Jay Shah
New Delhi, Aug 15: Jay Shah, Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), revealed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) is discussing a special fund to support the future of Test cricket.
“I am part of the ICC’s Finance and Commercial Affairs (F&CA) committee. I have proposed a dedicated fund for Test cricket. Hosting Test matches is costly. If the ICC Board agrees, we can establish this fund. We are working to create this special fund for Test cricket,” Shah told The Times of India.
Concerns Over Day-Night Tests and Their Impact
He also explained why India doesn’t host many Day-Night Tests, noting that these matches often end in just two days, which affects spectators and broadcasters. India has hosted three Day-Night Tests at home, all of which ended in less than three days. The most recent was against Sri Lanka at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru in March 2022, where India won by 238 runs.
“Spectators and broadcasters lose out. We have to consider their interests too. As a fan, if you buy a five-day ticket and the match ends in two days, there’s no refund. I feel strongly about that issue,” Shah said.
When asked about some Test matches ending quickly, Shah responded, “It doesn’t happen often. If it does, and the opposition plays poorly, what can I do? When our players perform well, I can’t ask them to make the match last longer.”
Discussion on World Test Championship for Women’s Cricket
Regarding the possibility of a World Test Championship for women’s cricket, Shah stated it would only be feasible when all countries start playing the longer format. “It’s only possible when all countries play Test cricket. Currently, only India, Australia, and England regularly play Tests. New Zealand and South Africa have recently started, and progress will come when all nations join in.”
On the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Shah said discussions are ongoing with franchise owners and domestic teams. “There are pros and cons. The negative is it affects all-rounders, while the positive is it allows an extra Indian player. We should also consider the broadcasters. For me, the game’s growth is key. We are waiting for more feedback.”
He concluded by addressing the upcoming mega auctions. “We have listened to all franchises. The minority view matters as much as the majority. Ultimately, the BCCI office-bearers will decide. Franchises with strong teams oppose a big auction, while others want it. Balance and continuity are vital for the game’s growth.”
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