Rajendra Prasad Mohapatra

With various franchise league cricket tournaments mushrooming across the globe, T20 cricket is currently ruling the roost. The games longest format Test cricket is also gradually finding its feet with the inception of the World Test Championship Final.

However, with players preferring short-term contracts over playing for their country, the future of ODI cricket is in jeopardy. Retirements of players like England all-rounder Ben Stokes and New Zealand pacer Trent Boult from ODI format to play in overseas T20 leagues has further added to the doubts surrounding the future of the 50-over format. Currently, ODI cricket has been left gasping for breath.

Legendry cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, who has a very good cricketing brain, had suggested a dynamic change to the format some years ago for its survival. In a recent conclave, the Master Blaster has reiterated his suggestion.

As per the former India skipper, the format should be broken into four innings of 25 overs each rather than two of 50. This would break the monotony and reignite people’s interest in the format.

“Two new balls used in this format of the game have eliminated reverse swing completely, which was the hallmark of ODI cricket in the 2000s and 2010s. It has shifted the game heavily in favour of the batsmen. That interesting element is missing today because of two new balls. 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,” said Sachin.

Sachin also said that the modification could also be more commercially viable since there would be three innings breaks rather than just one.

Several cricket experts have also supported Sachin. As per them, Sachin’s suggestion must be considered seriously to keep the ODI format relevant and engaging for fans, players, and broadcasters alike. 
 

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