CRICKET FOR LADIES.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume V, Issue 49, 6 December 1890, Page 15

CRICKET FOR LADIES.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —If this subject is not closed please allow me space for a few words. There can be no doubt that the game of cricket, equally with lawn tennis, rounders, croquet, ami other out door games, is most beneficial to al! ladies, both young and middle-aged, whose health permits them to take exercise of this kind. Setting aside the fact that such games steady and strengthen the nerves, and give far more exercise than a ‘ walk,’ it must also be borne in mind that they cannot be well played or enjoyed at all bv those who wear tightly-laced corsets, and therefore those’ ladies who join in them successfully are sure to enjoy the improved health which follows the wearing of rationally-fitting (not necessarily untidy or sloppy) garments. Many a ‘mother of many’ would find her health and spirits, and looks too, greatly improved by an occasional quiet game of cricket with her girls, wearing a skiit quite clear of the ground and a smart flannel or silk blouse, with either very loose stays or none at all; and if the boys are home from school, join in the game and have a ‘ family match.’ So much the better for all. For women who play cricket in public, or expose themselves to the criticisms of a mob, who pay sixpence to look at them, no condemnation can be too strong. Cricket maybe played with great gain by girls and women for their private recreation, but directly they seriously pit themselves against men, in an avowedly masculine game, they put themselves at a disadvantage, and bring upon themselves ■well-deserved ridicule and contempt. Salome.