Not cricket

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Meaning

Unfair, dishonourable or contrary to accepted standards of conduct. Usually a mild moral rebuke rather than a literal reference to sport. Regional use: United Kingdom and Commonwealth English.

Origin

The expression draws on cricket's cultivated ideal of fair play rather than on a single incident in a match. Figurative uses developed in British English in the 19th century as the sport became a cultural model for proper conduct.

Variants

  • That's not cricket
  • It isn't cricket

Usage Examples

  • Changing the deadline after everyone submitted is simply not cricket.
  • Reading your opponent's notes while she is away from the table is not cricket.

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