Cricket, Migration and Diasporic Communities

This insightful book explores the relationship between cricket and diasporic communities, revealing how sport shapes identity and transnational ties.

Since the onset of global migration, sport has become an essential aspect of how we understand and experience diaspora. In Cricket, Migration and Diasporic Communities, the authors explore how sport, particularly cricket, serves as a significant tool for diasporic communities to forge transnational connections. This exploration reveals how sport not only facilitates bonding among diverse groups but also plays a crucial role in shaping their ethnic and racial identities. Despite the rich potential of this relationship, the application of diaspora theories to sports discourse remains limited.

The book delves into the complexities of cricket as a cultural phenomenon, highlighting the paradox between its unifying potential and the strict boundaries it imposes on belonging. W.G. Grace’s assertion that cricket promotes civilization is juxtaposed with the reality of exclusion that exists within the sport. C.L.R. James’ metaphor of looking ‘beyond the boundary’ serves as a guiding principle, emphasizing the need to consider the broader social and political landscapes that influence the game and its players. This perspective is crucial for understanding cricket's significance in a global context.

Contributions within this volume examine various dimensions of power, representation, and inequality as they manifest in cricket. Each chapter offers unique insights into how these themes are expressed through the sport, making Cricket, Migration and Diasporic Communities a vital resource for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, culture, and identity.