Yes, and I can tell you, playing Madden is much more enjoyable than high school practices for 4 hours in streaming hot weather and trying to avoid multiple 230 pound men who are coming at you like a heat seeking missile at your knees.
But seriously, the entire reason I'm playing the sports game is because I've played those sports either recreationally or on a school team and have enjoyed the gameplay. I've never played Cricket or something like that so I would have no interest in buying that game if I don't know the rules or have investment in the personalities.