Sachin Tendulkar expressed concern that the current ODI format has become boring. He suggested a modification where both teams bowl in a match’s first and second halves. ODI cricket has been facing a challenge to remain relevant in the face of the ever-growing popularity of the T20 format and a crammed cricketing schedule. Many experts and former cricketers think the ODI format may eventually die naturally. Tendulkar gave creative input at the India Today conclave to make the format enjoyable. He said:
“It’s getting monotonous, without a doubt. The current format, which has been there for a while now, is two new balls (per innings). When you have two new balls, you eliminate reverse swing. Even though we are in the 40th over of the game, it’s just the 20th over of that ball. And the ball only starts reversing around the 30th over.”
“That element (reverse swing) is missing today because of two new balls.” Tendulkar added, “The current format, I feel, is heavy on bowlers. Right now, the game is becoming too predictable. From the 15th to the 40th over, it’s losing its momentum. It’s getting boring.”
In a suggestion for modifying the format, the 49-year-old proposed teams alternate batting and bowling every 25 overs to have three innings breaks instead of two. This proposal was made during India vs. Australia one-day series, with India set to host the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Tendulkar prioritizes engagement over duration for Test matches.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia was marked by the early conclusion of three Tests within three days, prompting heavy criticism.
In response to the debate surrounding the pitches used during the series, Sachin Tendulkar opined that the primary concern in Test cricket should be its level of engagement, regardless of its duration. He emphasized the importance of cricketers being equipped to play on various surfaces, such as bouncy, fast, slow, turning, swinging, and seaming conditions with different types of balls.
The fourth Test of the series, held in Ahmedabad, featured a batting-friendly pitch that resulted in a drab draw.
Despite the lack of excitement in the fourth Test, India emerged victorious in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, securing a 2-1 win over Australia. This win also ensured their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2023.