Share

Former Oz skipper backs four-day Tests

Sydney - Former Australian captain Mark Taylor has pitched in to the debate on how to revive spectator interest in Test cricket, calling for the game's longest format to be shortened by a day to encourage more attacking intent.

Test matches have witnessed a steady decline in attendances in recent years, throwing the door open to a number of novel means to engage fans, including the introduction of day-night Tests.

Taylor said making tests four-day affairs instead of five would help them become more viewer friendly and envisaged a scenario where matches could begin on Thursday and end on Sunday – in a manner similar to golf tournaments.

"It'll only add to the appeal of the game, make it a bit shorter and a bit faster," the former opening batsman told Melbourne's Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) radio station.

"That's what people of this generation want to see."

"You've got one less day to win, lose or draw a game, so it does force captains and players to be a little bit more aggressive in their thinking."

With test matches coming in for stiff competition from the game's newer, shorter formats, such as Twenty20 internationals and leagues, Taylor added that holding day-night tests was not the only option on the table.

"The numbers around the world are dying in some countries," the Cricket Australia board member said.

"That's why I think we have got to have the stuff like the day-night Test matches and... start thinking seriously about having four-day games of test cricket."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2251 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE