Cricket, a sport known for its rich history and passionate following, has captivated fans worldwide for centuries. Like other ancient sports, determining its precise origins is challenging. This write-up aims to trace the birth of cricket, exploring its historical roots and the individual often referred to as the “father of cricket.”
We also examine the notable figures who hold this title in specific regions – India and Pakistan. So who is the father of cricket? William Gilbert Grace, an English cricketer, also known as WG Grace, is called the father of cricket. His impact on cricket led to its professionalization and laid the foundation for the modern game.
A contested title: Who is known as the father of cricket?
“Who is known as the father of cricket?” – has been a vital topic of discussion among cricket enthusiasts. While the contemporary players have their monikers, the name that stands out is – William Gilbert Grace, widely recognized as WG Grace.
Born on August 18, 1848, near Bristol, England, William Gilbert Grace hailed from a cricket-centric family. Both his brothers Edward and Fred represented England in Test cricket, making them the first trio of brothers to achieve such a feat. WG Grace’s cricket career spanned an astonishing 45 years, during which he played for various teams, including the England national team.
He was the first to surpass the 50,000 mark by accumulating 54,211 runs in First-Class cricket. Grace also excelled as a medium pacer, claiming 2,809 wickets. He remains the only cricketer to feature in the top 10 lists for runs and wickets in First-Class history. His innovative batting style and arsenal shots earned him the admiration of fellow players, with cricketer Maharaja Ranjitsinhji referring to him as “The Bible of batsmanship.”
WG Grace’s significance in the evolution of cricket cannot be overstated. In an era when cricket was predominantly a leisurely activity, he dedicated himself to the sport and paved the way for its professionalization. Despite playing only 22 Test matches, his impact on the game earned him the title of the father of cricket.
Why is he called the father of cricket?
Cricket enthusiasts often debate who should be considered the “father of cricket,”; but the true pioneer deserving of this title is W.G. Grace. Grace’s remarkable contribution to the sport earns him this honor. He dedicated an astonishing 44 seasons to first-class cricket, playing 870 matches at a time when the sport wasn’t taken seriously. Despite being 107 years since his demise, cricket enthusiasts still hold him in high regard due to his remarkable accomplishment of scoring 126 centuries and 254 half-centuries.
Grace was exceptional in all facets of the sport, displaying his talents as a bowler, fielder, and especially as a batsman. His technical innovations and profound influence on his peers cemented his lasting legacy. Described as a “very correct batsman,” he revolutionized batting techniques and is credited with inventing the modern approach to batsmanship. Grace’s stroke-making was masterful, and he often captained the teams he represented due to his tactical understanding and deep knowledge of the game.
Throughout his successful tenure, Grace established several milestones in cricket. He holds the record for playing the highest number of first-class games, appearing in 870 matches. Interestingly, his batting average 39.45 was about twice his bowling average 18.17. In 1876, he achieved an impressive feat by amassing 839 runs in merely eight days, including a century and two triple centuries. From 1868 to 1876, he accumulated 54 centuries in first-class matches and claimed the second-highest number of wickets in the 1870s with 1,174 successful dismissals.
Additionally, Grace was the first player to score 100 centuries and achieved the feat of taking 100 wickets in a season on nine separate occasions. His exceptional records and unwavering commitment to the sport solidify his status as the true father of cricket.
Also Read: The King of Cricket
Ranjitsinhji: The father of cricket in India
Kumar Shri Ranji Singh, popularly known as Ranjitsinhji (or Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji), holds the title – “father of Indian cricket.” He was born on September 10, 1872, to the Jadeja Rajput family in Sadodar – a village in Nawanagar, Kathiawar. Ranjitsinhji played an important role in developing and popularizing cricket in India. His contribution to the game was revolutionary and unique, making him a legendary figure in cricket history.
Ranjitsinhji, the father of cricket in India, had a unique batting style. He introduced new strokes to the game, such as the leg glance and the late cut, which added elegance and creativity to his gameplay. His ability to divert balls to the leg side changed the nature of batting, allowing players to exploit new areas of the field.
As a stylish batsman, he averaged over 56 in First-Class cricket, with a highest score of 285 not out. His Test debut for England showcased his talent, scoring 62 and 154 not out. Though controversial, his declaration as ‘India’ sparked debate. Ranji’s contributions to the game revolutionized cricket, inspiring generations of players. The Ranji Trophy, renamed after him, remains prestigious, denoting his honor.
Abdul Hafeez Kardar: The father figure of cricket in Pakistan
Abdul Hafeez Kardar, the father of cricket in Pakistan, was also the first captain of the Pakistan cricket team. He captained the Pakistan team in their First Test match conducted in 1952, laying the first step in the country’s cricket history. Even before Pakistan came into existence, Abdul Hafeez Kardar had a Test career – playing for India in 1946.
As a left-handed batsman, he was known for dancing down the track to smash the ball. Moreover, Kardar also excelled as a left-arm medium-paced bowler. Upon moving to Pakistan, he captained the team, leading them to victories against all Test-playing nations except South Africa. Kardar held influential positions as chairman of selectors and president of Pakistan’s Board of Control, modernizing the organization.
Kardar’s visionary ideas included neutral umpires and breaking the post-imperial dominance of the Lords. Despite his dictatorial outlook and a fallout with players, his legacy as an inspirational captain, visionary administrator, and cricket icon remains unparalleled in Pakistan’s cricket history.
Conclusion
The “father of cricket” title is attributed to William Gilbert Grace, whose impact on the sport professionalized and shaped it into what it is today. However, Ranjitsinhji is the father of cricket in India, while Abdul Hafeez Kardar holds this title in Pakistan. These individuals played great roles in popularizing cricket in their respective countries, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport’s history.
