An early version of the sport’s global governing body, the International Cricket Council, came into being in the late 1920s and initially covered only “countries within the Empire,” including South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, India and the West Indies region.

In 1965, the I.C.C. started to let in other countries, like the Netherlands and Denmark, and in 1975, it organized the first World Cup.

Yet despite opening up the tournament over the years, every winner since the inaugural Cup has been a former colony. Oddly enough, England has never managed to win this tournament.

The sun never sets on England’s hopes. The finals are on July 14 in London.

That’s it for this briefing. Clear the ropes! — Alisha

Thank you

To Mark Josephson, Eleanor Stanford and Kenneth R. Rosen for the break from the news. Alisha wrote today’s Back Story. You can reach the team at briefing@nytimes.com.

P.S.

• We’re listening to “The Daily.” Our latest episode is about how a U.S. cyberweapon backfired.

• Here’s our Mini Crossword, and a clue: Monthly TV bill (5 letters). You can find all our puzzles here.

• The New York Times Sports Desk has a free newsletter that brings our most ambitious coverage of competitions, athletes and the business of sport to your inbox every week.