Former New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson said that if Test cricket is to survive, it must go beyond the Big Three of India, Australia and England playing against each other. Williamson, who won the inaugural WTC with the Kiwis, said while the contests between the aforementioned teams provide for a riveting watch, they do not help the growth of the format.
“If only three teams are playing the format, it will struggle to survive. While we enjoy watching those series, they don’t fully support Test cricket’s growth. It’s a major challenge, with numerous conversations ongoing to find solutions if sustaining the format is the goal. Meanwhile, the game is under strain in many countries. There’s been a lot of discussion about the Test game and how to keep breathing life into it, especially in countries where it’s facing greater challenges,” Williamson said at the CEAT Cricket Awards on Tuesday.
Earlier this year it was reported that the International Cricket Council (ICC), in collaboration with cricket boards of India, Australia and England, is exploring the possibility of a two-tier Test system to facilitate more series between these three nations.
According to Williamson, irrespective of the discussions on a potential two-tier Test cricket system, it is the need of the hour for all playing nations to come together and find a solution.
“The concern with a potential two-tier system is how teams in the second tier can continue to improve and work their way up to the top division. The Test format needs greater importance placed on it by all playing nations, along with additional resources to support its growth. As a passionate supporter of Test cricket, I would love to see it thrive,” he said.
Lara’s take
West Indies legend Brian Lara also questioned the viability of Test cricket beyond the Big Three while challenging the West Indies, currently on tour of India for a two-Test series, to showcase where their passions truly lie.
Citing the example of the first Test between India and West Indies which ended inside three days in front of nearly-empty Ahmedabad Stadium — Lara said generating interest for the conventional format among fans is the key.
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“When you look at the Big Three, you look at England versus Australia in the Ashes, or just recently, India playing in Australia (or) India playing in England, and you would think that there is no greater day of cricket to watch,” Lara said.
“I’ve watched India versus England at Lord’s and there is nothing to compare it. I hope that Test cricket does not die, but the viability of it in other nations, the smaller nations, the nations with the inability to bring huge crowds to the game or bring big sponsors to the game, you’re really and truly testing their funds.” “I would rather like to find a solution to the problem than to say, ‘I give up and that’s the end of it’. The interest (in Tests in West Indies) is low. If you’re not doing well as a nation and if something else is popping up that’s more exciting, you can see it in the crowds.”
(With agency inputs)
