Cricket was first played in the 16th century in South East England. The earliest definite mention of the game is from a 1598 court case, which indicates it was played by children in Surrey around 1550. It likely evolved from a game played by children in the Weald region. 

Key Historical Milestones:

1611: The first recorded instance of cricket as an adult sport, where men were prosecuted for playing on Sunday.

1697: The earliest known 11-a-side match took place in Sussex.

1744: The first known Laws of Cricket were codified.

1844: The first international match was played between the USA and Canada.