2024-07-11 00:36:31
Franchise cricket is becoming popular all over the world with time. Cricketers from different countries are giving more priority to franchise cricket than playing for their country. As a result, international cricket, especially Tests, is likely to be under threat. Australian cricketer Pat Cummins demanded a separate window for franchise and international cricket to save this longest format of cricket.
Cummins spoke about this at the World Cricket Connects event of the ICC at Lord’s. There, Cummins said, ‘Franchise cricket is more important for some countries, even than international cricket. If I had played in the franchise league, I would have played maybe half or one-third as much as I could have played for Australia.’
Cummins, who led Australia to the 2023 ODI World Cup and Test Championship, said the schedule change was challenging for the players. Having two format specific schedules helps in decision making. As a result, players can play in two places separately.
Cummins commented, ‘November to January is the time for Test cricket in Australia. No other games are played at this time. If we have specific windows for IPL and Tests. Then it becomes much easier for the players to make decisions.’
Cricket Australia chairman Mike Bird has made similar comments. He said, Australia is always there for the development of Tests, ‘We don’t think Cricket Australia should dictate to any country. But we are always open to discussions and suggestions on how to support Test cricket.’
Pointing to the popularity of Tests in Australia, Bird added, ‘Even though it’s a white-ball game here for an entire summer, Test cricket is still important in Australia. It is very clear, Australia will support Tests and help grow and invest in Test cricket.’