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.
Research Sources
References used to check this entry’s meaning, history, or documented forms.
Variants
- It isn't cricket
- That's not 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.