Darts or Cricket?

Darts fans in the Hollies stand

Fantasy Bob was interested to see that in these live-sport deprived days, there is one competitive sport that is surviving.  Darts. 

Players don't need to be in the same room - they can play against each other in the safety of their own abodes while streaming the match to dedicated fans.  A 32 night tournament featuring the best players in the world is in prospect.  It will lack the authentic beer-fuelled chant-filled atmosphere (sadly reminiscent of modern Test crowds).  Instead matches will become quiet and contemplative.  Will this commend it to the sporting audience most attracted by such qualities - the traditional cricket supporter?  For FB and his ilk, the quieter and more contemplative a cricket match is the better.

In the early days of lockdown, many cricketers on social media tried to demonstrate indoor versions of the game.  Sadly, none seems to provide the basis for a consistently engaging  tournament.  But then neither do the rules of the Hundred.  So cricket fans, who want a respite from the endless replays of matches long past, have few alternatives.

On the face of it there is little in common between darts and cricket - the bent arm throw is obligatory in one and an object for litigation in the other.  While T20 kits have approached absurdity in design and colour, they still lag a long way behind the traditional dart player's shirt.  Hair styles in cricket can also be objects of wonder.  Rory Burns' consistently appalling styling may cause ripples of incredulity, but it is as nothing compared to Peter Snakebite Wright and his multi-coloured Mohican.

Despite these differences, there is an exciting possibility.  There is a variation of darts called cricket. There is a batting and a bowling side. Just like like the real thing.  The bowling side takes wickets by hitting the bull, while the batting side tries to amass as many runs as possible by getting treble 20s.

Peter Snakebite Wright

The sports governing bodies need to get together.  There is a great opportunity for a new hybrid sport here. FB is sure this could take off.  After all, many off spinners have been throwing darts for years. They would be naturals.   Any team with Snakebite and Ben Stokes would be unbeatable.  Rory Burns could take his hair to the next level.

Some consideration of bowling actions might be necessary and there would have to be control of run ups.  But these are mere technicalities.  Ashes series are in prospect.

Test match cricket-darts - the sporting gift of lockdown.

Rory Burns - can take his hair to the next level