A vendor sells Wall's ice cream at the second Test between India and England at Lord's in 1952 © Getty Images

It's fuel, it's fire, it's everything a good match requires -food is an inseparable part of the cricket experience. The rhythms of a Test ebb and flow around the many tea and lunch breaks, a picnic by the ground is the quintessence of an English summer, and can you even say you've been to a game in South Africa if you haven't partaken of a braai?

This pitch invader knows who's likely to be thanked rather than tackled.

Coffee, tea or me? Michael Vaughan is not convinced by the dubious treats on offer Nick Potts / © PA Photos

Jelly beans: a source of nectar for bees, mischief for England fielders, and aggressive bowling energy for Indian quicks.

A bee is delighted by an unexpected find in the outfield during the second England v India Test at Trent Bridge in 2007 Tom Shaw / © Getty Images

Through strategic positioning, the ice-cream truck hopes to catch the eye of dismissed batsmen looking to replenish lost nutrients and seek refuge in sugar highs.

Ice cream, you scream... for a sight screen to block out this delectable distraction when batting Stu Forster / © Getty Images

In-stadium vendors in the Caribbean entertain the crowds with their pithy match commentary and sharp throws of bags of peanuts to reach their customers.

The peanut gallery is the place to be at in Sabina Park during the 2007 World Cup Clive Rose / © Getty Images

Back in the good old days tea breaks were full silver service.

Don Bradman is served a cuppa during the fourth Test between England and Australia in 1938 © Getty Images

You never grow out of tuck boxes. Alec Stewart brought his to the 1996 World Cup in the subcontinent.

It's not junk food, it's trunk food © PA Photos/Getty Images

Players aren't as accessible to fans as they used to be. How awesome is it, then, to be served breakfast by the Australian captain?

Michael Clarke attempts a side hustle at the launch of the Australia tri-series in 2010 Bradley Kanaris / © Getty Images

Proud Yorkshireman Dickie Bird reminds England - and Yorkshire - players Craig White, Michael Vaughan, Darren Gough, Matthew Hoggard (standing) and Ryan Sidebottom of where their loyalties lie.

Salt and battery: Yorkshire puddings bring all the boys to the yard © Getty Images

South African ground etiquette - BYOB: Bring Your Own Barbecue.

We'll get braai with a li'l help from our friends Rebecca Naden / © PA Photos

Nishi Narayanan is an assistant editor at ESPNcricinfo

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

 

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