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'Only Three Countries Seem Interested' - Akash Chopra's Frustrated Reaction On Test Cricket

image-lqwhwsgpAakash Chopra not happy  as South Africa and Pakistan Shift Test Focus.(x.com)

Cricket fans witness a shift in focus from Test cricket in South Africa and Pakistan. The cricketing world was taken aback when Cricket South Africa opted for a relatively new squad for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand, sidelining some of their top stars who will be engaged in the SA T20.

This move by Cricket South Africa reflects a divergence from the traditional emphasis on Test cricket, as the board has decided to forge ahead with less seasoned players. Former India player & renowned cricket commentator & analyst, Aakash Chopra expressed his dismay on social media ‘X’, highlighting the concerning trend in red-ball cricket. He wrote, 

“SA has selected a second-string team for the Test Series vs NZ. Test Cricket is shrinking…only three countries seem interested in it. Or let’s say, can still afford to play it without worrying about financial consequences.”



Adding to the dwindling interest in Test cricket, Pakistan has decided to rest Shaheen Afridi for the third Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, citing workload management. Aakash Chopra voiced his discontent with these developments, underlining the apparent lack of seriousness towards the longest format. The veteran cricketer expressed concern about the diminishing appeal of Test cricket as only a handful of countries still need to be committed to it.

South Africa, currently engaged in a two-Test series against India, is set to face New Zealand in a two-Test series starting on February 4. The decision to field a relatively inexperienced squad against New Zealand indicates a strategic shift, possibly prioritizing shorter formats over the traditional and enduring Test matches.

Aakash Chopra, known for his candid opinions, in the past criticized the scheduling choices expressing disappointment with India playing only two Test matches against South Africa before the start of the Boxing Day Test match. He deemed it a disservice to Test cricket and suggested it might also impact the host country adversely.

South Africa is set to conclude the two-match Test series with their final match in Cape Town on January 3rd against India.