In a series of expected events, Australia responded emphatically to their loss in Darwin by defeating Bangladesh by an innings and 51 runs in the second Test in Mackay, wrapping up the game inside two days. Mitchell Starc was the chief architect of the strong win, tearing through Bangladesh's batting lineup in both innings to clinch an impressive 10-wicket match haul. The dominating result helped Australia level the two-match series 1-1 after Bangladesh had stunned them in the opening Test.
Justin Langer expresses concern over shortened Tests
Reacting to this, former Australia batter Justin Langer has expressed his concerns over Test matches increasingly reaching their result within just two days. The former left-handed batter, believes such short-lived games are not good for red-ball cricket and can have a negative impact on the game in several ways.
ALSO READ: Did You Know? Crazy fact about Saransh Jain: just third Indian to….
ALSO READ: Who is Saransh Jain? All about India's oldest Test debutant
In a conversation with SEN Radio, the former Australia international claimed such short-lived games are not good for the growth of Test cricket, as it is a disappointment for the crowds.
"Two-day Test matches (are) unacceptable. It's no good for the game for so many reasons. Last year was disappointing for the crowds, for the kids who get to watch their heroes on TV or listen on the radio or get to the ground," said Langer.
Langer also drew attention to the final aspects of the Tests ending much earlier than scheduled, primarily for Cricket Australia, when spends a big amount money on developing the sport at the grassroot level. He further argued that challenging surfaces and excessive help for bowlers should not always be blamed for shortened games, saying that shortcoming in players' techniques also need to be checked.
"Economically it's a disaster for Cricket Australia who put money into grassroots cricket. And you know we're talking about very well-paid professionals now, and you get tired of hearing ‘Oh it's just the pitches, oh it's the curators, it's the ball moves a bit." added Langer.
Problem for Australian cricket?
The Mackay Test became the third game involving Australia in their last seven outings to finish within two days, adding to the growing debate over the increasing number of shortened clashes in the red-ball format. Australia will now look to gear up for their next Test series in October against South Africa.