Day/night cricket, also known as floodlit cricket, refers to a cricket match played either entirely or partially under floodlights in the evening.

Floodlights are favored in cricket because they provide broad and thorough illumination across the pitch, which is essential for ensuring optimal visibility during matches and training sessions, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions.

Believe it or not, cricket under lights wasn't always a mainstream affair. It started with "rebel" matches, unsanctioned by the official cricket authorities. But the idea was too good to ignore. In 1979, the first official day/night One Day International (ODI) was played in Australia, forever changing the game. Now, floodlit cricket is a global phenomenon, lighting up stadiums for ODIs, Twenty20 matches, and even Test matches!

Ever wondered about those towering structures that illuminate the pitch? They're not just any old lights! Stadiums use different types of floodlights, each with its own quirks:

The Pillar Powerhouse: The classic design, featuring clusters of lights high atop tall pillars. You'll see these at iconic grounds like Lord's and the Wankhede Stadium.

The Low-Rider: Unique to Mohali Stadium in India, these shorter pillars avoid interfering with nearby air traffic!

The Ring of Fire: Circular arrangements that minimize shadows but can test a fielder's eyesight when catching a high ball!

The LED Revolution: Energy-efficient and super bright, these lights are quickly becoming the new standard.

Why is floodlit cricket so popular? It extends playing hours, giving us more action. They provide crystal-clear visibility for players and fans, and boost broadcast quality. The atmosphere is electric, often enhancing player energy and performance.

Floodlights have revolutionized cricket, making it more accessible and exciting. They've created iconic moments and brought the game to new audiences.