CHAPTER IV.BATTING.An expert batsman experiences unspeakable pleasure during his innings. Cricketers glory in him, his friends delight in him, and the sweetest smile of his best girl emphasizes his triumph.Nearly every young American learns base ball before cricket. When he first stands before a wicket, he is almost paralysed by the fear of losing it. Nothing corresponding to it appears upon the diamond. When his wicket has been successfully attacked a few times he is disheartened, and is likely to abandon cricket and return to his first love. This is a critical period in the history of the beginner. But a hint from a cricketer able and willing to explain that the straight ball can be successfully met by the straight bat may open the gate of cricket to him.No. 6—THE LATE BLOCK.Courage, energy and decision, mark the successful cricketer.A good excuse is more easily made than a good play.“A straight bat” is the technical term for an upright bat, as distinguished from a “cross bat.” It should also be explained to all aspirants that the regulation wicket was not constructed for beginners but for expert batsmen. But let us not digress from the blunt “straight bat question,” which staggers the “man out,” as did the straight ball his wicket. Why can a batsman who wields a “straight bat” make a long stand, and why does the bowler delight in the man who plays a “cross bat?” The answer is simple. A “cross bat” must of necessity be an imperfect defense for a perpendicular wicket.The minds of many boys seem to be constructed upon the “cross bat” plan, but when they play the upright game of cricket with an upright bat, an upright boy is the likely father of an upright man.Every beginner aspires for the results of batting which are recorded by the scorer, conveniently ignoring the hard work of those who by many patient efforts have reached comparative perfection. But the repeated loss of his wicket will force him to reason out why a straight bat thwarts the bowler’s efforts, and why when playing a “cross bat” he has been unconciously reducing his defense in a ratio of four to one. To help this reasoning process let us demonstrate by stating that the batsman’s wicket without the bails presents to the bowler a surface of 216 square inches. The batsman who wields a straight bat covers about 120 square inches of the wicket, hands and gloves increasing it to about 130 inches. The “cross bat” presents a defense of only 34 square inches, or one-fourth that of a “straight bat,” the hands and gloves ceasing to the part of the defense for a “cross bat.” When the legs and pads of the batter are added to the defense, the bowler would seem to have an almost impossible task to “out” the wielder of the “straight bat.” Yet the “man out” seldom understands it, for he has not profited by the tremendous mathematical advantage of a “straight bat” over a “cross bat.” When this difference is appreciated and acted upon, the lesson of “blocking” has been learned and the batsman may expect scores: for he is ready to hit intelligently.Each ball is a lesson to the eye of the batsman who has learned to play a “straight bat.” The forward block as shown in illustration, must obtain for well pitched balls rising to the bails. The bat must be forwarded to the ball with left shoulder well over it, the bat carried at an angle of about 70°, the eye of the batsman being intently fixed upon it in order to insure against personal accidents. Such action, if prompt, forces the ball forwards towards the bowler. If the ball is met by the bat it strikes the ground at the angle of least resistance, bounds quickly into the field, and a run may result. Having given at length the necessity for the “block” as well as the scientific reasons for the play, we will refer the reader to illustrations Nos. 3, 4, 5 and 6, which show the “forward block,” the “half forward block,” the “half back block” and the “late block.” If the young cricketer will study the attitudes taken by Mr. George Bromhead when making the four characteristic blocks, he will see that each ball must be blocked in a manner appropriate to itself.Thus far only the defensive use of the bat has been considered. But it is a weapon as well as a shield. The tendency of beginners is to ignore the shield and use the weapon. One of the objects of these pages is to emphasize the shield, thereby perfecting the wield of the weapon, and multiplying the opportunities for its use. Let us close this portion of the chapter on batting with the remark that the defense of the wicket is an absolute necessity. It must be cultivated by beginners and practiced by experts. After it is thoroughly learned, like swimming, it is never forgotten. The batter must also resemble the swimmer in another important point, for the swimmer must continue swimming while in the water, and the batter must continue “blocking” during the rest of his career.The hit is the evidence of successful batting. An opportunity taken. The result hoped for by the batter. As in blocking, well defined principles govern the successful hit, which depends:1st—Upon its true conception by the batsman.2nd.—Upon its being properly timed.3d.—Upon the amount of energy transmitted by the batsman to the ball.Last but most important, the correct handling of the bat while in contact with the ball.Hits divide themselves into the natural, which comprise all hits to the “leg,” or “on” side of the wicket, and the acquired which include all hits to the “off” side. There are three distinct “leg” hits resulting from striking short pitched, well pitched, and full pitched, balls together with numerous sub-varieties following strikes of leg balls which vary from standard lengths.1st.—The stroke from a “short” or “half volley” leg ball should be to square leg or a little forward of that point, with the bat held at such an angle that the ball will strike the ground twenty or thirty feet from the crease. It is with regret that we observe that this beautiful hit is often elevated into the hands of the nimble fielder.2nd.—The hit resulting from the well pitched leg ball, which the perfect batsman strikes as it rises, to that part of the field just back of short leg. The appearance of the batsman while making this satisfying hit is illustrated in figure 7.3d.—The full pitched leg ball can be properly dealt with in at least three ways by the perfect batsman. First, he can drive it to long field if not far to leg. Second, he can wait its arrival to a point between the umpire and himself, strike it on the fly to the rear of that long robed individual, bounding to the ropes. Third, while playing the waiting game an instant longer he may turn his person two-thirds around on his left foot, and strike the ball from the rear to sharp leg.All natural hits require determination and energy on the part of the batter if good results are expected. Modern cricket does not prepare itself for natural hits. On the contrary the beginner as well as the expert will have few balls delivered to him opportune for these hits.The modern bowler is instructed to force the “off” or unnatural upon the batsman. But during long matches even the best bowlers send up flukes, notwithstanding the elaborate instructions in Chapter 3. Batsmen must therefore understand what is expected of them, and we do not hesitate to say, that the batter who can deal with good bowling can usually make the “loose” show upon the score. Many balls are delivered upon the leg side, from which only the best batsmen can score.Illustration No. 8, shows Mr. Bromhead preparing to drive a nearly straight ball to the mid-wicket on.The on drives will always excite the admiration of cricketers. The shoulders, arms and wrists though most prominent promoters of these beautiful hits are assisted by every muscle of the body. They exemplify human energy and force. The upright bat plays the prominent place in this hit, and we must insist that the learner ignores the “cross bat” if he hopes for success.No. 7—THE LEG HIT.The element of danger is almost eliminated by constant watchfulness.The mind of a brilliant fielder, extends to the ends of his fingers and toes.The perfect batsman plays every ball with a purpose. Illustration No. 9, shows how to play a well pitched ball wending its way towards the leg stump. This ball he robs of all its dangerous tendency by forwarding his bat toward the bowler, carried at an angle of 85, and almost perpendicular. This position presents almost a full blade to the ball, thereby defending his wicket, but also forces it to glance to the short legs.No. 10, illustrates a safe and easy method of scoring from a ball not far enough off the wicket to risk a leg hit. Guarding the wicket does not enter into the batter’s calculations. But he forces the bat, carried at an angle of about 70 degrees against the advancing ball, which rapidly finds its way towards sharp leg. We cannot leave this portion of our chapter until we emphasize the part the shoulders should play in making the natural hits. It is in our judgement to be regretted that the exigincies of the game have largely remanded the shoulder hitter to the back ground; but it must be acknowledged that he is no longer the power in the game he was prior to the period of special “off” bowling. But the best “trundlers” give chances to the shoulder hitter, and when accepted the spectator feels gratified that the science of cricket has been momentarily relaxed. If the muscular power of the batsman be not fully exerted upon the natural hits, we think all good cricketers will agree with us, that safety demands that the ball should be “let alone.”The modern captain instructs his bowlers to give preference to “off” rather than “on” balls, and places his field in accordance. If the bowlers do their full duty, the batter must score from unnatural hits only, if at all.1st.—He may receive a short pitch “off” ball, which he can drive to mid off, or “cover,” or he may “pull it” to “leg” by advancing his right leg towards point, thereby assuming the natural attitude, and acting as if it were a leg ball.2nd.—The over pitched “off” ball the batsman drives to long field, or over the bowler’s head. These “off” balls require little beyond a correct eye and ready hand. But the modern batsman who expects great success must learn to “cut,” for the large proportion of balls delivered are best suited for cutting.There are three distinct varieties of cuts. First, the forward cut. Second, the square off cut. Third, the late cut. Each play resulting from the relative position of the ball to the batsman while he is making the hit. All the cuts are made from rising balls distinctly to the off. When an off ball falls outside of the line of safety for a forward play, the batsman instantly prepares himself for the forward cut. This he does by elevating the bat as in No. 11, at the same moment turning his face towards point, with his right foot somewhat advanced in the same direction, using his left as a pivot. This movement towards the advancing ball enables him to reach the spot it is soon likely to occupy. Then while carrying his bat at an angle of about 70, he suddenly brings it down with a chopping motion until it comes in contact with the ball, which moves rapidly towards the boundary in a line between point and mid-wicket. This hit is illustrated by No. 12. It is effective, as it has a tendency to spread the field forward.No. 8—PREPARED TO DRIVE “ON.”The Cricket Field says with truth: “You won’t win by a hitting game if there is no hit in you,” and adds in somewhat different language, “the game to carry you through is the game you play best.”No. 13, illustrates the position of the batter while making the square cut. This hit is made from a ball rising to the off but falling somewhat farther from the line of the wicket than that from which the forward cut is made. Were the batter to stand firm in his position it would be an impossibility for him to strike this ball, for it must be remembered that it is advancing obliquely towards point, and that it will have moved a considerable distance in that direction by the time it arrives opposite the batsman. But it is his business to move towards the ball, so that he can at least try to hit it. Mahomet must go to the mountain, for it is quite evident that the mountain is rapidly moving away from Mahomet. Having elevated his bat as in No. 11, the batsman takes a long stride with his right foot along the line of the popping crease, then suddenly and forcibly bringing down his bat carried at an angle of 70°, he “cuts” the ball towards point.The late or back cut is beautiful as well as the safest and most graceful hit in the repertoire of the batsman. But he must posess experience of no mean order to guide the bat to strike the ball, which is moving by him at a double acute angle and usually at a rapid rate; for instead of facing the ball and meeting it with his bat as in the forward and square off cut, he turns his person two-thirds around towards the wicket keeper using his left foot for a pivot. Then he takes a long stride with his right towards short slip, which moves him in the direction of the motion of the ball. While these movements are in progress the batter has elevated his weapon with which he strikes the ball a blow, oblique with its course after it has passed the line of the wicket in the direction of the slips. If the bat is held at an angle of about 50° when it strikes, the ball will rebound from the turf and elude the nimble fielder. The force of the late cut is tremendous, as it combines the power of the shoulder hit with the speed of the ball. The cut is such an effective play that the snick has largely encroached upon it. We do not desire to condemn the tip or snick, for it is a frequent counter, but only desire to warn beginners, not to flatter themselves into the belief that snicks are cuts.The off bowler has come to stay, and if batters want scores they must cut. Batters are justly proud of their ability to cut, though but comparatively few make a clean hard hit of it. The tap is more usual, while for certain bowling safe and effective. The tap is from the wrist, while the cut is a combination of arm, wrist and shoulder.For clean hard cuts the Scotts of Belmont, Lord Hawke and George Patterson may be cited as exponents. The power behind their cuts is phenominal. The cutting of any of these is a study for experts.No. 9—Playing a Well-Pitched Straight Ball on Leg Stump.John Wisden says on page 25 of hisCricket and How to Play It: “A thoroughly good, active, lively and fearless wicket keeper does more to win matches than almost any man on the field.” We wish he had made his remarks more emphatic by omitting the word “almost.” We think, if Wisden had spent the last few years in America, and had seen the disastrous effects of reducing that all important position to the rank of an out-fielder, he would have used language quite as emphatic as that found in these pages.
An expert batsman experiences unspeakable pleasure during his innings. Cricketers glory in him, his friends delight in him, and the sweetest smile of his best girl emphasizes his triumph.
Nearly every young American learns base ball before cricket. When he first stands before a wicket, he is almost paralysed by the fear of losing it. Nothing corresponding to it appears upon the diamond. When his wicket has been successfully attacked a few times he is disheartened, and is likely to abandon cricket and return to his first love. This is a critical period in the history of the beginner. But a hint from a cricketer able and willing to explain that the straight ball can be successfully met by the straight bat may open the gate of cricket to him.
No. 6—THE LATE BLOCK.
No. 6—THE LATE BLOCK.
Courage, energy and decision, mark the successful cricketer.
A good excuse is more easily made than a good play.
“A straight bat” is the technical term for an upright bat, as distinguished from a “cross bat.” It should also be explained to all aspirants that the regulation wicket was not constructed for beginners but for expert batsmen. But let us not digress from the blunt “straight bat question,” which staggers the “man out,” as did the straight ball his wicket. Why can a batsman who wields a “straight bat” make a long stand, and why does the bowler delight in the man who plays a “cross bat?” The answer is simple. A “cross bat” must of necessity be an imperfect defense for a perpendicular wicket.The minds of many boys seem to be constructed upon the “cross bat” plan, but when they play the upright game of cricket with an upright bat, an upright boy is the likely father of an upright man.
Every beginner aspires for the results of batting which are recorded by the scorer, conveniently ignoring the hard work of those who by many patient efforts have reached comparative perfection. But the repeated loss of his wicket will force him to reason out why a straight bat thwarts the bowler’s efforts, and why when playing a “cross bat” he has been unconciously reducing his defense in a ratio of four to one. To help this reasoning process let us demonstrate by stating that the batsman’s wicket without the bails presents to the bowler a surface of 216 square inches. The batsman who wields a straight bat covers about 120 square inches of the wicket, hands and gloves increasing it to about 130 inches. The “cross bat” presents a defense of only 34 square inches, or one-fourth that of a “straight bat,” the hands and gloves ceasing to the part of the defense for a “cross bat.” When the legs and pads of the batter are added to the defense, the bowler would seem to have an almost impossible task to “out” the wielder of the “straight bat.” Yet the “man out” seldom understands it, for he has not profited by the tremendous mathematical advantage of a “straight bat” over a “cross bat.” When this difference is appreciated and acted upon, the lesson of “blocking” has been learned and the batsman may expect scores: for he is ready to hit intelligently.
Each ball is a lesson to the eye of the batsman who has learned to play a “straight bat.” The forward block as shown in illustration, must obtain for well pitched balls rising to the bails. The bat must be forwarded to the ball with left shoulder well over it, the bat carried at an angle of about 70°, the eye of the batsman being intently fixed upon it in order to insure against personal accidents. Such action, if prompt, forces the ball forwards towards the bowler. If the ball is met by the bat it strikes the ground at the angle of least resistance, bounds quickly into the field, and a run may result. Having given at length the necessity for the “block” as well as the scientific reasons for the play, we will refer the reader to illustrations Nos. 3, 4, 5 and 6, which show the “forward block,” the “half forward block,” the “half back block” and the “late block.” If the young cricketer will study the attitudes taken by Mr. George Bromhead when making the four characteristic blocks, he will see that each ball must be blocked in a manner appropriate to itself.
Thus far only the defensive use of the bat has been considered. But it is a weapon as well as a shield. The tendency of beginners is to ignore the shield and use the weapon. One of the objects of these pages is to emphasize the shield, thereby perfecting the wield of the weapon, and multiplying the opportunities for its use. Let us close this portion of the chapter on batting with the remark that the defense of the wicket is an absolute necessity. It must be cultivated by beginners and practiced by experts. After it is thoroughly learned, like swimming, it is never forgotten. The batter must also resemble the swimmer in another important point, for the swimmer must continue swimming while in the water, and the batter must continue “blocking” during the rest of his career.
The hit is the evidence of successful batting. An opportunity taken. The result hoped for by the batter. As in blocking, well defined principles govern the successful hit, which depends:
1st—Upon its true conception by the batsman.
2nd.—Upon its being properly timed.
3d.—Upon the amount of energy transmitted by the batsman to the ball.
Last but most important, the correct handling of the bat while in contact with the ball.
Hits divide themselves into the natural, which comprise all hits to the “leg,” or “on” side of the wicket, and the acquired which include all hits to the “off” side. There are three distinct “leg” hits resulting from striking short pitched, well pitched, and full pitched, balls together with numerous sub-varieties following strikes of leg balls which vary from standard lengths.
1st.—The stroke from a “short” or “half volley” leg ball should be to square leg or a little forward of that point, with the bat held at such an angle that the ball will strike the ground twenty or thirty feet from the crease. It is with regret that we observe that this beautiful hit is often elevated into the hands of the nimble fielder.
2nd.—The hit resulting from the well pitched leg ball, which the perfect batsman strikes as it rises, to that part of the field just back of short leg. The appearance of the batsman while making this satisfying hit is illustrated in figure 7.
3d.—The full pitched leg ball can be properly dealt with in at least three ways by the perfect batsman. First, he can drive it to long field if not far to leg. Second, he can wait its arrival to a point between the umpire and himself, strike it on the fly to the rear of that long robed individual, bounding to the ropes. Third, while playing the waiting game an instant longer he may turn his person two-thirds around on his left foot, and strike the ball from the rear to sharp leg.
All natural hits require determination and energy on the part of the batter if good results are expected. Modern cricket does not prepare itself for natural hits. On the contrary the beginner as well as the expert will have few balls delivered to him opportune for these hits.The modern bowler is instructed to force the “off” or unnatural upon the batsman. But during long matches even the best bowlers send up flukes, notwithstanding the elaborate instructions in Chapter 3. Batsmen must therefore understand what is expected of them, and we do not hesitate to say, that the batter who can deal with good bowling can usually make the “loose” show upon the score. Many balls are delivered upon the leg side, from which only the best batsmen can score.
Illustration No. 8, shows Mr. Bromhead preparing to drive a nearly straight ball to the mid-wicket on.
The on drives will always excite the admiration of cricketers. The shoulders, arms and wrists though most prominent promoters of these beautiful hits are assisted by every muscle of the body. They exemplify human energy and force. The upright bat plays the prominent place in this hit, and we must insist that the learner ignores the “cross bat” if he hopes for success.
No. 7—THE LEG HIT.
No. 7—THE LEG HIT.
The element of danger is almost eliminated by constant watchfulness.
The mind of a brilliant fielder, extends to the ends of his fingers and toes.
The perfect batsman plays every ball with a purpose. Illustration No. 9, shows how to play a well pitched ball wending its way towards the leg stump. This ball he robs of all its dangerous tendency by forwarding his bat toward the bowler, carried at an angle of 85, and almost perpendicular. This position presents almost a full blade to the ball, thereby defending his wicket, but also forces it to glance to the short legs.
No. 10, illustrates a safe and easy method of scoring from a ball not far enough off the wicket to risk a leg hit. Guarding the wicket does not enter into the batter’s calculations. But he forces the bat, carried at an angle of about 70 degrees against the advancing ball, which rapidly finds its way towards sharp leg. We cannot leave this portion of our chapter until we emphasize the part the shoulders should play in making the natural hits. It is in our judgement to be regretted that the exigincies of the game have largely remanded the shoulder hitter to the back ground; but it must be acknowledged that he is no longer the power in the game he was prior to the period of special “off” bowling. But the best “trundlers” give chances to the shoulder hitter, and when accepted the spectator feels gratified that the science of cricket has been momentarily relaxed. If the muscular power of the batsman be not fully exerted upon the natural hits, we think all good cricketers will agree with us, that safety demands that the ball should be “let alone.”
The modern captain instructs his bowlers to give preference to “off” rather than “on” balls, and places his field in accordance. If the bowlers do their full duty, the batter must score from unnatural hits only, if at all.
1st.—He may receive a short pitch “off” ball, which he can drive to mid off, or “cover,” or he may “pull it” to “leg” by advancing his right leg towards point, thereby assuming the natural attitude, and acting as if it were a leg ball.
2nd.—The over pitched “off” ball the batsman drives to long field, or over the bowler’s head. These “off” balls require little beyond a correct eye and ready hand. But the modern batsman who expects great success must learn to “cut,” for the large proportion of balls delivered are best suited for cutting.
There are three distinct varieties of cuts. First, the forward cut. Second, the square off cut. Third, the late cut. Each play resulting from the relative position of the ball to the batsman while he is making the hit. All the cuts are made from rising balls distinctly to the off. When an off ball falls outside of the line of safety for a forward play, the batsman instantly prepares himself for the forward cut. This he does by elevating the bat as in No. 11, at the same moment turning his face towards point, with his right foot somewhat advanced in the same direction, using his left as a pivot. This movement towards the advancing ball enables him to reach the spot it is soon likely to occupy. Then while carrying his bat at an angle of about 70, he suddenly brings it down with a chopping motion until it comes in contact with the ball, which moves rapidly towards the boundary in a line between point and mid-wicket. This hit is illustrated by No. 12. It is effective, as it has a tendency to spread the field forward.
No. 8—PREPARED TO DRIVE “ON.”
No. 8—PREPARED TO DRIVE “ON.”
The Cricket Field says with truth: “You won’t win by a hitting game if there is no hit in you,” and adds in somewhat different language, “the game to carry you through is the game you play best.”
No. 13, illustrates the position of the batter while making the square cut. This hit is made from a ball rising to the off but falling somewhat farther from the line of the wicket than that from which the forward cut is made. Were the batter to stand firm in his position it would be an impossibility for him to strike this ball, for it must be remembered that it is advancing obliquely towards point, and that it will have moved a considerable distance in that direction by the time it arrives opposite the batsman. But it is his business to move towards the ball, so that he can at least try to hit it. Mahomet must go to the mountain, for it is quite evident that the mountain is rapidly moving away from Mahomet. Having elevated his bat as in No. 11, the batsman takes a long stride with his right foot along the line of the popping crease, then suddenly and forcibly bringing down his bat carried at an angle of 70°, he “cuts” the ball towards point.
The late or back cut is beautiful as well as the safest and most graceful hit in the repertoire of the batsman. But he must posess experience of no mean order to guide the bat to strike the ball, which is moving by him at a double acute angle and usually at a rapid rate; for instead of facing the ball and meeting it with his bat as in the forward and square off cut, he turns his person two-thirds around towards the wicket keeper using his left foot for a pivot. Then he takes a long stride with his right towards short slip, which moves him in the direction of the motion of the ball. While these movements are in progress the batter has elevated his weapon with which he strikes the ball a blow, oblique with its course after it has passed the line of the wicket in the direction of the slips. If the bat is held at an angle of about 50° when it strikes, the ball will rebound from the turf and elude the nimble fielder. The force of the late cut is tremendous, as it combines the power of the shoulder hit with the speed of the ball. The cut is such an effective play that the snick has largely encroached upon it. We do not desire to condemn the tip or snick, for it is a frequent counter, but only desire to warn beginners, not to flatter themselves into the belief that snicks are cuts.
The off bowler has come to stay, and if batters want scores they must cut. Batters are justly proud of their ability to cut, though but comparatively few make a clean hard hit of it. The tap is more usual, while for certain bowling safe and effective. The tap is from the wrist, while the cut is a combination of arm, wrist and shoulder.For clean hard cuts the Scotts of Belmont, Lord Hawke and George Patterson may be cited as exponents. The power behind their cuts is phenominal. The cutting of any of these is a study for experts.
No. 9—Playing a Well-Pitched Straight Ball on Leg Stump.
No. 9—Playing a Well-Pitched Straight Ball on Leg Stump.
John Wisden says on page 25 of hisCricket and How to Play It: “A thoroughly good, active, lively and fearless wicket keeper does more to win matches than almost any man on the field.” We wish he had made his remarks more emphatic by omitting the word “almost.” We think, if Wisden had spent the last few years in America, and had seen the disastrous effects of reducing that all important position to the rank of an out-fielder, he would have used language quite as emphatic as that found in these pages.
CHAPTER V.THE MANAGEMENT OF A MATCH.It should be constantly borne in mind that when arrangements for a match are being made, that the pleasure to be afforded by the game should be the first desideratum. A fixture having been arranged, let us suppose that the appointing power has named the elevens. The players should immediately meet and elect their captain. If the play of the opposing teams is even, the eleven with the best captain will win two out of three matches. He should be chosen from among the superior five. If in addition to his being captain he should be wicket keeper as well, chances are in favor of that eleven, as from that position he can silently direct the movement of any fielder without being observed by the batsman. The captains should be granted absolute obedience from fielders, for upon discipline depends the result. The captain should be a natural leader, of more than average physical endurance. He should be of sanguine disposition, always encouraging his men to renewed efforts even though disaster is imminent. He should command respect and obedience rather than exact it. He should be firm but not overbearing, earnest but not anxious, serene and not pompous in his bearing. Upon his judgement in posting his little army depends the score of his rivals. He ought to be a careful student of the capabilities in his own ranks as well as in those of his adversary.Upon the day of the proposed match the captain of the “home” eleven should reach the ground at least one hour before “play” is to be called. This timely arrival gives him leisure to assure himself that the wicket has been selected and rolled, places of absentees filled by substitutes, that lunch has been prepared, and that all the petty commissions including lemons and saw dust have been executed. The visitors having been welcomed, their captain interviewed, and the toss won, a consultation with his eleven should precede the decision of “ins” or “outs” according to condition of ground, weather, and players. A soft turf presents great advantages to the “outs,” whereas weather not foggy enough to prevent play may give tremendous advantages to the batsman. While deciding this important point the captain is entitled to the most intelligent assistance from his fellow players.No. 10—SCORING FROM A WELL-PITCHED LEG BALL.The good ball takes the wicket.There is “a length which Mr. Felix says brings over a man most indescribable emotions.”Before calling “play” the umpires must be selected. These individuals are usually overlooked in unimportant games, but to their credit “let it be recorded” that almost without exception they become the impartial judge, whose absolute authority is acknowledged by all. To their further repute when judging their own batters, (for in local matches the umpires are usually chosen from among the “ins”), let it be said all abide by their decisions, right or wrong. A flagrantly incorrect decision is usually reversed by the united wish of the players; for all pleasure would be destroyed if such accidental result should obtain. For trophy matches the umpires should be specially chosen because of their thorough knowledge of cricket, as well as for their patient unbiased judgement. Prompt decision following close observation, assures implicit obedience on the part of players and satisfaction to all. Their first duty after consulting the two captains and before the first ball has been bowled is to fix the hours of drawing stumps, and all details of time limits. The captain of the “ins” having numbered and placed his batters, while the captain of the “outs” has marshalled his field; the umpires assume control. After “play” is called their power is absolute, and their decisions final.The work of the captain now begins. The “outs” if well disciplined depend largely upon the instinctive aptness of their leader. His assumption of the double role of captain and wicket keeper is notice to his men that however severe they may deem their duties, his require greater muscular strength, greater activity, greater continuance of effort and energy, greater brain power and keener eyesight than theirs. Every danger to which the fielders may be exposed is shared by the captain. When the ball is struck to any fielder an unobstructed view of it enables him to perform his duties without fear, for the watchful eye robs it of danger.Not so the wicket keeper, for the opaque batsman increased in size by pads, gloves, and bat, moves in uncertain areas between him and the bowler. Every passed ball has been momentarily obscured—practically lost for perhaps the one-twentieth of a second, to the man who is expected to receive it. We think it will be cheerfully acknowledged by all, that the man who ignoring personal danger, finds a succession of passed balls through a long match, anyone of which were it to strike his face would finish his day’s career, is a leader to be proud of. The ambition of the individual who can combine wicket keeper with captain to the satisfaction of his eleven need not be limited to one hemisphere. The points to be carefully watched by captains are:1st.—Bowler’s lengths and speeds, with a view to pointing out batsmen’s weak points.2d.—Change of bowlers, to thwart batsmen who show indications of making a stand.3d.—Watchful care of bowlers’ physical endurance, with a view of changing for rest.4th.—Easing fielders whose duties require long journeys between overs.5th.—Anticipating and preventing overthrows, by keeping the attention of the fielders upon the ball.6th.—Preventing accidents from collisions, by promptly naming the fielder who shall try to catch an elevated ball likely to drop between men at even distances from its approach.7th.—Willingness to answer questions without annoyance.8th.—He should caution his men against excessive practice just before “play” is called, also against overloading the stomach before batting, a habit which has a tendency to obscure the sight, as well as to dull the mental and physical energy.9th.—He should know that every man is properly equipped, especially as to cap, spikes and shoes.10th.—Last, but not least, he should watch the telegraph, keeping rather better posted in every detail of the game than any one on the ground.His duties though arduous and continuous, will be a delight to himself and a joy to his men.No. 11—READY FOR THE FORWARD CUT.Bat for the score instead of the gallery.Cricket is a game of skill against skill.A good cricketer is apt to be a good catch.
It should be constantly borne in mind that when arrangements for a match are being made, that the pleasure to be afforded by the game should be the first desideratum. A fixture having been arranged, let us suppose that the appointing power has named the elevens. The players should immediately meet and elect their captain. If the play of the opposing teams is even, the eleven with the best captain will win two out of three matches. He should be chosen from among the superior five. If in addition to his being captain he should be wicket keeper as well, chances are in favor of that eleven, as from that position he can silently direct the movement of any fielder without being observed by the batsman. The captains should be granted absolute obedience from fielders, for upon discipline depends the result. The captain should be a natural leader, of more than average physical endurance. He should be of sanguine disposition, always encouraging his men to renewed efforts even though disaster is imminent. He should command respect and obedience rather than exact it. He should be firm but not overbearing, earnest but not anxious, serene and not pompous in his bearing. Upon his judgement in posting his little army depends the score of his rivals. He ought to be a careful student of the capabilities in his own ranks as well as in those of his adversary.
Upon the day of the proposed match the captain of the “home” eleven should reach the ground at least one hour before “play” is to be called. This timely arrival gives him leisure to assure himself that the wicket has been selected and rolled, places of absentees filled by substitutes, that lunch has been prepared, and that all the petty commissions including lemons and saw dust have been executed. The visitors having been welcomed, their captain interviewed, and the toss won, a consultation with his eleven should precede the decision of “ins” or “outs” according to condition of ground, weather, and players. A soft turf presents great advantages to the “outs,” whereas weather not foggy enough to prevent play may give tremendous advantages to the batsman. While deciding this important point the captain is entitled to the most intelligent assistance from his fellow players.
No. 10—SCORING FROM A WELL-PITCHED LEG BALL.
No. 10—SCORING FROM A WELL-PITCHED LEG BALL.
The good ball takes the wicket.
There is “a length which Mr. Felix says brings over a man most indescribable emotions.”
Before calling “play” the umpires must be selected. These individuals are usually overlooked in unimportant games, but to their credit “let it be recorded” that almost without exception they become the impartial judge, whose absolute authority is acknowledged by all. To their further repute when judging their own batters, (for in local matches the umpires are usually chosen from among the “ins”), let it be said all abide by their decisions, right or wrong. A flagrantly incorrect decision is usually reversed by the united wish of the players; for all pleasure would be destroyed if such accidental result should obtain. For trophy matches the umpires should be specially chosen because of their thorough knowledge of cricket, as well as for their patient unbiased judgement. Prompt decision following close observation, assures implicit obedience on the part of players and satisfaction to all. Their first duty after consulting the two captains and before the first ball has been bowled is to fix the hours of drawing stumps, and all details of time limits. The captain of the “ins” having numbered and placed his batters, while the captain of the “outs” has marshalled his field; the umpires assume control. After “play” is called their power is absolute, and their decisions final.
The work of the captain now begins. The “outs” if well disciplined depend largely upon the instinctive aptness of their leader. His assumption of the double role of captain and wicket keeper is notice to his men that however severe they may deem their duties, his require greater muscular strength, greater activity, greater continuance of effort and energy, greater brain power and keener eyesight than theirs. Every danger to which the fielders may be exposed is shared by the captain. When the ball is struck to any fielder an unobstructed view of it enables him to perform his duties without fear, for the watchful eye robs it of danger.Not so the wicket keeper, for the opaque batsman increased in size by pads, gloves, and bat, moves in uncertain areas between him and the bowler. Every passed ball has been momentarily obscured—practically lost for perhaps the one-twentieth of a second, to the man who is expected to receive it. We think it will be cheerfully acknowledged by all, that the man who ignoring personal danger, finds a succession of passed balls through a long match, anyone of which were it to strike his face would finish his day’s career, is a leader to be proud of. The ambition of the individual who can combine wicket keeper with captain to the satisfaction of his eleven need not be limited to one hemisphere. The points to be carefully watched by captains are:
1st.—Bowler’s lengths and speeds, with a view to pointing out batsmen’s weak points.
2d.—Change of bowlers, to thwart batsmen who show indications of making a stand.
3d.—Watchful care of bowlers’ physical endurance, with a view of changing for rest.
4th.—Easing fielders whose duties require long journeys between overs.
5th.—Anticipating and preventing overthrows, by keeping the attention of the fielders upon the ball.
6th.—Preventing accidents from collisions, by promptly naming the fielder who shall try to catch an elevated ball likely to drop between men at even distances from its approach.
7th.—Willingness to answer questions without annoyance.
8th.—He should caution his men against excessive practice just before “play” is called, also against overloading the stomach before batting, a habit which has a tendency to obscure the sight, as well as to dull the mental and physical energy.
9th.—He should know that every man is properly equipped, especially as to cap, spikes and shoes.
10th.—Last, but not least, he should watch the telegraph, keeping rather better posted in every detail of the game than any one on the ground.
His duties though arduous and continuous, will be a delight to himself and a joy to his men.
No. 11—READY FOR THE FORWARD CUT.
No. 11—READY FOR THE FORWARD CUT.
Bat for the score instead of the gallery.
Cricket is a game of skill against skill.
A good cricketer is apt to be a good catch.
CHAPTER VI.GENERAL REMARKS.Some cricketers never seem to get beyond the “beginning” period, and it is in vain to expect anyone to delight in a thing which he cannot do fairly well. If these lines can convey a hint or two they will have accomplished a most satisfactory purpose.Let us for a moment watch a batsman plant himself before the wicket as though with the determination to stay there the remainder of the day. His mental purpose becomes his weakness, for no preconceived idea of what one’s opponent will do is at all likely to occur. The cricketer is always a creature of circumstances over which he usually has little or no control, but of which he must be ever ready to take immediate advantage. We used the words “plant himself” advisedly, for no other suits. Having planted, a vigorous growth should follow, but the disappointed spectator sees only a machine cricketer trying to force hands and wrists to do the duty, which they should but assist the arms and shoulders in doing. The beauty of the game is sacrificed to the ounce of precaution, which may have been too much emphasized by an over careful captain. While the game is in progress cricketers should be active mentally as well as physically, and they have only themselves to thank for the erroneous impression which has become prevalent that cricket is a sleepy game. It is waste of time to play a pure defensive game, and if the inveterate blocker could waste only his own time none would have any right to complain, but that of at least twenty-five others is being sacrificed at the same moment, until from that and many other delays a game capable of giving delight has become so little understood, even by American cricketers themselves that only foreigners can draw a crowd.The blindness of Americans to their own short comings was illustrated by their attitude during the recent visit of the Irish Team. The universal confidence in themselves, was only equalled by the pity expressed for their visitors who were expected to fall an easy prey to the representatives of Uncle Sam. Americans have set up a standard of their own, and many have persuaded themselves to believe in methods which occasionally succeed, but when the Englishman is at his best the American has invariably been defeated, excuses taking the place of good play, which are so generally accepted that American cricket has temporarily retrograded.This retrogression has been caused chiefly by ignoring the importance of the wicket keeper. The star known as the aggressive batter, or perhaps he had better be called a comet, has turned the heads of American cricketers. We are all sovereigns, though many of us cannot show that amount of cash, and why should we not all be star batsmen? The object is easily accomplished if the wicket keeper can be got rid of. The attempt has not only been made, but has been actually imposed upon the American public as cricket; for though wearing the armor of that great office, he is located ten to fifteen feet behind the batsman, thereby becoming a fielder; with the tremendious consequence that first-class wicket keeping is rarely seen in America. But we have many aggressive batters, who settle down into first-rate bats when in the presence of a standard wicket keeper. We say most of them, advisedly, for a star will shine, wicket keeper, or no wicket keeper. The true aggressive batsman is a combination of cause and effect which no amount of ambition can even hope to imitate. Brain, guiding muscle, with discipline resulting from long and patient training. He can take almost any liberty with the bowler, he can play inside or outside his crease, for the dangerous ball never reaches the wicket keeper. But it must be remembered that he is a star. He is the perfect batsman referred to on several occasions, who hits every ball which does not threaten his wicket, and many that do. His powerful physique, eagle eye, and energetic mind have given him a place beyond his companions. That instinctive knowledge of the presence of a man immediately behind him who will down his wicket with a smile of satisfaction, must be forever present in the mind of the batter. American cricketers may ignore him, but when America meets her English competitor and hopes for the like convenient ignorance, she is sure to have her pride injured.A match is never lost ’till it is won, and the unexpected may at any time happen, which is a great charm in the game. The disappointment which follows the fall of wicket after wicket, simply because the reliable bat has had the misfortune to be bowled, is not easily described, but we have experienced the keenest anguish when the catastrophy has happened to our side; while excessive buoyancy seems to have taken posession of and intoxicated our opponents. The American audience is so completely bent upon victory that good cricket is momentarily lost sight of. If cricketers will remember that superior play ought to be the object, and will forget the result, these exhibitions of inferior cricket will be fewer. The courage and nerve which are sure to follow careful training and good discipline, can and will prepare each batter to depend upon himself, rather than follow a bad example.Fielding is too much neglected for the more pleasant occupation of batting. The net is a useful invention, a tremendous time saver, thoroughly in accord with other economic devices of the age, but it has not improved fielding. Fielders should practice their art when the game is not in progress if they expect success while the eyes of spectators are concentrated upon a hard hit ball. The silence which follows faulty fielding is quite as emphatic as the cry of “muff” or “butter-fingers.” The fielder is always on exhibition in the proportion of eleven to one batter, so that his opportunities for the display of either good or bad play are many. If cricketers will bring to their game the excellent qualities displayed upon the diamond, theirs will soon be recognized as the popular game. Greater interest is felt in fine fielding than in brilliant batting by the spectator, though from a cricketers standpoint a finished batsman will always be the favorite. There seems no excuse for poor fielding unless to permit the second-rate bat to score double figures. It is with much regret that we feel the necessity of dwelling upon this subject at length, but these hints would be otherwise incomplete. Before closing we desire to thank Mr. S. V. Merrick, Secretary of the Germantown Cricket Club, for his kind assistance while these photographs were being taken at Manheim.The atitudes of Mr. George Bromhead, their professional cricketer, which illustrates this essay, were made instanteneously, and wherever possible while bat and ball were in motion. It may therefore be assumed that for the purpose of either “beginner” or “expert” these positions are as close to life as it is possible to secure them.No. 12—MAKING THE FORWARD CUT.“Play as ‘tall’ as you can.”—Wisden.Good bowling surprises the batter by twists, by balls of different lengths, and balls of varied speed.
Some cricketers never seem to get beyond the “beginning” period, and it is in vain to expect anyone to delight in a thing which he cannot do fairly well. If these lines can convey a hint or two they will have accomplished a most satisfactory purpose.
Let us for a moment watch a batsman plant himself before the wicket as though with the determination to stay there the remainder of the day. His mental purpose becomes his weakness, for no preconceived idea of what one’s opponent will do is at all likely to occur. The cricketer is always a creature of circumstances over which he usually has little or no control, but of which he must be ever ready to take immediate advantage. We used the words “plant himself” advisedly, for no other suits. Having planted, a vigorous growth should follow, but the disappointed spectator sees only a machine cricketer trying to force hands and wrists to do the duty, which they should but assist the arms and shoulders in doing. The beauty of the game is sacrificed to the ounce of precaution, which may have been too much emphasized by an over careful captain. While the game is in progress cricketers should be active mentally as well as physically, and they have only themselves to thank for the erroneous impression which has become prevalent that cricket is a sleepy game. It is waste of time to play a pure defensive game, and if the inveterate blocker could waste only his own time none would have any right to complain, but that of at least twenty-five others is being sacrificed at the same moment, until from that and many other delays a game capable of giving delight has become so little understood, even by American cricketers themselves that only foreigners can draw a crowd.
The blindness of Americans to their own short comings was illustrated by their attitude during the recent visit of the Irish Team. The universal confidence in themselves, was only equalled by the pity expressed for their visitors who were expected to fall an easy prey to the representatives of Uncle Sam. Americans have set up a standard of their own, and many have persuaded themselves to believe in methods which occasionally succeed, but when the Englishman is at his best the American has invariably been defeated, excuses taking the place of good play, which are so generally accepted that American cricket has temporarily retrograded.
This retrogression has been caused chiefly by ignoring the importance of the wicket keeper. The star known as the aggressive batter, or perhaps he had better be called a comet, has turned the heads of American cricketers. We are all sovereigns, though many of us cannot show that amount of cash, and why should we not all be star batsmen? The object is easily accomplished if the wicket keeper can be got rid of. The attempt has not only been made, but has been actually imposed upon the American public as cricket; for though wearing the armor of that great office, he is located ten to fifteen feet behind the batsman, thereby becoming a fielder; with the tremendious consequence that first-class wicket keeping is rarely seen in America. But we have many aggressive batters, who settle down into first-rate bats when in the presence of a standard wicket keeper. We say most of them, advisedly, for a star will shine, wicket keeper, or no wicket keeper. The true aggressive batsman is a combination of cause and effect which no amount of ambition can even hope to imitate. Brain, guiding muscle, with discipline resulting from long and patient training. He can take almost any liberty with the bowler, he can play inside or outside his crease, for the dangerous ball never reaches the wicket keeper. But it must be remembered that he is a star. He is the perfect batsman referred to on several occasions, who hits every ball which does not threaten his wicket, and many that do. His powerful physique, eagle eye, and energetic mind have given him a place beyond his companions. That instinctive knowledge of the presence of a man immediately behind him who will down his wicket with a smile of satisfaction, must be forever present in the mind of the batter. American cricketers may ignore him, but when America meets her English competitor and hopes for the like convenient ignorance, she is sure to have her pride injured.
A match is never lost ’till it is won, and the unexpected may at any time happen, which is a great charm in the game. The disappointment which follows the fall of wicket after wicket, simply because the reliable bat has had the misfortune to be bowled, is not easily described, but we have experienced the keenest anguish when the catastrophy has happened to our side; while excessive buoyancy seems to have taken posession of and intoxicated our opponents. The American audience is so completely bent upon victory that good cricket is momentarily lost sight of. If cricketers will remember that superior play ought to be the object, and will forget the result, these exhibitions of inferior cricket will be fewer. The courage and nerve which are sure to follow careful training and good discipline, can and will prepare each batter to depend upon himself, rather than follow a bad example.
Fielding is too much neglected for the more pleasant occupation of batting. The net is a useful invention, a tremendous time saver, thoroughly in accord with other economic devices of the age, but it has not improved fielding. Fielders should practice their art when the game is not in progress if they expect success while the eyes of spectators are concentrated upon a hard hit ball. The silence which follows faulty fielding is quite as emphatic as the cry of “muff” or “butter-fingers.” The fielder is always on exhibition in the proportion of eleven to one batter, so that his opportunities for the display of either good or bad play are many. If cricketers will bring to their game the excellent qualities displayed upon the diamond, theirs will soon be recognized as the popular game. Greater interest is felt in fine fielding than in brilliant batting by the spectator, though from a cricketers standpoint a finished batsman will always be the favorite. There seems no excuse for poor fielding unless to permit the second-rate bat to score double figures. It is with much regret that we feel the necessity of dwelling upon this subject at length, but these hints would be otherwise incomplete. Before closing we desire to thank Mr. S. V. Merrick, Secretary of the Germantown Cricket Club, for his kind assistance while these photographs were being taken at Manheim.The atitudes of Mr. George Bromhead, their professional cricketer, which illustrates this essay, were made instanteneously, and wherever possible while bat and ball were in motion. It may therefore be assumed that for the purpose of either “beginner” or “expert” these positions are as close to life as it is possible to secure them.
No. 12—MAKING THE FORWARD CUT.
No. 12—MAKING THE FORWARD CUT.
“Play as ‘tall’ as you can.”—Wisden.
Good bowling surprises the batter by twists, by balls of different lengths, and balls of varied speed.
CHAPTER VII.DEFINITIONS.Bowler’s Crease.—A lime line, one inch to one and one-half inches wide, six feet eight inches long, the centre stump being taken as the centre of the measurement, parallel with the popping crease.Call.—It is the duty of the colleague batsman to watch the opportunity for scoring for two reasons. First his attention is not otherwise occupied. Second, a slight loss of time occurs if the batsman after striking a ball turns his head to look whether an opportunity for a run has arrived. Captains too often do not give rigid instructions upon this most important duty (supposing that cricketers know their business), and also from a desire not to offend a batter. The unnecessary “run out” being the result. The two men in together should have an understanding, and when the “call” is given there should be such perfect confidence in the “caller” that the run is attempted without misgiving or hesitation.Crease.—The portion of the field set apart and prepared by rolling, upon which to erect the wickets.No. 13—THE SQUARE CUT.A good fielder makes an effort to stop every ball which comes his way not always expecting or even hoping to reach it but to keep up his own spirits as well as that of his companions.Guard or Block.—The position of defense selected by the batter to place the point of his bat. Most batters request the umpire to stand upon the spot from which the bowler will deliver. If the batter holds his bat erect the blade will conceal two stumps from the view of the umpire. This spot is carefully dented in the turf by the bat. Taking guard is optional with batters.Innings.—In single wicket, the whole number of both sides having gone to the bat and been decided out by the umpire. In double wicket, eleven men having gone in and ten having been given out on each side.On.—If a line is extended from boundary to boundary, passing through the middle of the centre stump of each wicket, all that portion of the field to the left of the line for a right-hand batter, is the “leg,” or “on” side of the wicket.Off.—While all that portion of the field to the right of the line while a right-handed batter is performing, is the “off” side of the wicket. The reverse obtains for left-handers. These terms areRELATIVEto the batter. They may change with the batsman every “over,” or with every ball.Popping Crease.—A line marked four feet in front of the wicket and parallel to it, extending from boundary to boundary. Only about six feet of this line is whitened with lime to guide the umpire and to define the runs.Shooter.—A ball which from any cause does not rise from the ground.Tice.—A ball bowled to tempt a batter to strike.Wicket.—The wicket seems to have developed from a hole in the ground into which the fielders placed the ball to “put out” the batsman. A single stick eighteen inches high displaced the hole. Two upright sticks each a foot high placed two feet apart with a bail two feet long succeeded the single stick in the year 1700. The years 1781, 1814, and 1817 are all memorable for changes in the wicket, which since the latter year has remained the same. Single wicket cricket only was played until 1710, when the Scotch developed double wicket under the name of “cat and dog.” The game has been and is a progressive one, each generation revealing improvements. The diagram shows the various sizes and shapes of the wicket:Diagram of Wicket dimensions.Wicket.—Three stumps twenty-seven inches high, so erected that they shall be eight inches from outside to outside, with bails laid in grooves upon the top. The stumps composing the wicket must be of such thickness that the ball cannot pass between them.Wicket.—A batter given “out” by the umpire for any cause.Wicket.—The “crease” as a whole with special reference to the surfacing.No. 14—THE LATE OR BACK CUT.Science has demonstrated that the atmosphere is not dense enough to account for the air curve of the ball; but the batter who is thereby “out” derives no consolation from the scientists’ conclusion.
Bowler’s Crease.—A lime line, one inch to one and one-half inches wide, six feet eight inches long, the centre stump being taken as the centre of the measurement, parallel with the popping crease.
Call.—It is the duty of the colleague batsman to watch the opportunity for scoring for two reasons. First his attention is not otherwise occupied. Second, a slight loss of time occurs if the batsman after striking a ball turns his head to look whether an opportunity for a run has arrived. Captains too often do not give rigid instructions upon this most important duty (supposing that cricketers know their business), and also from a desire not to offend a batter. The unnecessary “run out” being the result. The two men in together should have an understanding, and when the “call” is given there should be such perfect confidence in the “caller” that the run is attempted without misgiving or hesitation.
Crease.—The portion of the field set apart and prepared by rolling, upon which to erect the wickets.
No. 13—THE SQUARE CUT.
No. 13—THE SQUARE CUT.
A good fielder makes an effort to stop every ball which comes his way not always expecting or even hoping to reach it but to keep up his own spirits as well as that of his companions.
Guard or Block.—The position of defense selected by the batter to place the point of his bat. Most batters request the umpire to stand upon the spot from which the bowler will deliver. If the batter holds his bat erect the blade will conceal two stumps from the view of the umpire. This spot is carefully dented in the turf by the bat. Taking guard is optional with batters.
Innings.—In single wicket, the whole number of both sides having gone to the bat and been decided out by the umpire. In double wicket, eleven men having gone in and ten having been given out on each side.
On.—If a line is extended from boundary to boundary, passing through the middle of the centre stump of each wicket, all that portion of the field to the left of the line for a right-hand batter, is the “leg,” or “on” side of the wicket.
Off.—While all that portion of the field to the right of the line while a right-handed batter is performing, is the “off” side of the wicket. The reverse obtains for left-handers. These terms areRELATIVEto the batter. They may change with the batsman every “over,” or with every ball.
Popping Crease.—A line marked four feet in front of the wicket and parallel to it, extending from boundary to boundary. Only about six feet of this line is whitened with lime to guide the umpire and to define the runs.
Shooter.—A ball which from any cause does not rise from the ground.
Tice.—A ball bowled to tempt a batter to strike.
Wicket.—The wicket seems to have developed from a hole in the ground into which the fielders placed the ball to “put out” the batsman. A single stick eighteen inches high displaced the hole. Two upright sticks each a foot high placed two feet apart with a bail two feet long succeeded the single stick in the year 1700. The years 1781, 1814, and 1817 are all memorable for changes in the wicket, which since the latter year has remained the same. Single wicket cricket only was played until 1710, when the Scotch developed double wicket under the name of “cat and dog.” The game has been and is a progressive one, each generation revealing improvements. The diagram shows the various sizes and shapes of the wicket:
Diagram of Wicket dimensions.
Wicket.—Three stumps twenty-seven inches high, so erected that they shall be eight inches from outside to outside, with bails laid in grooves upon the top. The stumps composing the wicket must be of such thickness that the ball cannot pass between them.
Wicket.—A batter given “out” by the umpire for any cause.
Wicket.—The “crease” as a whole with special reference to the surfacing.
No. 14—THE LATE OR BACK CUT.
No. 14—THE LATE OR BACK CUT.
Science has demonstrated that the atmosphere is not dense enough to account for the air curve of the ball; but the batter who is thereby “out” derives no consolation from the scientists’ conclusion.
CHAPTER VIII.LAWS OF CRICKET.—AS REVISED BY THE MARLEYBONE CRICKET CLUB, MAY, 1890.1. A match is played between two sides of eleven players each, unless otherwise agreed to; each side has two innings, taken alternately, except in the case provided for in Law 53. The choice of innings shall be decided by tossing.2. The score shall be reckoned by runs. A run is scored—1st, so often as the batsmen after a hit, or at any time while the ball is in play, shall have crossed, and made good their ground from end to end. 2d, for penalties under Laws 16, 34, 41, and allowances under 44. Any run or runs so scored shall be duly recorded by scorers appointed for the purpose. The side which scores the greatest number of runs wins the match. No match is won unless played out or given up, except in the case provided for in Law 45.3. Before the commencement of the match two umpires shall be appointed, one for each end.4. The ball shall weigh not less than 5½ oz., nor more than 5¾ oz. It shall measure not less than 9 in. nor more than 9¼ in. in circumference. At the beginning of each innings either side may demand a new ball.5. The bat shall not exceed 4¼ in. in the widest part; it shall not be more than 38 in. in length.6. The wickets shall be pitched opposite and parallel to each other, at a distance of 22 yards. Each wicket shall be 8 in. in width and consist of three stumps, with two bails upon the top. The stumps shall be of equal and sufficient size to prevent the ball from passing through, and 27 in. out of the ground. The bails shall be each 4 in. in length and when in position, on the top of the stumps, shall not project more than ½ in. above them. The wickets shall not be changed during a match, unless the ground between them become unfit for play, and then only by consent of both sides.7. The bowling crease shall be in a line with the stumps 6 ft. 8 in. in length; the stumps in the center, with a return crease at each end, at right angles behind the wicket.8. The popping crease shall be marked 4 ft. from the wicket, parallel to it, and be deemed unlimited in length.9. The ground shall not be rolled, watered, covered, mown or beaten during a match, except before the commencement of each innings and of each day’s play, when, unless the inside object, the ground shall be swept and rolled for not more than ten minutes. This shall not prevent the batsman from beating the ground with his bat, nor the batsmen nor bowler from using sawdust in order to obtain a proper foothold.10. The ball must be bowled; if thrown or jerked, the umpire shall call “No ball.”11. The bowler shall deliver the ball with one foot on the ground behind the bowling crease, and within the return crease, otherwise the umpire shall call “No ball.”12. If the bowler shall bowl the ball so high over or so wide of the wicket that in the opinion of the umpire it is not within reach of the striker, the umpire shall call “Wide ball.”13. The ball shall be bowled in overs of five balls from each wicket alternately. When five balls have been bowled and the ball is finally settled in the bowler’s or wicket-keeper’s hands, the umpire shall call “Over.” Neither a “no ball” nor a “wide ball” shall be reckoned as one of the “over.”14. The bowler shall be allowed to change ends as often as he pleases, provided only that he does not bowl two overs consecutively in one innings.15. The bowler may require the batsman at the wicket from which he is bowling to stand on that side of it which he may direct.16. The striker may hit a “no-ball,” and whatever runs result shall be added to his score; but he shall not be out from a “no ball,” unless he be run out, or break Laws 26, 27, 29, 30. All runs made from a “no-ball,” otherwise than from the bat, shall be scored “no-balls,” and if no run be made one run shall be added to that score. From a “wide ball” as many runs as are run shall be added to the score as “wide balls,” and if no run be otherwise obtained one run shall be so added.17. If the ball, not having been called “wide” or “no-ball,” pass the striker, without touching his bat or person, and any runs be obtained, the umpire shall call “Bye;” but if the ball touch any part of the striker’s person (hand excepted) and any run be obtained, the umpire shall call “Leg-bye,” such runs to be scored “byes” and “leg-byes” respectively.18. At the beginning of the match, and of each innings, the umpire at the bowler’s wicket shall call “Play;” from that time no trial ball shall be allowed to any bowler on the ground between the wickets, and when one of the batsman is out the use of the bat shall not be allowed to any person until the next batsman shall come in.19. A batsman shall be held to be “out of his ground” unless his bat in hand or some part of his person be grounded within the line of the popping crease.20. The wicket shall be held to be “down” when either of the bails is struck off, or, if both bails be off, when a stump is struck out of the ground.The striker is out:21. If the wicket be bowled down, even if the ball first touch the striker’s bat or person:—“Bowled.”22. Or, if the ball, from a stroke of the bat or hand, but not the wrist, be held before it touch the ground, although it be hugged to the body of the catcher:—“Caught.”23. Or, if in playing at the ball, provided it be not touched by the bat or hand, the striker be out of his ground, and the wicket be put down by the wicket-keeper with the ball or with the hand or arm, with ball in hand:—“Stumped.”24. Or, if with any part of his person he stop the ball, which in the opinion of the umpire at the bowler’s wicket shall have been pitched in a straight line from it to the strikers wicket and would have hit it:—“Leg before wicket.”25. Or, if in playing at the ball he hit down his wicket with his bat or any part of his person or dress:—“Hit wicket.”26. Or, if under pretense of running, or otherwise, either of the batsmen willfully prevent a ball from being caught:—“Obstructing the field.”27. Or, if the ball be struck, or be stopped by any part of his person, and he willfully strike it again, except it be done for the purpose of guarding his wicket, which he may do with his bat, or any part of his person, except his hands:—“Hit the ball twice.”Either batsman is out:28. If in running, or at any other time, while the ball is in play he be out of his ground, and his wicket be struck down by the ball after touching any fieldsman, or by the hand or arm, with ball in hand, or any fieldsman:—“Run out.”29. Or, if he touch with his hands or take up the ball while in play, unless at the request of the opposite side:—“Handled the ball.”30. Or if he willfully obstruct any fieldsman:—“Obstructing the field.”31. If the batsmen have crossed each other, he that runs for the wicket which is put down is out; if they have not crossed, he that has left the wicket which is put down is out.32. The striker being caught no run shall be scored. A batsman being run out, that run which was being attempted shall not be scored.33. A batsman being out from any cause, the ball shall be “dead.”34. If a ball in play cannot be found or recovered, any fieldsman may call “Lost Ball,” when the ball shall be “dead:” six runs shall be added to the score, but if more than six runs have been run before “lost ball” has been called, as many runs as have been run shall be scored.35. After the ball shall have been finally settled in the wicket-keeper’s or bowler’s hand it shall be “dead;” but when the bowler is about to deliver the ball, if the batsman at his wicket be out of his ground before actual delivery, the said bowler may run him out; but if the bowler throw at that wicket and any run result it shall be scored “no ball.”36. A batsman shall not retire from his wicket and return to it to complete his innings after another has been in without the consent of the opposite side.37. A substitute shall be allowed to field or run between wickets for any player who may during the match be incapacitated from illness or injury, but for no other reason, except with the consent of the opposite side.38. In all cases where a substitute shall be allowed, the consent of the opposite side shall be obtained as to the person to act as substitute and the place in the field which he shall take.39. In case any substitute shall be allowed to run between wickets, the striker may be run out if either he or his substitute be out of his ground. If the striker be out of his ground while the ball is in play, that wicket which he has left may be put down and the striker given out, although the other batsman may have made good the ground at that end, and the striker and his substitute at the other end.40. A batsman is liable to be out for any infringement of the laws by his substitute.41. The fieldsman may stop the ball with any part of his person, but if he willfully stop it otherwise the ball shall be “dead,” and five runs added to the score. Whatever runs may have been made five only shall be added.42. The wicket-keeper shall stand behind the wicket. If he shall take the ball for the purpose of stumping before it has passed the wicket, or if he shall incommode the striker by any noise, or motion, or if any part of his person be over or before the wicket, the striker shall not be out, excepting under Laws 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30.43. The umpires are the sole judges of fair or unfair play, of the fitness of the ground, the weather, and the light for play; all disputes shall be determined by them, and if they disagree the actual state of things shall continue.44. They shall pitch ther wickets, arrange boundaries where necessary, and the allowances to be made for them, and change ends after each side has had one innings.45. They shall allow two minutes for each striker to come in and ten minutes between each innings. When they shall call “Play,” the side refusing to play shall lose the match.46. They shall not order a batsman out unless appealed to by the other side.47. The umpire at the bowler’s wicket shall be appealed to before the other umpire in all cases except in those of stumping, hit the wicket, run out at the striker’s wicket, or arising under Law 42, but in any case in which an umpire is unable to give a decision he shall appeal to the other umpire, whose decision shall be final.48 A. If the umpire at the bowler’s end be not satisfied of the absolute fairness of the delivery of any ball, he shall call “No ball.”48 B. The umpire shall take especial care to call “No ball” instantly upon delivery, “Wide ball” as soon as it shall have passed the striker.49. If either batsman run a short run, the umpire shall call “One short,” and the run shall not be scored.50. After the umpire has called “Over” the ball is “dead” but an appeal may be made as to whether either batsman is out, such appeal, however, shall not be made after the delivery of the next ball, nor after any cessation of play.51. No umpire shall be allowed to bet.52. No umpire shall be changed during a match unless with the consent of both sides, except in case of violation of Law 51, then either side may dismiss him.53. The side which goes in second shall follow their innings if they have scored eighty runs less than the opposite side.54. On the last day of a match, and in a one-day match at any time, the in-side shall be empowered to declare their innings at an end.ONE-DAY MATCHES.1. The side which goes in second shall follow their innings if they have scored sixty runs less than the opposite side.2. The match, unless played out, shall be decided by the first innings.3. Prior to the commencement of a match it may be agreed that the over consist of 5 or 6 balls.
1. A match is played between two sides of eleven players each, unless otherwise agreed to; each side has two innings, taken alternately, except in the case provided for in Law 53. The choice of innings shall be decided by tossing.
2. The score shall be reckoned by runs. A run is scored—1st, so often as the batsmen after a hit, or at any time while the ball is in play, shall have crossed, and made good their ground from end to end. 2d, for penalties under Laws 16, 34, 41, and allowances under 44. Any run or runs so scored shall be duly recorded by scorers appointed for the purpose. The side which scores the greatest number of runs wins the match. No match is won unless played out or given up, except in the case provided for in Law 45.
3. Before the commencement of the match two umpires shall be appointed, one for each end.
4. The ball shall weigh not less than 5½ oz., nor more than 5¾ oz. It shall measure not less than 9 in. nor more than 9¼ in. in circumference. At the beginning of each innings either side may demand a new ball.
5. The bat shall not exceed 4¼ in. in the widest part; it shall not be more than 38 in. in length.
6. The wickets shall be pitched opposite and parallel to each other, at a distance of 22 yards. Each wicket shall be 8 in. in width and consist of three stumps, with two bails upon the top. The stumps shall be of equal and sufficient size to prevent the ball from passing through, and 27 in. out of the ground. The bails shall be each 4 in. in length and when in position, on the top of the stumps, shall not project more than ½ in. above them. The wickets shall not be changed during a match, unless the ground between them become unfit for play, and then only by consent of both sides.
7. The bowling crease shall be in a line with the stumps 6 ft. 8 in. in length; the stumps in the center, with a return crease at each end, at right angles behind the wicket.
8. The popping crease shall be marked 4 ft. from the wicket, parallel to it, and be deemed unlimited in length.
9. The ground shall not be rolled, watered, covered, mown or beaten during a match, except before the commencement of each innings and of each day’s play, when, unless the inside object, the ground shall be swept and rolled for not more than ten minutes. This shall not prevent the batsman from beating the ground with his bat, nor the batsmen nor bowler from using sawdust in order to obtain a proper foothold.
10. The ball must be bowled; if thrown or jerked, the umpire shall call “No ball.”
11. The bowler shall deliver the ball with one foot on the ground behind the bowling crease, and within the return crease, otherwise the umpire shall call “No ball.”
12. If the bowler shall bowl the ball so high over or so wide of the wicket that in the opinion of the umpire it is not within reach of the striker, the umpire shall call “Wide ball.”
13. The ball shall be bowled in overs of five balls from each wicket alternately. When five balls have been bowled and the ball is finally settled in the bowler’s or wicket-keeper’s hands, the umpire shall call “Over.” Neither a “no ball” nor a “wide ball” shall be reckoned as one of the “over.”
14. The bowler shall be allowed to change ends as often as he pleases, provided only that he does not bowl two overs consecutively in one innings.
15. The bowler may require the batsman at the wicket from which he is bowling to stand on that side of it which he may direct.
16. The striker may hit a “no-ball,” and whatever runs result shall be added to his score; but he shall not be out from a “no ball,” unless he be run out, or break Laws 26, 27, 29, 30. All runs made from a “no-ball,” otherwise than from the bat, shall be scored “no-balls,” and if no run be made one run shall be added to that score. From a “wide ball” as many runs as are run shall be added to the score as “wide balls,” and if no run be otherwise obtained one run shall be so added.
17. If the ball, not having been called “wide” or “no-ball,” pass the striker, without touching his bat or person, and any runs be obtained, the umpire shall call “Bye;” but if the ball touch any part of the striker’s person (hand excepted) and any run be obtained, the umpire shall call “Leg-bye,” such runs to be scored “byes” and “leg-byes” respectively.
18. At the beginning of the match, and of each innings, the umpire at the bowler’s wicket shall call “Play;” from that time no trial ball shall be allowed to any bowler on the ground between the wickets, and when one of the batsman is out the use of the bat shall not be allowed to any person until the next batsman shall come in.
19. A batsman shall be held to be “out of his ground” unless his bat in hand or some part of his person be grounded within the line of the popping crease.
20. The wicket shall be held to be “down” when either of the bails is struck off, or, if both bails be off, when a stump is struck out of the ground.
The striker is out:
21. If the wicket be bowled down, even if the ball first touch the striker’s bat or person:—“Bowled.”
22. Or, if the ball, from a stroke of the bat or hand, but not the wrist, be held before it touch the ground, although it be hugged to the body of the catcher:—“Caught.”
23. Or, if in playing at the ball, provided it be not touched by the bat or hand, the striker be out of his ground, and the wicket be put down by the wicket-keeper with the ball or with the hand or arm, with ball in hand:—“Stumped.”
24. Or, if with any part of his person he stop the ball, which in the opinion of the umpire at the bowler’s wicket shall have been pitched in a straight line from it to the strikers wicket and would have hit it:—“Leg before wicket.”
25. Or, if in playing at the ball he hit down his wicket with his bat or any part of his person or dress:—“Hit wicket.”
26. Or, if under pretense of running, or otherwise, either of the batsmen willfully prevent a ball from being caught:—“Obstructing the field.”
27. Or, if the ball be struck, or be stopped by any part of his person, and he willfully strike it again, except it be done for the purpose of guarding his wicket, which he may do with his bat, or any part of his person, except his hands:—“Hit the ball twice.”
Either batsman is out:
28. If in running, or at any other time, while the ball is in play he be out of his ground, and his wicket be struck down by the ball after touching any fieldsman, or by the hand or arm, with ball in hand, or any fieldsman:—“Run out.”
29. Or, if he touch with his hands or take up the ball while in play, unless at the request of the opposite side:—“Handled the ball.”
30. Or if he willfully obstruct any fieldsman:—“Obstructing the field.”
31. If the batsmen have crossed each other, he that runs for the wicket which is put down is out; if they have not crossed, he that has left the wicket which is put down is out.
32. The striker being caught no run shall be scored. A batsman being run out, that run which was being attempted shall not be scored.
33. A batsman being out from any cause, the ball shall be “dead.”
34. If a ball in play cannot be found or recovered, any fieldsman may call “Lost Ball,” when the ball shall be “dead:” six runs shall be added to the score, but if more than six runs have been run before “lost ball” has been called, as many runs as have been run shall be scored.
35. After the ball shall have been finally settled in the wicket-keeper’s or bowler’s hand it shall be “dead;” but when the bowler is about to deliver the ball, if the batsman at his wicket be out of his ground before actual delivery, the said bowler may run him out; but if the bowler throw at that wicket and any run result it shall be scored “no ball.”
36. A batsman shall not retire from his wicket and return to it to complete his innings after another has been in without the consent of the opposite side.
37. A substitute shall be allowed to field or run between wickets for any player who may during the match be incapacitated from illness or injury, but for no other reason, except with the consent of the opposite side.
38. In all cases where a substitute shall be allowed, the consent of the opposite side shall be obtained as to the person to act as substitute and the place in the field which he shall take.
39. In case any substitute shall be allowed to run between wickets, the striker may be run out if either he or his substitute be out of his ground. If the striker be out of his ground while the ball is in play, that wicket which he has left may be put down and the striker given out, although the other batsman may have made good the ground at that end, and the striker and his substitute at the other end.
40. A batsman is liable to be out for any infringement of the laws by his substitute.
41. The fieldsman may stop the ball with any part of his person, but if he willfully stop it otherwise the ball shall be “dead,” and five runs added to the score. Whatever runs may have been made five only shall be added.
42. The wicket-keeper shall stand behind the wicket. If he shall take the ball for the purpose of stumping before it has passed the wicket, or if he shall incommode the striker by any noise, or motion, or if any part of his person be over or before the wicket, the striker shall not be out, excepting under Laws 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30.
43. The umpires are the sole judges of fair or unfair play, of the fitness of the ground, the weather, and the light for play; all disputes shall be determined by them, and if they disagree the actual state of things shall continue.
44. They shall pitch ther wickets, arrange boundaries where necessary, and the allowances to be made for them, and change ends after each side has had one innings.
45. They shall allow two minutes for each striker to come in and ten minutes between each innings. When they shall call “Play,” the side refusing to play shall lose the match.
46. They shall not order a batsman out unless appealed to by the other side.
47. The umpire at the bowler’s wicket shall be appealed to before the other umpire in all cases except in those of stumping, hit the wicket, run out at the striker’s wicket, or arising under Law 42, but in any case in which an umpire is unable to give a decision he shall appeal to the other umpire, whose decision shall be final.
48 A. If the umpire at the bowler’s end be not satisfied of the absolute fairness of the delivery of any ball, he shall call “No ball.”
48 B. The umpire shall take especial care to call “No ball” instantly upon delivery, “Wide ball” as soon as it shall have passed the striker.
49. If either batsman run a short run, the umpire shall call “One short,” and the run shall not be scored.
50. After the umpire has called “Over” the ball is “dead” but an appeal may be made as to whether either batsman is out, such appeal, however, shall not be made after the delivery of the next ball, nor after any cessation of play.
51. No umpire shall be allowed to bet.
52. No umpire shall be changed during a match unless with the consent of both sides, except in case of violation of Law 51, then either side may dismiss him.
53. The side which goes in second shall follow their innings if they have scored eighty runs less than the opposite side.
54. On the last day of a match, and in a one-day match at any time, the in-side shall be empowered to declare their innings at an end.
ONE-DAY MATCHES.
1. The side which goes in second shall follow their innings if they have scored sixty runs less than the opposite side.
2. The match, unless played out, shall be decided by the first innings.
3. Prior to the commencement of a match it may be agreed that the over consist of 5 or 6 balls.