Ian Chappell Criticises BCCI's Decision to Not Play Day-Night Test

The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to not play Day-Night Test in Australia hasn’t gone down well with Ian Chappell.

The former Australian skipper believes Indian board has decided, as they want to increase their winning chances in Australia.

India is yet to savour a Test series win on Australian soil. Thus, Chappell believes the Indian board sees it as a perfect opportunity to win their first series against a weakened Australian team. Meanwhile, Australia will be without the services of their linchpin players Steven Smith and David Warner.

Chappell has hit the nail on the head once again.

Chappell added the best interest of the game had taken a back seat in BCCI’s bus. Meanwhile, the Indian board has said they need at least 18 months to make their Pink Ball debut.

Ian Chappell wrote in his column for Hindustan Times, “The BCCI’s decision was extremely disappointing. As Adelaide has become the unofficial home of Day/Night Test cricket. Three years of rip-roaring success under lights at Adelaide Oval was expected to be further enhanced by the presence of a strong Indian cricket team”.

Chappell hits outs at BCCI decision.

The legendary batsman added whatever excuse BCCI gives is not justifiable. Chappell said the Indian board had taken this decision to strengthen their hopes of winning their first series in Australia.

Chappell further penned down, “No matter what excuse the BCCI offers, it’s hard to accept that this decision was anything other than looking to increase India’s chances of winning a first ever Test series in Australia against a weakened opponent”.

Chappell went on to note that T20 form is dominating the cricket world. Hence, the longest format needs proper nurturing. Former Australia’s captain added Day-Night Test match is the way forward.

Chappell who was known for his brilliant batting added, “In an age where T20 leagues are flooding the market, Test cricket needs all the nurturing on offer from the officials if it is to survive this influx. Day/Night Test cricket in centres where it’s viable is a must if the long form is to have a future in a market. This is a becoming ever more competitive and where the officials are constantly looking for ways to compress the game”.

Indian team must embrace the Day-Night Tests, as it is the only top team who is yet to make his debut in the format. Thus, BCCI must make its priorities clear. Chappell has once again hit the nail on the coffin with his experience analysis.

In the age of T20 era, it is imperative to nurture Test match cricket which is the purest form of the game. ICC has come up with Test championship, and it would be interesting to note its impact on the longest form.