Sachin's suggestion

Over the last few days there has been plenty of chatter regarding Sachin Tendulkar’s relatively recent correspondence to the ICC.

He has thrown his considerable clout again behind a concept that he originally mooted in 2009. His letter is further testimony to the fact that the interest in the ODI game world-wide is waning and therefore needs an overhaul. More importantly it is in danger of losing its own identity. In a nutshell Sachin proposes primarily that an ODI should consist of four quarters (4 x alternate 25 overs) to assist in eliminating any distinct advantage the outcome of the toss might present due to prevailing conditions.

Many have suggested this change before at international level but the fact that such a legendary individual has again added his extremely influential voice will result in further dialogue despite the ICC’s response. His pro-activeness must be applauded. Tendulkar deserves an audience.

Records show that the first time a split innings game was introduced was when Martin Crowe conceptualised an ultra-short version called Cricket Max way back in 1996 in New Zealand. Cricket Max had a few rewarding ‘catch up’ boundary hitting tweaks that heightened interest and promoted close finishes but this model was more akin to the 20/20 format. More recently domestic structures have successfully trialled a similar standard concept of longer duration adding further fuel to the advancement consideration.

If we are brutally honest and agenda free in our assessment of the one-day game, surely most will acknowledge that something needs to be done. Sadly, existing contractual obligations cloud the issue. Only in England and Australia is the 50 over version consistently flourishing and by extension read similar for tests. New and burgeoning cricketing markets that do not have the luxury of relying on an established cricketing culture will always be tested for loyalty.

The 50 over game is now the poorest cousin and a quick glance at spectator interest at most venues around the cricketing globe confirms this. No further proof is needed.

Test cricket is the bedrock of the game and must be preserved. Tweaked, but preserved. 20/20 cricket is a completely different animal and must be intelligently nurtured and not sacrificed in the interest of greed. Fifty over cricket must be given a brand new identity and structure so that intrigue and interest returns.

The opinions of the world’s most influential players should always carry serious credence and be heeded to initiate debate.