Cummins Calls for Dedicated Test Window
Australia’s Tests and ODI captain Pat Cummins has called for fixing a specific window for Test matches to avoid a clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL). In a recent interview, Cummins emphasized the importance of a dedicated Test window to help players manage their schedules better.
Need for a Specific Test Window
Cummins highlighted that franchise cricket is becoming more lucrative and appealing for players from various countries compared to international cricket. He mentioned that playing in franchise leagues like the IPL could significantly reduce the amount of time players spend away from home. “If I went and played franchise cricket, I could probably be away for a half or a third of the amount we are for Australia,” he stated.
Australia’s Test Cricket Schedule
In Australia, Test cricket is traditionally played from November to January, a period free from other cricketing commitments. Cummins suggested that having specific windows for both IPL and Test matches would simplify decision-making for players. “If we can have specific windows for IPL but then also Test windows, that makes the decision-making for the players a lot easier,” he added.
Support from Other Players
Cummins is not alone in his views. England skipper Jos Buttler has also suggested organizing international cricket outside the IPL window. Buttler stated, “It’s my personal opinion that there shouldn’t be any international cricket that clashes with the IPL.” He emphasized that prioritizing preparation for the World Cup involves playing and performing for England, but also acknowledged the long-standing presence of IPL games in the calendar.
IPL and PSL Scheduling Conflicts
The Indian Premier League’s extended window in the international calendar starts in March and runs until the beginning of June each year. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is likely to go head-to-head with the IPL in 2025. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a new window for the PSL to avoid collision with the ICC Champions Trophy, slated for February 2025.
“Due to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being held in the traditional event window, the event window for the 2025 event will be 7 April 2025 – 20 May 2025,” proposed PCB in a meeting held in May.
By addressing these scheduling conflicts, cricket boards aim to ensure that players can participate in both international and franchise cricket without compromising on either.(cricket betting sites)