The International Cricket Council (ICC) has received recommendations from its cricket committee to establish a minimum of three Tests in every World Test Championship (WTC) series. This proposal, led by former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, was discussed during a board meeting held in Dubai, as reported by the Times of India on October 22.
As reported by the Times of India, an ICC source explained the rationale behind this recommendation: “Some countries like South Africa, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka mostly play just two-Test series. Only India, England, and Australia engage in longer Test series. That doesn’t help in promoting Test cricket, and the point distribution becomes very unfair.” The aim is to create a more equitable playing field among nations.
In addition to the three-Test minimum, the committee has urged host nations to incorporate more day-night Test matches into their home season schedules. The source noted that pink-ball Tests have successfully attracted larger crowds. “Recently, we saw very poor turnouts in Pakistan. However, the three pink-ball Tests in India sold more tickets than usual,” they added.
Despite the benefits of day-night Tests, India has been hesitant to embrace this format fully, having last played a pink-ball Test in March 2022. Currently, Australia is the only nation regularly hosting day-night Tests. India is set to face Australia in a pink-ball match at Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10, 2024.
The ICC cricket committee includes several prominent figures: Ganguly, former Sri Lankan skipper Mahela Jayawardene, South Africa’s Shaun Pollock, New Zealand’s Daniel Vettori, West Indies’ Roger Harper, and India’s VVS Laxman. Jay Shah, who will soon become the ICC chairman, is also part of this influential group.
Recommended Changes in ODIs
To further enhance One Day Internationals (ODIs), the committee has suggested using two new balls only for the first 25 overs. After that period, only one ball would be utilized. “The recommendations will be sent to the captains for consensus,” said an ICC source. This change aims to encourage reverse swing and bring finger spinners back into the game.
In another development during the board meeting, the ICC decided to modify the tenure of its chairman and independent directors. They will now serve two terms of three years each instead of two-year tenures. This change may provide greater stability and continuity in leadership roles within the organization.
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