Former Australian skipper Ian Chappell has made a bold prediction about the shortest format of international cricket, the T20Is. As more T20 leagues have come to the fore in recent times, Chappell feels that there is a need to revisit the cricket schedule. In addition, the relationship between players and administrators needs to be improved otherwise the game is headed for an implosion of epic proportions.
In his column for ESPNCricinfo, he wrote "The whole cricket structure, especially the schedule, is in need of a thorough but positive inquisition with the game's future in view.
"There is also the glaring matter of the lack of partnership between players and administrators. Surely it shouldn't be - as it is currently - a matter of the administrators deciding the programme without any input from international players.
"If the international programme evolved as a result of consideration from such a partnership, then it would be much more palatable than the abomination that is the current schedule.
"T20 leagues are popping up faster than weeds in summer and an already implausible programme is headed for an almighty implosion."
The 79-year-old stressed on the need of players playing in the big leagues having a voice.
"T20 leagues now clash with each other and star players are signing longer-term contracts with expanding IPL clubs. These contradictions mean there will be a growing problem of how to produce greater numbers of marketable cricketers," the 79-year-old wrote.
"In the current environment some leagues won't be able to sign the limited number of star players available and this could eventually damage the ability to remain financially viable.
"These are all matters that need urgent attention but the big one is to ensure the players have a voice in the game's future."
Chappell also made a controversial statement as he feels that Ireland and Afghanistan should not have Test status as these nations need to have a better infrastructure for First-Class cricket to be able to compete with the big guns who have had the format ingrained in their culture.
"Test cricket is a tough but rewarding game and players deserve the opportunity to participate in the format if that is their choice. However, Tests are also steeped in culture and that requires the countries involved to have a strong first-class infrastructure," Chappell wrote.
"Not many teams have or can afford to build such infrastructure, as it costs money rather than bringing a return on investment. T20 leagues, which produce a healthy return, are much more acceptable to administrators.
"Consequently, it makes no sense to reward Afghanistan and Ireland, two recent recipients of Test status, neither of whom have the grounds or the infrastructure to reasonably expect that status.”
