(Image Source: PA Wire)
[Saba Sports News] Ex-England cricketer Michael Vaughan recently suggested on X (formerly Twitter) a three-month exclusive period annually dedicated solely to Test cricket. This proposal aims to preserve the traditional format amidst the growing popularity of shorter formats. Vaughan’s comment aligns with the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England, starting January 25, which marks England’s first red-ball engagement of the year.
Vaughan advocates for this uninterrupted Test cricket window, suggesting that T20 leagues and other ICC events should occur outside this period. His recent post on X emphasized, “A 3-month dedicated window for Test cricket every year for both men & women’s teams is the only way to protect the greatest format…no other cricket but Test around those three months…the other 9 months for all the leagues, ICC events.”
In addition to this, Vaughan also addressed the longevity of Test cricket. In response to a user’s comment about the format’s potential decline, he supported the idea of shortening Test matches from five to four days as a means to preserve them. He believes that four-day games within this three-month period could help sustain Test cricket’s relevance.
The upcoming Test in Hyderabad, part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, is crucial for both teams. India currently ranks second in the WTC standings, while England, led by Ben Stokes, is in seventh place. This series presents an opportunity for England to improve their position in the standings.