reprinted from the BBC

Cricket's left-handed batsmen really do have an advantage at the crease, according to an analysis of the stats. Scientists who studied the World Cup found these players hit more runs, batted longer and tended to lose their wickets only because they slogged out.

But the explanation for this better performance is not so straightforward.

The researchers think the bowler's experience of left-handers is crucial because the advantage is less evident at the highest levels of the sport.