Dinner refers to an interval taken during a full day of play on a day/night test. Since the game of cricket is played over a number of hours or days, intervals are necessary. In fact, the number of hours that takes the sport to be played over is considered as one of the longest playing time amongst other sports. Because of this scenario, cricket has special rules regarding intervals for lunch, dinner, tea, and drinks.
Rules for Dinner
Intervals are not granted without a set of rules. There are only a few intervals during the cricket game that is allowed. Intervals between innings are allotted with 10 minutes only. Intervals for tea and drinks last for 20 minutes. Intervals during test cricket or during the day/night test matches, dinner lasts for 40 minutes. Before the tossing of the coin, that determines which side bats first, intervals for dinner or meals that include the time and duration are agreed by both teams.
Causes for Delays of Dinner
Often times, the common causes for delays during intervals, such as dinner is when a wicket falls shortly prior to the scheduled interval to be taken. Also, when nine wickets are already down and the agreed time for the interval is reached, the break may be delayed until the game reaches the end of the inning. The maximum delay that is allowable is 30 minutes. During the hot season, drink intervals are deemed important, however, it lasts no longer than 5 minutes only.
Hosting Dinner
Dinner is considered very popular amongst all the allowed intervals. This wonderful event brings out an enjoyable evening for the corporate sector, cricket players, and enthusiasts. The food usually consists of deliciously cooked meat, such as chicken and lamb with lots of vegetables, fruits, among others. Sometimes dinner has live music to entertain its guests and make the event livelier. It is the perfect get together to make the cricket community closer and the players to unwind after a long day at play. Although the allotted time is only limited to 40 minutes, it is enough for the players to relax before the continuation of the match the following day.
