Cricket is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of eleven players on a field at the centre of which is a 22-yard (20-metre) pitch with a wicket at each end, each comprising two bails balanced on three stumps. ... The earliest reference to cricket is in South East England in the mid-16th century. As well as physical health benefits, cricket can also bring other benefits and opportunities such as: Team skills. Social skills such as cooperation, communication and learning how to cope with winning and losing. Social interaction – it's a great way to meet new people and make new friends.