“Impact of Short-Format Cricket on Skill Acquisition, Physical Fitness, and Mental Resilience in Young Cricketers”

Short-format cricket, such as T20 and The Hundred, has redefined the game’s dynamics, prioritizing aggressive batting, tactical adaptability, and high-pressure performance. This study investigates the impact of these formats on young cricketers (ages 14–19), focusing on physical fitness, skill development, psychological effects, and injury risks. The results revealed that short-format cricket enhances players’ sprint speed (6.5 m/s in Group A vs. 6.0 m/s in Group B) and agility (5.2 sec in Group A vs. 5.5 sec in Group B) while compromising endurance (20 min in Group A vs. 30 min in Group B). Skill development outcomes indicated significant improvement in power-hitting and bowling variations in Group A, whereas Group B excelled in consistency and patience. Psychological analysis highlighted higher stress levels in short-format players but better decision-making in high-pressure scenarios. Injury analysis showed that Group A faced more muscle strains and joint injuries compared to Group B. These findings emphasize that while short-format cricket offers unique skill enhancement opportunities, it also introduces risks such as decreased endurance, increased injury prevalence, and potential erosion of traditional techniques. Recommendations include implementing balanced training regimens and mental health support to ensure the holistic development of young players.