Remember the roar of the virtual crowd, the satisfying thwack of a perfectly timed cover drive, and the sheer joy of taking a wicket with a blistering yorker? For an entire generation of cricket fans, EA Sports Cricket 2007 isn’t just a game—it’s a cherished memory.
Even after nearly two decades, its gameplay holds a special place in our hearts. But returning to it can be tricky. The controls feel nostalgic yet complex, and mastering them is key to reliving the magic.
In this definitive guide, we go beyond a simple control list. We’ll provide pro tips, strategic insights, and a look back at what made this game a legend, helping you not just play, but dominate the digital pitch.
Why EA Sports Cricket 2007 Still Holds the Batting Crown
Before we dive into controls, let’s understand the legacy. Released in 2006, Cricket 2007 was a significant leap from its predecessors. It featured official licenses for major teams like Australia, England, and South Africa, more fluid animations, and a deeper career mode.
But its real genius was in its risk-vs-reward batting system and nuanced bowling controls. Unlike modern arcade-style games, Cricket 2007 required timing, patience, and strategy—it simulated the mental duel of real cricket. This depth is precisely why active communities still patch the game with updated rosters and tournaments, keeping it alive today.
Mastering the Controls: From Basic Shots to Advanced Plays
Here are the essential controls to get you started, based on the default keyboard setup. (Pro Tip: Many veterans recommend using a gamepad for finer control, especially for bowling.)
Batting Controls (Front Foot)
| Key | Standard Shot | Aggressive Shot |
|---|---|---|
| S | Defensive Block | Straight Drive (Aggressive) |
| A | Leg Glance | On-Drive |
| D | Cover Drive | Lofted Cover Drive |
Batting Controls (Back Foot)
| Key | Standard Shot | Aggressive Shot |
|---|---|---|
| S | Defensive Block | Backfoot Punch |
| A | Late Cut | Square Cut |
| D | Pull Shot | Hook Shot |
Advanced Batting:
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Foot Placement: Use the arrow keys before playing a shot to move your batsman’s footwork. Playing with the right footwork is crucial for timing.
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Super Shot (The “Six” Button): Press ‘W’ alongside your shot key (A, S, or D) to attempt a high-risk, high-reward lofted shot over the infield. Mistime it, and it’s a simple catch.
Bowling Controls
Bowling is where strategy truly unfolds.
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Select Delivery & Aim: Choose your delivery type (Outswinger, Yorker, Leg Cutter, etc.) and use the mouse or arrow keys to set your line and length on the pitch marker.
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Run-Up & Release: Press ‘S’ to start your run-up. A vertical meter will appear. Press ‘S’ again in the “green zone” for ideal pace and accuracy. Pressing in the red gives you extra speed but less control.
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Swing & Seam: After release, quickly tap the left or right arrow keys to impart late swing or seam movement, deceiving the batsman.
Fielding Controls
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Change Fielder: Tab key.
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Throw: S to throw to the keeper’s end, A to the bowler’s end, or D to the nearest base.
Pro Gameplay Tips & Strategies from a Veteran
Knowing the controls is one thing; winning matches is another. Here are strategies refined over countless virtual Ashes series:
1. Batting with Patience: This isn’t a T20 slog-fest. Treat your first 10-15 balls like a real test innings. Play defensive shots (‘S’ key) to get your “eye in.” Your batsman’s timing circle will turn from red to yellow to green, indicating they’re settled. Then start playing your aggressive shots.
2. The Art of Bowling: Don’t just bowl fast. Set up the batsman.
* Bowl 3-4 consecutive outswingers to a right-hander, then surprise them with a sharp inswinger (or vice-versa).
* Use slower balls and cutters in one-day matches when batsmen are pre-meditating aggressive shots.
* For spinners, vary your pace (using the meter) more than your line.
3. Field Placement is Key: Before bowling, go to the fielding menu. Against aggressive batsmen, bring the deep fielders in to cut off singles. For tail-enders, employ a packed slip cordon. Customizing your field is half the battle won.
The Legacy & How to Play Cricket 2007 on Modern PCs
The game wasn’t without flaws—fielding could be erratic, and certain shot animations were repetitive. Yet, its core cricket simulation was unmatched for its time.
Want to play it today? While finding an original copy can be challenging, dedicated fan forums like PlanetCricket.net are treasure troves. They offer guides on running the game on Windows 10/11, as well as fan-created patches that update rosters to the 2020s, add modern kits, and fix bugs, essentially creating a “Cricket 2007 – 2024 Edition.”
Final Verdict: A Timeless Classic
EA Sports Cricket 2007 mastered the delicate balance between accessibility and depth. It rewarded understanding the sport, not just button-mashing. While newer titles like Cricket 22 offer better graphics and official licenses, many purists argue that none have quite captured the satisfying feel of batting and bowling that this 2007 classic perfected.
Ready to relive the glory days? Dust off your copy, apply the latest community patches, and use the controls and strategies in this guide. You’ll soon be batting with the grace of Sachin and bowling with the menace of McGrath all over again.