Australia’s Test and ODI captain, Pat Cummins, has called for a more structured cricket schedule, emphasizing the need for designated windows for both Test cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). Speaking at the MCC World Cricket Connects 2024 event held at Lord’s, Cummins highlighted the challenges faced by players due to the demanding calendar.
“Franchise cricket for some countries is more lucrative, more appealing than international cricket. If I went and played franchise cricket, I could probably be away for a half or a third of the amount we are for Australia,” Cummins stated. He proposed that having specific windows for both the IPL and Test cricket would simplify decision-making for players.
SOURCE : ZEE
In Australia, the Test cricket season typically runs from November to January, with no other major cricket events overlapping during that period. Cummins believes that adopting a similar approach for the IPL would allow players to plan their commitments better. By creating separate windows, players can balance their international duties with lucrative franchise leagues without compromising their availability for national teams.
Source:- BBC news
Meg Lanning, captain of Australia’s women’s cricket team, echoed Cummins’ sentiments. She emphasized that elite players cannot sustainably participate in both international and domestic leagues simultaneously. The risk of burnout increases when players juggle multiple formats throughout the year.
During the same event, Cricket Australia Chairman Mike Baird addressed concerns about the future of Test cricket. While acknowledging the economic challenges, Baird reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting and growing Test cricket. He emphasized the need for sustainable Test-playing nations and explored ways to maintain the game’s prominence.
In summary, Cummins’ call for separate windows aims to strike a balance between international and franchise cricket, ensuring players’ well-being and the longevity of Test cricket
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