Anyone But England: Unveiling the Intricate Relationship Between Cricket, Race, and Class

Cricket, often deemed the "gentleman's game," has a deep-rooted connection with race and class dynamics in England. The sport, which gained popularity during the colonial era, is now lavished with national pride and prestige. However, behind the seemingly united front of supporting the English cricket team, there exists a significant subset of cricket enthusiasts who embody the phrase "Anyone But England."

The phrase "Anyone But England" encapsulates a sentiment prevalent amongst individuals who find themselves detached from the privileged background associated with English cricket. This disillusionment is not solely based on nationality or rivalry but has its roots in the socio-economic divides pervasive within cricket's cultural fabric.

Cricket, historically perceived as an elitist sport, often excluded individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds due to the inherent costs associated with playing the game. This led to the formation of cricketing cultures outside the mainstream, particularly among ethnic minority communities. These communities have formed their own teams and leagues, fostering a sense of camaraderie and providing an opportunity for those marginalized by class and race to express themselves through the sport they love.

Anyone but England: Cricket, Race and Class

by Evelyne Gauthier(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1152 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	366 pages
Hardcover	:	205 pages
Item Weight	:	11.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.66 x 8.5 inches

FREE

In recent times, the rise of professional leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL),the Caribbean Premier League (CPL),and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has further contributed to the diversification of cricket. These leagues not only provide a platform for players from different backgrounds but also garner significant support from fans worldwide, creating a sense of pride and belonging that transcends national borders.

The "Anyone But England" sentiment also finds its roots in the complex history of colonialism and the legacy of the British Empire. As former colonies gained independence, cricket became a prominent medium through which post-colonial nations sought to establish their identity and challenge the dominance of their former colonial masters.

Although the sentiment may seem divisive, it showcases the passion and emotional connection that individuals have towards the game of cricket. It highlights the need for more inclusive platforms within cricket that cater to diverse communities and challenge the existing power dynamics associated with English cricket.

As cricket continues to evolve and embrace diversity, it is essential to acknowledge the nuanced relationship between race, class, and the sport. Recognizing and addressing the barriers that hinder equal participation and support for all individuals can create a more equitable and inclusive cricketing landscape.

The phrase "Anyone But England" is not merely a call for rivalry; rather, it represents the discontent experienced by those who feel excluded or underrepresented within the traditional structures of English cricket. By unpacking the intricate relationship between cricket, race, and class, we can strive for a more inclusive and empowering future for the sport.

As we move forward, it is crucial to foster an environment that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, providing equal opportunities for participation and support. Only then can cricket truly become a sport that unites people, regardless of their race, class, or nationality.

Anyone but England: Cricket, Race and Class

by Evelyne Gauthier(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1152 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	366 pages
Hardcover	:	205 pages
Item Weight	:	11.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.5 x 0.66 x 8.5 inches

FREE

Anyone But England is a detailed exploration into the origins of cricket; the romance, cultural identity, hypocrisy, flaws of governance and glory of the game. Mike Marqusee, an American who fell in love with cricket when he moved to the UK in the 1970s, looks at the history of elitism and empire, and how race and class have always been issues in the game. Scrutinising the long saga of South Africa's exclusion from world cricket, Marqusee charts England's collusion with apartheid, and also details an eye-opening account of Pakistan's controversial 'ball-tampering' tour of England, which provoked intense debate amongst cricket fans about the role of both the media and racism in the modern game. Showing that supporting the game does not mean you need be blind to its flaws, Marqusee's passion and enthusiasm for cricket is threaded through every element of Anyone But England.

Winner of the Aberdare Literary Prize, awarded by the British Society of Sports History, 1994
Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award, 1994