Former West Indian batter Brian Lara kept his points on securing Test cricket, as the world’s finest Test cricketers with uncountable records now felt some danger in terms of Test cricket. Brian Lara urging the governing body to intervene and establish a framework to address the growing dominance of franchise-based T20 leagues, which has significantly encroached upon Test cricket’s prominence
Due to a scheduling conflict with their domestic T20 league, SA20, South Africa fielded a weakened team against New Zealand in a recent incident that highlights the difficulties faced by Test cricket in that country. This situation has rekindled discussions about the value and importance of Test cricket in light of the rise of shorter format competitions.
From a cricket perspective, Lara emphasized the difficulties experienced by teams outside of the major powers when their best players are unavailable because of T20 league commitments. This scenario affects the competitive balance and presents obstacles for emerging teams striving to make their mark on the international stage. Brian Lara’s sentiments are supported by recent events, such as Trent Boult’s decision to pursue opportunities as a T20 freelancer instead of a central contract with New Zealand Cricket.
Brian Lara has been talking about the role that played by BCCI plays. To maintain parity with match fees in other formats and leagues, the BCCI launched the Test Cricket Incentive Scheme in March of this year. This is an extra reward structure on top of the current match fee. Lara applauded the move but noted that maintaining attendance at the game and the sponsors’ interest were equally important.
That game must remain relevant—Brian Lara
Due to a scheduling conflict with their domestic T20 league, SA20, South Africa fielded a weakened team against New Zealand in a recent incident that highlights the difficulties faced by Test cricket in that country. This situation has rekindled discussions about the value and importance of Test cricket in the face of the growth of shorter format competitions.
“I think ICC should put their head together and find a way where franchise cricket takes over, but in a much more structured way and not in terms of the free fall that is going on at the moment,” said Brian Lara
“I hope the astute thinkers could find a way to make sure that it (Test) remains relevant. I like the Test Championship and I think it is important to make sure that the game remains relevant,” further added