Cricket is a global sport with an estimated 2.5 billion fans worldwide, making it the second most popular sport after soccer. Where is cricket played in the world? It originated in England, but today, it’s passionately followed across India and Africa.
You’re probably curious, so let’s take you through the popular cricket countries we know. Number 7 on this list will most likely surprise you.
Where Is Cricket Played In The World? In These Places
The International Cricket Council (ICC) governs cricket globally, comprising 12 Full Members and 96 Associate Members, totaling 108 member countries. Here’s a list of the top 10 cricket-playing countries based on a combination of fan base, international success, and cultural significance:
1. India
Cricket is more than a sport in India; it’s a national obsession. The country boasts a massive fan base, and its national team has achieved significant success, including multiple World Cup victories.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most lucrative and popular cricket leagues globally. India has won multiple ICC trophies, including the World Cup in 1983 and 2011 and the T20 World Cup in 2007. Life seems to slow down in India on cricket match days as the country tunes in to watch their heroes in action.
2. Australia
Australia and cricket go hand in hand, especially during the summer. The Aussies have built a fearsome cricketing legacy, winning more World Cups than any other nation and consistently staying at the top across all formats.
Powerful cricket stars like Steve Smith and Pat Cummins come from Australia. Cricket here is known for its fierce competitiveness. Australia regularly hosts domestic tournaments like the Big Bash League, adding flair to the local cricket scene.
3. England
And this right here is the birthplace of cricket. The now popular sport was developed in England centuries ago, and it remains a deep part of English society.
Today, England is a modern cricketing powerhouse, winning the ODI World Cup in 2019 and the T20 World Cup in 2022. With elegant stadiums like Lord’s, often called the “Home of Cricket,” and a strong grassroots presence, England balances tradition and evolution better than most.
4. Pakistan
Pakistan is another country where cricket is popular. They won the 1992 World Cup under the leadership of Imran Khan and later lifted the T20 World Cup trophy in 2009.
In Pakistan, it’s common to see children swinging bats and bowling with whatever equipment they can get their hands on. The country has produced many world-class fast bowlers and unpredictable match-winners.
5. South Africa
South Africa has been a strong cricketing nation since its re-admission to international cricket in the early 1990s, after years of sporting isolation.
Though they haven’t yet secured a World Cup title, South Africa has produced some of the most iconic players in cricket history, including AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, and Dale Steyn. South Africa also has a national baseball team and has participated in international tournaments like the World Baseball Classic.
6. New Zealand
New Zealand might be more popular for rugby, but cricket has quietly carved out a loyal following nationwide. The national team, known as the Black Caps, is admired worldwide for its sportsmanship, strategy, and cool-headedness under pressure.
They’ve played in two consecutive World Cup finals (2015 and 2019) and were crowned champions of the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.
7. Nigeria
We know this might come as a shock, but yes, Nigeria does play cricket. It was introduced during British colonial rule and is still played in schools and clubs across cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Benin City.
The Nigeria Cricket Federation has ramped up development programs recently, and the country even qualified for the U-19 Cricket World Cup in 2020. However, cricket in Nigeria is quite far from mainstream compared to other countries.
8. West Indies
Cricket in the West Indies is unique in that it represents several Caribbean nations, including Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad & Tobago.
The West Indies were untouchable during the 1970s and 80s, dominating world cricket with raw talent and unmatched swagger. Even though their form has dipped in recent years, their contribution to cricket history is undeniable.
9. Sri Lanka
Cricket is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture, uniting people across ethnic and social divides. The island nation’s defining cricketing moment came in 1996 when they surprised the world by winning the ODI World Cup.
That victory turned players like Arjuna Ranatunga and Sanath Jayasuriya into national icons. Since then, Sri Lanka has remained a formidable team, especially on home soil.
10. Bangladesh
Cricket is a popular sport in Bangladesh. Their team, the Tigers, has made major strides over the past two decades, evolving from underdogs to a team that can challenge and beat the best.
Their rise has been marked by key victories against India, South Africa, and Australia in global tournaments. Stadiums in Dhaka and Chittagong regularly host sold-out matches, while the Bangladesh Premier League provides a local platform for stars and rising talent.
Conclusion
Cricket keeps expanding as a global sport. Although it hasn’t met up with soccer’s popularity, this second-most popular sport has crossed many borders. With more countries investing in the sport and major events like the ICC World Cup and upcoming Olympic appearances, the global cricket map will only get bigger.
