Losing the Sport You Invented - The English Tale

The sports of cricket had its start in England. Although in popularity, football clearly dominates cricket. However, there is a certain prestige associated with cricket in England. Cricket is being played in England since the 16^th century It is also the national sport of the country. 

Given the rich history of between England and cricket and the fact that it was literally Englishmen who invented the sport; you would expect that their cricket team would have won a lot of accolades and bagged the world cup; the most important cricket event which happens after every 4 years. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Australia holds the record as the team who has won the most number of world cups. 

Why hasn't England won any world cup so far? Is it bad luck or is it their incompetency? From 1975 till now, England has been in the finals three times but lost each time. For the first 3 years, the world cup was held in England but still, they couldn't capitalize on the home ground advantage. The first decade of cricket was dominated by the West Windies fast bowlers who tormented the other teams with their extremely fast and aggressive bowling style. But even after the end of the West Indian bowlers' reign of terror, England still wasn't able to secure a world cup.

A major criticism against the team is that their style of play reflects that of an older time. Times have changed. The world of cricket has become more fast and exciting. The conservative style of playing had long become redundant. All the major teams evolved their play with time. Becoming more and more aggressive and flashier. The "Gentlemen's Game" introduced by the British has lost all its characteristics but the players still play by the same old rules.

In recent times, the English team is changing their tactics and adjusting themselves with the trends of the modern cricket world. 

Let's see how well they will fare in 2019 Cricket World Cup.