safety and comfort for players.

Conversely, the cricket bat has remained remarkably consistent in its design and function over the years. Despite technological progress in other areas, the fundamental structure and form of the cricket bat have not undergone substantial changes, illustrating a case where technology had a minimal effect on a key piece of equipment.

Cricket gained popularity in India and the West Indies primarily due to the influence of British colonialism. In these regions, the sport was adopted by the local elites as a way to emulate their colonial rulers, integrating it into their social fabric. This adoption was a manifestation of cultural influence and a desire to align with the dominant powers.

In contrast, cricket did not achieve similar popularity in South American countries because these nations were largely not under British rule. Without this historical colonial connection, the sport did not gain the same traction or cultural adoption as it did in British colonies.

1. The Parsis were the first Indian community to set up a cricket club in India. The Parsi community, being prominent businessmen, were among the first in India to adopt Western lifestyles and customs. This included embracing sports like cricket, leading them to establish the earliest Indian cricket clubs.
2. Mahatma Gandhi condemned the Pentangular tournament. Mahatma Gandhi condemned the Pentangular tournament because the teams participating were selected based on religious or communal lines (e.g., Hindus, Muslims, Parsis, Europeans). He viewed such communal divisions in sports as detrimental to national unity.
3. The name of the ICC was changed from the Imperial Cricket Conference to the International Cricket Conference. The name was changed in 1965 to move away from the colonial connotations associated with the term 'Imperial'. As cricket's global reach expanded and more nations gained prominence, 'International' better reflected the sport's worldwide governing body.
4. The shift of the ICC headquarters from London to Dubai. The relocation of the ICC headquarters from London to Dubai was largely a commercial decision. Dubai offered a tax-free environment, which was financially advantageous. Additionally, some view this move as a symbolic shift of power and influence in cricket from Europe towards Asia.

Advances in television technology have profoundly impacted contemporary cricket, transforming it into a highly marketable and lucrative sport. Cricket boards and governing bodies could generate substantial revenue by selling television rights to broadcasting companies.

Television channels, in turn, profited by selling advertising slots during matches. For companies, cricket offered an unparalleled opportunity to advertise their products and services to a vast and engaged audience. This commercialization elevated the financial status of the sport.

Furthermore, continuous television coverage has turned cricketers into celebrities. Beyond their salaries from cricket boards, players began earning significant amounts through endorsements and commercials. Television also expanded the game's audience base, allowing people from smaller towns and villages to follow and enjoy cricket, inspiring many young individuals to aspire to become cricketers by emulating their heroes.