The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to make some major changes to promote more Tests and ODIs for the fans. The apex cricket body of the world is now contemplating the thought of having a minimum of three Test matches in every World Test Championship (WTC) series. On the other hand, two balls are to be used within the first 25 overs in an ODI match is also being proposed.
These new recommendations are understood to have been decided in Dubai when the body met for its meetings. Furthermore, the ICC is also keen on asking host nations to play more Day and Night Test matches in the next cycle.
ICC plans bold changes in next WTC Cycle
The ICC isn’t too pleased with nations who generally opt to play just 2 Test matches in a series. And this is massively resulted in fewer matches and less viewership thus declining the popularity of the longer formats of the game.
“Some countries like South Africa, New Zealand and Sri Lanka mostly play just two Test series. Only India, England and Australia play long Test series. That doesn’t help in promoting Test cricket and the point distribution becomes very unfair. The recommendations are targeted at wiping out such disparities,” an ICC source told The Times of India.
“The ICC committee feels the pink-ball Tests have brought more people into the stadiums. Recently, one saw very poor turnouts in Pakistan. The three pink-ball Tests in India sold more tickets than usual. Test-playing nations must be encouraged to schedule more pink-ball Tests,” the source said.
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Special change in ODIs?
The ICC believes that the usage of two balls in ODIs acts as a massive disadvantage for the bowlers. Since the ball remains hard towards the end of the game, it greatly benefits the batters, especially during the death overs when the pinch hitters can go all guns blazing.
As a result, the ICC is likely to introduce a new mandate where only two balls will be allowed to be used within the first 25 overs. Following this only a solitary ball will be used.
“The recommendation will be sent to the captains. A consensus must be achieved on this. But this looks the best option to bring reverse swing and finger spinners back into the game,” the source added.
