Cricket is not just a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of eleven players each but a sporting phenomena, which consumes the audience as the game proceeds. While there are various jerseys for ODIs and T20 matches, players sport only the white jersey for Test matches.
With this comes ‘Why white jersey for Test match in cricket?’ a question that everybody at some point wanted an answer for! So, here are the major reasons why cricketers wear white during Test matches:
- Cricket a gentlemen game: The colour white being steeped in chivalry, as the line goes ‘Knight in white shining armor’ was apt for cricket as it was played by elite in Britain during 18th century. This was also true for ODI until changed from white to coloured after the WC 1992.
- Comfort – A summertime sports: Cricket was an English summer time sports and another reason why white was taken as right colour for playing in early days. However it is still continued owing to the comfort it provides.
- Distinguishing the ball: The player can easily sight the traditional red cricket ball that is used when compared to ODI and T20 where white ball is used as it is visible in the flood light.
- Availability: Cricket began during the 18th century and during those days, they had to use the materials that were readily available, so the choice of all white was purely practical.