On Saturday, India inched closer to a semis berth in the T20 World Cup following their comprehensive 50-run victory against Bangladesh in a Super Eight contest. All-rounder Hardik Pandya smashed a 27-ball fifty as India posted 196 for 5 -- their highest score in what has been a low-scoring tournament so far -- at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Bangladesh were never really in the chase and managed 146 for 8 in reply, succumbing to their second Group 1 defeat to be on the brink of elimination. Read more on TOI
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Cricket, often referred to as the gentleman's game, has been a popular sport in India for decades. However, in recent years, a new form of the game has been gaining popularity - gully cricket. Gully cricket, as the name suggests, is played in the narrow lanes and alleys of cities and towns across the country. It is a more informal and casual version of the game, with makeshift pitches, improvised rules, and a lot of street-smart tactics. Unlike traditional cricket, gully cricket does not require a large field or expensive equipment. All you need is a bat, a ball, and a group of enthusiastic players. Matches are often played on dusty streets or empty plots of land, with buildings and cars serving as makeshift boundaries. What sets gully cricket apart from traditional cricket is the level of creativity and improvisation involved. Players often come up with unique rules and variations to make the game more exciting and challenging. For example, a batsman might be given out if he hits the ball onto a rooftop, or a bowler might be allowed to bowl underarm to make the game more competitive. Gully cricket is not just a game, but a way of life for many young Indians. It is a way for them to escape the confines of their homes and schools, to bond with friends and neighbors, and to showcase their skills and talent on the cricket field. In 2024, gully cricket is expected to reach new heights of popularity, with more and more young people taking up the sport and organizing tournaments and leagues in their neighborhoods. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, gully cricket matches are also being live-streamed and shared online, attracting a wider audience and giving players a chance to showcase their talent to the world. Gully cricket may not have the glamour and glitz of international cricket, but it has its own charm and appeal. It is a grassroots sport that brings communities together, fosters camaraderie and sportsmanship, and provides a platform for young talent to shine. So, if you ever find yourself walking down a narrow lane or alley in India and hear the sound of a cricket bat hitting a ball, don't be surprised - it's just a group of youngsters playing gully cricket, keeping alive the spirit of the game in their own unique way.