The Rest Is History 129. Cricket
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Dec 9, 2021 
Jon Hotten, author of 'The Meaning of Cricket,' dives into the fascinating journey of cricket from its peasant origins to a global phenomenon. He highlights the sport's cultural significance, particularly its links to British identity and the Empire. The discussion also covers pivotal moments like the Ashes series and contrasts cricket's evolution with baseball in America. Hotten reflects on cricket's social fabric, touching on its amateur roots and the timeless appeal that keeps fans engaged across generations.
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Cricket's Mysterious Origins
- WG Grace believed cricket originated from coits.
- An Armenian professor claims Jesus played a cricket-like game based on an ancient gospel.
The 22-Yard Pitch
- Cricket's origins are difficult to pinpoint, with various claims and spellings from the past.
- A key aspect of modern cricket, the 22-yard pitch, comes from Thomas Gunter's land-measuring chain.
Cricket's Humble Beginnings
- Early cricket was primarily a rural, village game played by working-class people.
- Puritans frowned upon playing cricket, viewing it as a roguish activity.
