The Impact of Cricket's Absence in the World

Imagine a world without cricket. The absence of cricket would undeniably alter the sports landscape, especially in India. However, the impact would be more nuanced than one might initially think. While cricket might no longer reign as the paramount sport, the world would still have soccer, tennis, and badminton, among others, to keep the sports fandom engaged.

Global Sports Ecosystem

For us Indians, cricket is more than just a game; it's a way of life, a cultural tradition, and a unifying force that transcends religious and social boundaries. Despite its widespread popularity, cricket is primarily loved in India, with fewer than eight countries in the world showing a significant interest in the sport. Most of these are Asian nations, with the majority being India's neighbors. As a result, cricket's absence would not have a tremendous impact on the global sports landscape.

However, cricket's appeal extends beyond mere numbers. A match between India and Pakistan can cause intense debates and polarizing reactions, even involving political tensions. Without cricket, there would be a reduction in these perpetual debates, which might result in a more peaceful international sports environment. The cricket world would surely miss the fervor and passion of its fans.

Environmental Impact

The absence of cricket would bring significant environmental benefits. Cricket, particularly as played in the Indian Premier League (IPL), consumes a considerable amount of resources. For instance, IPL 2016 used 60,000 liters of water, which is enough to provide a city with a full flushing system for 300 days. This is a substantial amount of water that could be significantly reduced without cricket.

Moreover, the unequal distribution of income within the cricket industry would cease. Top stars like Virat Kohli earn astronomical amounts, while the per capita income in India was recorded to be INR 113,000 in 2017-2018. The amount of funds concentrated in the hands of cricket stars is a stark contrast to the average earnings of the Indian populace. Without cricket, we might redirect these funds towards more equitable activities, such as focusing on hockey, which has a more historical significance in India.

The Cricket Religion Phenomenon

Cricket in India is often referred to as a religion. It's deeply intertwined with the fabric of society, celebrated and worshipped in a manner reminiscent of religious fervor. For fans, cricket is not just a game; it's a shared passion, a sense of identity, and a cultural legacy. In countries like America, Russia, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Canada, Brazil, and Argentina, cricket isn't a beloved pastime. The true love for cricket is confined to England and its colonies.

As a diehard fan, I acknowledge the deep connection I have with cricket, yet I understand that the world has better things to do. Cricket is indeed a behemoth, but for most of the world, it remains a distant passion. This perspective isn't to diminish cricket's importance but to acknowledge that its global appeal is somewhat limited.

In conclusion, while the absence of cricket might lead to a less fervent regional identity in India and a more equitable distribution of resources, the international sports landscape would face fewer heated debates and conflicts. The world would undoubtedly miss the vibrant energy and passionate fans of cricket, but it would find new ways to bond and celebrate through other sports.