I observe adult males dressed in pajamas hit balls with sticks, and then I write about it. This is my profession and how I make a living to afford food and shelter. While some people are experts in various fields like cardiology, architecture, cooking, or automobile repair, my expertise lies solely in watching grown men hit balls with sticks while wearing pajamas. The world may not require baseball writers, but I am grateful that there is a demand for them.
However, as a baseball writer, I find it challenging to understand cricket. Despite my expertise in baseball, comprehending cricket feels like a whole different territory. It’s like a chef being proficient in cooking with pans but not understanding how to use pots. The question remains, why are baseball and cricket so different, and why can’t I grasp the latter sport?
With the recent surprising victory of the United States against Pakistan in cricket, it’s the perfect time to delve into this version of pajama stickball. That’s why I reached out to Richard Sutcliffe from The Athletic, who is a cricket enthusiast when he’s not covering Wrexham and Sheffield United, to help answer some of my questions. I’ve gained valuable insights, and hopefully, you will too.
Grant Brisbee: During the summer of 2001, while I was unemployed, I spent my time playing video games, particularly International Cricket on the NES, to learn the rules of cricket. Despite my efforts, I was unsuccessful. So here I am, seeking your guidance.
Richard Sutcliffe: I can relate to those times. I recall playing a Formula One game on a Spectrum 48K, even though I had no idea about the rules. Cricket can indeed be confusing, even with hours of playing International Cricket as you did, Grant. What did you manage to grasp?
Brisbee: Very little, to be honest. I practically learned nothing at all.
Let’s address the most confusing aspect for me, which is the running between the wickets. Who are these runners? Why do they run back and forth between the sticks? Is there a way to prevent it? I recently read about “sticky wickets” and got the impression that these runners carry the sticks back and forth. Is this true?
It seems like we should start with the concept of runners and the reasons behind it.
