Term Hindi: तकती
Information on the Term ‘Pad’ in Cricket
In cricket, a ‘pad’ is part of the protective gear used by batsmen and wicketkeepers. It serves as a shield for their legs against potential impact from the fast-moving ball. This article elaborates extensively on the term ‘pad’ in more detail, discussing its purpose, usage, types and key features.
Purpose of Pads in Cricket
The principal purpose of using pads in cricket is to ensure player safety. They play a crucial role in protecting cricketers from severe injuries that could be inflicted by rapid deliveries or unexpected deflections during gameplay. Besides providing essential physical protection, pads also contribute psychologically to boost confidence among players serving at high-speed conditions; knowing they are protected allows them concentrate better on their game.
Usage of Pads in Cricket
Both batting and wicket-keeping require players to don pads. A pair comprises two separate guards: one for each leg. Typically worn over clothes but under trousers (cricket whites), these items cushion thighs, knees, shins, plus top part of feet via specially designed flap extensions.
- Batsman’s Pad: When it comes to batting, every player wears pads while facing deliveries irrespective of pace/spin distinction.
- Wicketkeeper’s Pad: The wicketkeeper also puts on similar barriers however ones specifically customized for his position’s needs.
Different Types of Pads Available
In general-based classification depending upon build quality/price range, three main types exist:
- Club Level Pad : These are basic level options recommended typically for amateur or club level cricketers.
- Professional Pad : For those playing at an advanced grade, top-quality professional pads are advisable. They offer better impact absorption and comfort thanks to high-end materials/clasps employed in their construction.
- Test Level Pad : A step higher still, there’re also test level additives available suitable for elite/career athletes exposed to extreme speeds during play frequently prolonged over several days’ duration as is case with multi-day cricket tests.
Main Features of a Cricket Pad
- Material: Pads largely consist of lightweight foam encased by strong synthetic fabric which can effectively absorb shock and resist wear/tear thanks to its robustness.
- Construction: They feature strategically placed buttons/studs allowing compaction yet ensuring security especially while running between wickets. Also included typically: adjustable straps making them snuggly fit any leg size perfectly.
- Variety: These come in various sizes catering to age group differences (juniors/seniors), left-hand/right hand distinction aside from being gender-neutral generally speaking. Colours too might vary although white remains classic favourite given its overall visibility associated ease cleaning/maintenance benefits particularly on grass pitches.
In conclusion, the term ‘pad’ in cricket signifies a key element of player’s safety gear whose contribution extends beyond mere physical protection towards enhancing one’s performance eventually through psychological peace assured protection brings leave alone individual customization preferences they cater admirably well today satisfying wideranging requirements respecting user comfort/affordability balancing needs appropriately likewise. Crafted innovatively incorporating inputs from players themselves, these products have evolved hugely since inception espousing technology advances benefitting current generation greatly compared yesteryears particularly in terms safety, build quality even eco-friendliness regard.
