The fact that most Indians like cricket is because it has been a traditional game in the world. The craze for cricket in India developed over the early years of newspaper, radio, television and other communicating devices.

One of the other reasons is the advertising of the game. In the late 20th and early 21st century, there has been a lot of advertising of the game. Many players are associated with well-known brands, which makes it easier for them to reach out to common public and popularize their field. Cricketers have been endorsing various brands since very early time which gives them a lot of advertisement. 

Other reason is the ease of understanding. Since cricket was made popular in India during British period, it was also easy to understand and enjoy. The public wants something to watch collectively and enjoy also, and cricket being a really simple game, makes it easy to become popular.

Also, since it is a really energetic game it gives a sense of competition among the players as well as spectators. 

Many people idealize their favorite cricketers because the game affects the psychological state of mind of the spectators. 

No other game has been popularized and  advertised so much till now as cricket, thus, making it the oldest and most popular sport in India. Although the national sport of India is hockey, still cricket is more popular among the people due to these traditional reasons.