In this episode of "The Backpass Explains," the hosts delve into the fascinating topic of the Rise of Franchise Cricket. They explore the historical origins of cricket, its spread to different countries, and the importance of representative cricket. The episode also covers the evolution of cricket into a global sport and its shift towards commercialization and money-making.

The episode begins with Shivank providing insights into the History of International Cricket, tracing its journey from its introduction in the English colonies in the 17th century to its expansion in the 18th and 19th centuries across various parts of the world. Kevin then highlights the significance of Representative Cricket and its role in shaping the sport.

The hosts discuss the anti-establishment nature of International Cricket, focusing on iconic rivalries such as the Ashes and India vs. England. They explore how cricket's popularity grew in different regions due to colonization and the efforts of the East India Company mariners. The sport's establishment in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa is also highlighted.

Moving on, Gurpreet leads the conversation on the New Age of Cricket, where the focus shifted from nationalism to commercialization and making money. They explore the advent of multiple formats of cricket and how the same players now participate in all formats. The hosts touch on the revolutionary World Series Cricket, which arose due to money disputes between top cricketers and the Australian Cricket Board in 1977. This league, headed by Kerry Packer, introduced higher player salaries and innovations like colored kits and night games.

The hosts then shed light on the current state of cricket in Australia and New Zealand, where overall registrations have decreased significantly. However, they note a positive trend in the rising number of female registrations, showcasing the growth of women's cricket and efforts to develop the game.

Lastly, the hosts offer their opinions on Test Cricket as a franchise, exploring the significance of domestic tournaments like County, Ranji Trophy, and Sheffield Shield.

Join "The Backpass Explains" as they provide a comprehensive analysis of the Rise of Franchise Cricket, covering its historical roots, commercial evolution, and the state of the game in contemporary times.