Final answer:
Cricket was spread by the English as a tool of diplomacy and has been crucial in forming cultural and political relations in South Asia, with the Cricket World Cup serving as a prominent example.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cricket, according to the English, was spread as b) A tool of diplomacy. This game was a colonial legacy that the British left in the countries they ruled, including South Asia, where it became an integral part of the culture. Cricket matches, such as those between India and Pakistan, often carry diplomatic weight and symbolize the historical and political tensions between these nations.
Moreover, the sport has been a means of building relationships between countries, as evidenced by events like the Cricket World Cup, which is organized by the International Cricket Council and creates a sense of comradery and global competition. South Asian nations have been very successful in the World Cup, with India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka all securing wins in different years.