"Test status is best confined to eight nations" Ian Chappell 


image-lbafmi2eEngland Test Cricket Team [Source: Associated Press]


Among the rise of T20 cricket a lot of concern has been raised for the longest format of cricket. Many fear the extinction of Test cricket. Former Australian captain Ian Chappell believes that the Test status should be restricted to just eight nations. 

Chappell spoke in regard of how many countries can afford to host Test cricket, considering Test cricket requires a strong First-Class infrastructure. He also stated that only the boards that can invest into Test cricket and get worthwhile returns should participate in Test cricket. 

If ICC goes forward with the suggestion, Test privileges would be taken away from Ireland and Afghanistan. 


Ian Chappell suggests Test cricket's longevity 


"Test cricket is a tough but rewarding game and players deserve the opportunity to participate in the format if that is their choice. However, Tests are also steeped in culture and that requires the countries involved to have a strong first-class infrastructure."

"Not many teams have or can afford to build such infrastructure, as it costs money rather than bringing a return on investment. T20 leagues, which produce a healthy return, are much more acceptable to administrators." 

"Consequently, it makes no sense to reward Afghanistan and Ireland, two recent recipients of Test status, neither of whom have the grounds or the infrastructure to reasonably expect that status. Sadly, Test status is best confined to the eight nations who have had a long-standing culture of the format."



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