CRICKET FIELD Meaning and
Definition
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A cricket field is a large, grassy area that serves as the playing surface for the sport of cricket. It is defined by a rectangular shape and is typically 137-150 meters long and 115-150 meters wide. The field is demarcated by boundaries marked with a white rope or fence, which outline the playing area where the action of the game takes place.
The cricket field is divided into several essential parts. The most prominent element is the pitch, situated at the center, which is a flat and closely mowed strip of land measuring 20.12 meters in length. The pitch is known to be the crucial area where the bowler delivers the ball to the batsman, and it influences the movement and bounce of the ball during cricket matches.
Located on either side of the pitch are the batting and bowling creases. The batting crease is where the batsman stands to face the bowler, while the bowling crease determines where the bowler must deliver the ball from. Adjacent to the creases are two sets of stumps, comprising three wooden vertical posts, with two bails placed on top.
Additionally, the field features an inner ring, often referred to as the infield, where the fielding team positions themselves closer to the batsman to prevent runs. Beyond the inner ring lies the outfield, which covers the remaining area of the field and is where fielders chase down and return the ball.
The cricket field provides the stage for the fascinating and strategic game of cricket, welcoming players, fans, and officials alike to indulge in the sport's excitement and challenges.
Etymology of CRICKET FIELD
The word "cricket field" can be broken down into two parts: "cricket" and "field".
The term "cricket" originates from the Old French word "criquet", which means a wooden post. Over time, the meaning of "criquet" evolved to refer to the sport itself. "Cricket" may also have connections to the Old English word "cryce", meaning a staff or stick.
The term "field" derives from the Old English word "feld", which referred to an open piece of land. This word eventually developed to describe an area of land used for specific purposes like farming or sports.
Hence, the etymology of the phrase "cricket field" can be traced back to the origins of the word "cricket" as a sport, and the word "field" to signify the open land where the game is played.
