The How To Be British Collection Two

8 Cricket (p. 10)

Cricket is not merely a sport, but part of the English soul, and visitors should treat it with the quiet respect accorded to the rites of an unfamiliar religion. Although the general aim of the batting side is to score runs and the bowling side to take wickets, the main priority for all is to enjoy a pleasant afternoon in the fresh air and work up an appetite for tea.

It should be treated not so much as a contest, but as a shared activity, like building a bonfire or putting up a tent (activities also likely to be interrupted by rain). Cricket is a common topic of earnest conversation in pubs and places of work, particularly in the summer. Even if you never play or watch a match it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with some basic cricketing terms in order not to be socially and culturally disadvantaged. For example, Perkins is out — caught in the slips off the bowling of Glover for 9. Or, What a splendid cover drive by Wilkins!
Expressions to learn
He can’t complain, he’s had a good innings.

Avoid saying:
I’m bored. Can we go home?