LAHORE – Former Pakistan captain Javed Miandad believes that Test cricket could be headed for a revolution if the experiment to play the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final under floodlights succeeds.
The PCB has decided to hold the five-day final between Habib Bank and PIA under lights, with coloured balls. It is the first time that a first class match is being held under lights in Pakistan’s cricket history.
“It is an experiment we have decided to take… to make our contribution to world cricket. Other countries are also experimenting with playing the longer version of the game under lights, using coloured balls,” said Miandad.
“For us, this experiment is very important because if it is successful in attracting people to the stadium and creating interest, it would allow us to restructure our domestic cricket,” he said.
Miandad added that if the experiment was successful, it would have an impact on the future format of Test cricket at the international stage.
“It is a fact that the ICC is also working on the possibility of day and night Test matches.”
Miandad said the choice of coloured balls would be made by the captains of both teams.
“They will have nets under light and will decide with which colour they are more comfortable with. Pink and the yellow balls are available,” said the former great. The veteran noted that T20 cricket had shaken the foundation of cricket, and it was imperative to make the five-day game more receptive and interesting for the spectators. “All three formats of the sport are here to stay, but for Test cricket to survive it needs to be more exciting and interesting for the common man. Day and night matches and coloured balls can make a difference,” he said. Miandad said that Tests and ODIs remain the true essence of the sport. “T20 cricket to me is all about entertaining the crowd. It is like junk food. Don’t expect to find quality cricketers from this format,” he said.
