New Delhi: In cricket, the helicopter shot is the act of striking the ball with a wristy flick, with the bottom hand as the dominant force. In dating, it is that “big move you make when you realise they are the one for you!” – just one of the many terms Bumble’s dating dictionary came up with because in India, cricket is like no less than a religion.
As a household topic in India, the sport is also a dominant force in dating, and now there is data to prove it.
As per a new report by Bumble, 78 per cent of Indians surveyed believe cricket matches make for great dates, while 70 per cent see cricket matches as a helpful parameter to learn about someone’s interest and passion in the sport. Whereas, 63 per cent believe they get to know someone’s personality by how they react to a win or a loss, among others.
Cricket as a deal-breaker
The report outlines that cricket is a deal-breaker for many. According to the survey, 5 per cent of Indians actively seek a romantic partner who enjoys sports before deciding whether to explore a connection with them.
That is not all.
The report added that 44 per cent of those in a dating scenario where one liked cricket and the other didn’t said the latter compromised and they watched it together. While 41 per cent said they spent a lot of time apart.
Further, 32 per cent pointed out that they grew to love it, and for nearly 1 in 5 people who’ve been in a dating situation where one liked cricket and the other didn’t, it ended their relationship.
Mansplaining their way into dating
Cricket, like many other sports, is often male-dominated. Women often feel left out or even underestimated in their knowledge of sports. Bumble’s new study highlights this.
The report revealed that 71 per cent of women admit to ‘finding themselves being mansplained during social conversations (parties, gatherings, events, etc) about cricket.’
What is a welcome change is that 89 per cent of respondents claimed they are excited to watch Indian women’s cricket in 2023.
“Mansplaining in sports reflects on everyday sexism and gender biases and is often overlooked. No matter the intention behind it, it is harmful. While you enjoy the matches, don’t offer to explain any rule or strategy unless asked. If you’re asked then explain briefly, free of stereotypes and jibes. It’s important to set clear boundaries to forge healthy and equitable relationships,” Samarpita Samaddar, India Communications Director, Bumble was quoted in the report.
Like Bumble’s dictionary will tell one – ‘hit a boundary.’
Also read: 32% Gen Zs think Indian women still behind men in terms of gender equality, finds Bumble survey