With the advent of the television age, cricket commentary evolved significantly. The availability of visuals allowed viewers to see the game unfold in real-time, making it easier to grasp the nuances that were previously left to the imagination. Commentary had to adapt; there was no longer a need for elaborate descriptions of every movement on the field. Instead, there was a gradual shift toward analysis, technical breakdowns, insights into players' thought processes, and expert opinions. This transformation was further accelerated by the inclusion of ex-cricketers in the commentary box, adding firsthand expertise and experience to the discussions.

At one point, I felt the commentary had lost its excitement and had become a bit dull. But with the entry of new voices and fresh perspectives, it has found a renewed vibrancy. The range of languages in which cricket is now commentated has expanded dramatically; it’s almost impossible to keep count. While I’ve primarily listened to commentary in English, Hindi, and Tamil, each language brings its unique flavor, humor, and style to the game, adding different dimensions to the viewer’s experience. After all, there are no strict "Wisden" rules governing how commentary should be delivered, and this diversity only enriches the game.

As we move further into the age of high-definition visuals, there’s a growing tendency for viewers to focus more on the screen than on the commentary. Watching the game live at the stadium rarely involves listening to commentary, yet the excitement and understanding of the game are never diminished. The visuals speak for themselves, and the nuances are often clear without needing a running narrative.

Yet, from another perspective, the commentary industry has generated vast employment opportunities. Commentators, producers, broadcasters, camera crews, advertisers, and countless others connected to the technical and commercial sides of broadcasting are all part of this ecosystem. In this sense, the evolution of cricket commentary is a welcome development, not just for its entertainment value but also for its economic impact.

In the pre-TV era, and even during the early days of television, cricket as a sport moved at a brisker pace. There were no dramatic celebrations for every fifty, century, or wicket. The game flowed seamlessly; bowlers returned to their marks swiftly, and new batsmen walked to the crease without delay. It was not uncommon for teams to bowl over 120 overs in a single day, despite the shorter playing hours of five and a half hours, with even a day’s break in between. But as the modern era took hold, the pace of the game paradoxically slowed. Today, teams often struggle to bowl the minimum 90 overs in a six-hour day. The influence of television, advertising, and sponsorship deals may have contributed to these changes, though it’s hard to pinpoint exactly how.

For a brief period, drinks breaks became over-the-top spectacles, with elaborate vehicles ferrying drinks to the players—another indication of how the game’s presentation was evolving to suit TV audiences. Thankfully, these gimmicks have toned down, returning some simplicity to the sport.

There’s no denying the thrill of watching a live match at the stadium—the energy of the crowd, the noise, the snacks, the sheer atmosphere—but as age has crept up, I’ve found comfort in watching from home. A cozy chair, a warm cup of tea, and the ability to control the volume have their own appeal, making the game just as enjoyable, if not more so.

To be continued... 73- My Test with Cricket - Limited Days’ Exploits - Part 7