British endowed sub-continent with new facades, and more than six decades later Cricket has proved to be enduring and eminent trait of this region today. Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, all were once part of British India and "The Gentleman's Game" found an unprecedented fan following and power source from these countries.
From Pakistan's viewpoint, Cricket is the most famous, well supported and followed game for people from all age and genders regardless of location, creed and language. Probably due to this aficionado level, cricket here has an excellent history, well-established administration structure and world-class support facilities.
Initially, Cricket was just an elite's sport. Landlords would gather to play an exhibition match as a hobby. It was natural that players belonging to such class would represent Pakistan in its debut Test match against India in 1952. For several ensuing decades, Cricket remained a rich man's sport until players belonging to lower class families begin to participate at international level. In addition to, a new One-Day cricket format proved to be very successful internationally. Staging of ODI (One-Day International) World Cup in 1988 in sub-continent sparked an interest in this game that continues today. Subsequent years saw an increase in public fascination as Pakistan performed exceptionally in all aspects of the game.
The fame, money and glamour attracted youngsters who in essence became a nursery of stars for the country. It is not uncommon for cricket players to be treated like royalty. Public, politicians, media etc all bestow there affection and attention at them. A national player can earn well over millions with endorsements only!
It is a fact that such discretion could not have come without Pakistan cricket team's superlative performance. Since there historical win against England in 1954, Team Pakistan has well evolved into a competitive outfit.
o Champions in 1992 ODI World Cup
o Champions in 2009 Twenty20 World Cup
o Semi-Finalists in 2009 Champions Trophy
o Champions in 2000 Asia Cup
o Champions in ALL Australasia Cups
o Champions in 1998 Asian Test Championship
Furthermore, Players themselves hold several world records as well.
o Hanif Muhammad has the honour of being the first Asian cricketer to score a triple century in 1958.
o Saeed Anwar has the highest individual ODI score of 194 runs (Against India in 1997).
o Sarfaraz Nawaz invented Reverse Swing.
o Shoaib Akhtar holds the distinction of being the fastest bowler in history (100.2mph/161.2kph in 2004).
Above all are concrete proofs of Pakistan's achievements.
Pakistan's Women cricket team is also active on the international scene since 1997.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) oversees the cricket matches and administration through out the country. It is a member of ICC.
Cricket in Pakistan is not merely a game. It is means of entertainment, earnings, diplomacy, and supremacy on archrivals and above all a source of pride and honour for the country.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mir_Makhphi/439413
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