What are English stumps and its offshoots
In cricket, stumps are three vertical posts made of wood, usually around 28 inches (71 cm) in height, that are placed at each end of the pitch. The stumps are topped with two wooden bails that sit in grooves on top of the stumps.
English stumps generally refer to the style of stumps used in cricket matches played in England and its former colonies. They are made of either ash or willow wood, which are dense and durable woods that can withstand the impact of the ball. English stumps are known for their quality and are often used in international cricket matches.
Offshoots of stumps are modifications or variations made to the standard stumps to suit specific requirements or conditions. Some examples of offshoots include:
1. Spring-loaded Stumps: These stumps have a mechanism that allows the bails to be dislodged momentarily upon impact but quickly return to their original position without falling off. This is often used in limited-overs cricket to determine run-outs more accurately.
2. LED Stumps: These stumps have LED lights embedded in them, which light up when the bails are dislodged. This technology is primarily used in day-night matches or matches played under floodlights for better visibility.
3. Colored Stumps: In certain limited-overs formats or promotional matches, stumps with colored or painted tops may be used to add visual appeal to the game. These stumps are usually not made of wood but are made of a lightweight material to ensure player safety.
While these offshoots enhance the spectacle of the game, the traditional English stumps remain the standard choice for professional cricket matches around the world.