Written long back.
Cricket, nowadays, is the most famous game limited to only a few international level countries and played in three different versions. It may not have been included in the Olympics yet, but we can't rule out its ever-increasing stance as a popular sport. In a few countries, especially the Asian countries, cricket is a craze. It has overhauled the limits of sports and has been placed as a source of pride in the present system.
Geographically, it originated in England and spread in Australia, South-eastern countries of Asia and a few countries in Africa initially. At present, there are ten test and 16 worldcup(ODI) playing nations. It is also rapidly gaining its popularity in the middle east and America.
In its early years, cricket had only one version - five days test matches, comprising of two innings each played by both the teams. Those days, the number of matches played were not significant mainly due to its long duration. It was viewed as a game of youth nawabs who had lots of time to spare. As the time progressed, increase in competitiveness led to its increase reputation as a great sport.
In the later part of the last century, the 50 over per innings (one day) games came into picture and gained incredible popularity among both the entertainers and the entertained groups. It not only led to the quick finish of the matches but also ensured much more entertainment both ini terms of quality and quantity. Though it saw a a bit decrease in talent utilizations, it didn't mattered much. It did bring a change in the way the word 'cricket' used to be viewed. The organisation world cups in the four year intervals just ensures that the spirit is always kept high enough.
In the first decade of this century, the still smaller version of the game was started, called 20-20, increasing its stronghold in the sports world. As the name suggests, its a 20 over an innings game which finishes in less than four hours. It not only brought the increase in participation and entertainment but also played a vital role in changing the outlook of the media and advertising sections.
The journey from IPL1 to IPL2 and Last World Cup to this one, just confirmed the public view of the changing world.
With the new shorter version of the game gaining so much attention worldwide, it'll be unfair if its not included in the Olympics.
