Sight Screens Inside the Boundary Rope in the 1992 Cricket World Cup Final

During the 1992 Cricket World Cup final between Pakistan and England, an unusual but strategic decision was made: sight screens were placed inside the boundary rope to enhance visibility for players and spectators. This practice was implemented to ensure that the highly contested match was played under optimal viewing conditions.

Enhancing Visibility for Players and Spectators

The 1992 World Cup final was not just any match; it was a high-stakes event where every detail mattered. To improve the clarity of the ball, sight screens were positioned closer to the pitch, making them effective in providing a clear view of the ball. These screens were crucial given the unique playing conditions and the stadium's layout. Visibility is a critical factor in cricket, and it can be affected by numerous variables, such as lighting, crowd color, and advertising. In this match, the use of sight screens was particularly important to mitigate these issues, ensuring that players could perform at their best without being hindered by visual distractions.

A Unique Setting: The Lack of Boundary Ropes

The ground's size and design were distinctive features of that era. In those days, ensuring prime visibility was not a primary concern. Additionally, many grounds had trees or no boundary ropes at all, leading to an irregular playing field. For instance, at some venues, the boundary was not marked by a designated rope but instead by a fence. In such cases, if a fielder leaned on the fence and caught a ball in the crowd, it was considered a legal catch, and the batsman would be out. This system made for an interesting and sometimes unpredictable game.

The Role of Sight Screens

The sight screens, which were within the boundary ropes, played a crucial role in the 1992 final. They were not just a visual aid for players and spectators but also a part of the scoring system. If the ball hit the screen without bouncing, the batting team would get six runs. If the ball bounced and hit the screen or rolled under it, or if it was deflected off the screen by a fielder, the batting team would get four runs. This unique scoring system added an element of strategy and opportunity to the game, making it more entertaining for fans.

Evolution of Cricket

Since the 1992 World Cup, cricket has undergone significant changes. In the last 15 to 20 years, the sport has become much more batsman-friendly. Bats have become thicker, pitches have become flatter, and boundaries have been moved closer to wickets. These changes aim to increase the number of sixes and fours, enabling teams to score more runs. The shift from this old system to the current one has been a gradual process, driven by technological advancements and the need for a more dynamic and exciting game.

Some enthusiasts, like myself, prefer the older system from the 25 to 30 years ago. This system made for better cricket that was more fun to watch and often led to more evenly contested matches. The simplicity and the unpredictability of the older boundaries and scoring systems contributed to the thrill and excitement of the game. While modern cricket has its advantages, many fans argue that the past had something special and unique that deserves to be remembered and appreciated.

In conclusion, the sight screens placed inside the boundary rope during the 1992 World Cup final were a strategic move to enhance the viewing experience for all involved. This practice, while somewhat unusual, was crucial in ensuring that players could perform at their best. As cricket has evolved, these early practices have given way to more modern technologies and rules, but they will always hold a place in the history of the game.