Ramazan cricket a great social exercise

The game of cricket has always enjoyed great popularity among the masses, especially the younger generation. Over the decades, Pakistan has produced numerous legendary players and despite inadequate cricket infrastructure and resources at the domestic level, the Pakistan youngsters proved to be formidable contender, showing superb talents and commitment to excel.
On community level, cricket has been a source of inspiration and healthy entertainment that nurtures relations between the various segments of society, as it induces teamwork and coordination, while supporting community building efforts.
Over the years, the hot weather conditions in summer have given rise to night-cricket activities across the country, whereby young enthusiasts are seen participating regularly in matches held after dusk, under artificial lights.
To capitalize on this fervent participation and popularity, the corporate sector, media enterprises and celebrities also come forth to nurture healthy activities, that bring the community together to enjoy colorful night cricket tournaments. The holy month of Ramazan adds vigour to night-cricketing as the streets and grounds are lit up at night for this cheerful retreat, following each day of fasting and somber virtuous deeds.
We often see exciting night tournaments, featuring T20 and limited-overs matches, being held across all major cities and towns of Pakistan. Participants from all walks of life including, students, TV stars, former cricketers, famous personalities, professionals, bankers and media partners, gracing these events to add to the glitz to these contests. Many of these tournaments have gained tremendous popularity and receive heavy sponsorships from the corporate sector and are also covered by electronic media.
During the holy month of Ramazan, youngsters often indulge in night cricket after Tarawi and stay awake till Sehri. This shows the passion and love of Pakistani youth for cricket. The specialty of these tournaments is that they use specific rules and regulation, for instance, they reduce the number of balls per over from 6 to 4 and playing stroke in any particular side could be restricted to make the game more interesting.
Unlike in the past, Chairman, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Muhammad Zaka Ashraf and his team have been actively involved in initiatives to promote domestic cricket. In order to be competitive at the international stage, a country must have a very strong structure of domestic cricket and this is why Pakistani officials continue to stress on the importance of domestic cricket. In conclusion, night cricket has proved to be a healthy entertainment for our nation, and every citizen should play his role in promoting this great social exercise particularly the corporate sector.