'Sets A Very Bad Precedent'- Venkatesh Prasad On CSA Prioritising SA20 Over Tests
SA20 has financially revived South African cricket [X.com]
In a recent Twitter exchange, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad expressed concern over the growing trend of players prioritising lucrative franchise T20 tournaments over representing their nations in Test cricket.
Prasad's response came in light of South Africa's decision to send a third-string team for a two-match Test series against New Zealand, as senior players participate in the SA20 T20 franchise league.
"Sets a very bad precedent. Sadly, it has reached this state where Franchise cricket has surpassed Test cricket in priority. Hope this doesn't become the way forward," remarked Prasad, highlighting the shift in focus among players.
Traditionally considered the pinnacle of the game, Test cricket has faced challenges in the modern era, with players increasingly drawn to the financial rewards offered by T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL), and Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
The allure of substantial contracts and the promise of quick financial gains have reshaped players' priorities, leading to a noticeable decline in Test cricket's importance.
This transformation is evident in the statistics, as high-profile players, once synonymous with Test cricket, allocate a significant portion of their playing time to T20 leagues. The IPL, in particular, witnesses extravagant sums being spent on player auctions, with marquee names fetching staggering amounts.
Concerns about the diminishing significance of Test cricket have been echoed by several former cricketers, emphasising the need to balance financial aspirations with national duty. The shift in focus raises questions about the impact on the international circuit, with players sometimes prioritising cash-rich tournaments over their national team commitments.
The dilemma is further fuelled by audience preferences, with the fast-paced nature of T20 matches catering to the modern viewer's desire for excitement and instant gratification. In contrast, Test matches, characterised by longer durations and strategic nuances, struggle to keep pace with the frenetic energy of T20 cricket.
As South Africa names seven uncapped players in their Test squad for the New Zealand series, concerns grow about the potential dilution of Test cricket. Prasad's candid response reflects a sentiment shared by many within the cricketing community.
India are set to take on South Africa in the second test at Cape Town on January 3, aiming to level the two-match series.
 "Sumit Gupta")
