Final answer:
The aim of promoting cricket among boys at public schools was to instill discipline and character.
Step-by-step explanation:
The aim of promoting cricket among boys at public schools was to instill discipline and character. While it may have also resulted in creating future cricket stars, increasing enrollment at the schools, or discouraging other sports to some extent, the primary goal was to cultivate discipline and character among the students. Cricket, with its rules, teamwork, and values, provided an opportunity for the boys to learn important life skills such as perseverance, sportsmanship, and patience.