Cricket is one of the most popular sports across the world, although up until now it has remained relatively low-key in the States, mainly due to the popularity of the likes of baseball. It’s a sport on the rise in the USA however, with Major League Cricket launching in 2023, so now could be the perfect time to get into the game. To start, like all sports, you should learn about the rules of cricket. Although seemingly a little complex at first, the premise of the game is simple – the batting side must score as many runs as possible before the bowling team gets them out. Sound familiar? Use the official ICC app – the organization that oversees cricket across the globe – for a good starting point on the history of cricket and how to get started. Cricket in America is already being played and there will be a team not far away from you to join if you’re interested in challenging yourself. It’s only going to get bigger.

The good news is that cricket doesn’t need to be especially expensive to get started. If you want to practice in your backyard, a cheap bat and second-hand ball will be enough to play a few shots and build up your technique and timing. If you decide to join a team, this is when you may need to start investing in more serious cricket equipment. Depending on where you would like to play in the team (bowler, opening batsman, wicketkeeper), different positions have their own kit requirements, but everyone needs a bat. Most cricketing injuries occur on players’ hands, so batsman cricket gloves are also a necessity. Some cricket clubs may have their own equipment they can lend to you as you get started, and as you go, you can build up your collection. Most teams play in cricket whites if playing a match – essentially a pair of white sports trousers and a white top. Luckily, you don’t have to do this all at once, especially if you’re interested in cricket, is purely a hobby. 

When it comes to the training side of things, cricket is a brilliant activity to help you stay fit, as well as improving your skills as a player. During a match, all 11 players must bat at some point, so practicing cricket shots is a must for improving in that department. Again, this is something that can be done in your backyard, or on the cricket pitch with your teammates' bowling practice deliveries at you. In terms of keeping fit, running is an essential part of the sport regardless of your position on the field. You may want to join a gym in order to work out, building essential muscle and cardio fitness, or it could simply be going for a jog now and then. Don’t forget that what you eat is vastly important too. Nutrition for sports training can make the world of difference in your performance on the field, especially in the longer format matches where you could be out there for two or more hours at a time. Cricket can be a brilliantly rewarding sport when we feel at our physical best, so putting in the effort certainly pays off.