Women's Test Cricket needs the fifth day - ICC must act now

30th June 2022 England Women v/s South Africa Women

It is Day 4 of the Test match between England Women and South Africa Women. The Heather Knight-led side is in a commanding position. After taking a 133-run lead, they have reduced South Africa to 55/3. However, their destiny lies in the hands of the rain gods. 

However, South African players are unwilling to surrender meekly. They are patience personified, especially Tumi Sekhukhune. The English players try all tricks up their sleeves, but the Proteas refuse to give in. However, the game ends early as the weather gods have the last laugh. South Africa finished on 181/5, with a 48-run lead.

30th January 2022 Women's Ashes Test

It is the final day of the Women's Test match between the two arch-rivals, England and Australia. The women from Down Under have set England a target of 257 from 48 overs on the final day. 

After being in the backseat for most of the game, the English players come out guns blazing. The top order takes the battle to the opposition. However, the Aussies strike back with a flurry of wickets. The game goes down to the wire, with England needing 45 runs off the last ten overs.

England manage to navigate the final overs, ending the day on 245/9. A classic case of so near yet so far for both the teams.

What similarities can be drawn from the two situations? 

Both matches ended in a draw. The last six Women's Test matches have resulted in a draw. What would have been the result if the teams had another day in hand? What if the Test matches were a five day-affair? 

Granted, a hundred overs are bowled in a day in a Women's Test match. But a shortage of fifty overs goes a long way in deciding a team's fate. And in case of rain interruptions, a fifth day grants the extra cushion.

England captain Heather Knight opined after the match against South Africa.

"I still think we should play five-day Tests. Weather has intervened in our previous three Tests, it is something we should look at."

It is high time ICC incorporates this significant change in the Women's Test Cricket. Besides scheduling more red-ball cricket for women, a five-day affair is a must.