Why do Cricketers Wear Whites in Test Matches?

Test cricket is the oldest and most traditional format of the gentleman’s game. The Test format has been in existence for about 150 years, but there’s one thing that’s still constant.

What’s that? Cricketers wearing all whites while playing a Test match.

Have you ever wondered why the game prefers white clothing for Tests?

Well, let’s understand why cricketers wear whites in Test matches.

1. White Helps Beat the Heat

Back in the day, cricket was a summer sport. And playing a Test match involved being on the field for 7-8 hours for 5-6 consecutive days.

Thus, playing under a harsh sun would take a toll on cricketer’s bodies, possibly resulting in dehydration or sunstroke.

In the initial years, there was no set standard of clothing, with players striding out in shorts, jackets, and trousers of any colour. But with time, the white-coloured clothing became more prevalent in Tests due to its scientific significance. 

The white colour is best suited to reflect sunlight and heat, which makes playing under the sun a bit comfortable for the players.

2. Better Visibility

Test matches are played with a red ball or a pink ball (for day-night Tests). And the white colour served well to spot the ball clearly on the field for everyone, including players and spectators.

With cricketers wearing white clothing, the red and pink balls can be easily located. And that’s also the reason behind placing white-coloured sight screens on both bowling ends.

3. Traditional Aspect

During the early years, cricket was played among the elites. Wearing whites gave them a royal feeling, making it a gentleman’s sport.

Further down the line, as players from every class took up the sport, white emerged as an ideal colour to bring equality among all cricketers.

The longest format still continues to honour the traditional aspect. And it’s highly unlikely the white-coloured clothing will be done away with in Test cricket.

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