During a cricket match, cricketers often experience muscle fatigue due to heavy physical exercise. What biochemical process primarily contributes to muscle fatigue in cricketers?

Muscle fatigue in cricketers is primarily caused by anaerobic respiration in muscle cells. During intense physical activity, such as running, batting, or bowling, muscle cells undergo anaerobic respiration when there is insufficient oxygen available. This process involves the breakdown of glucose through glycolysis to produce energy in the form of ATP. However, anaerobic respiration also leads to the accumulation of lactic acid in muscles as a byproduct. The buildup of lactic acid lowers the pH, causing muscle acidity and discomfort, ultimately contributing to muscle fatigue experienced by cricketers during matches.