With the increasing popularity of T20 leagues and T20I cricket, clouds are hovering over the future of ODI cricket. Many feel that the 50-over format is time consuming and they want ICC to completely vanish this format.
Since the past few days, many cricket experts and former cricketers have been involved in debates subjected to the future of ODI cricket. They are of the opinion that there's a need to alter the 50-over format as the T20I format is entertaining as well as less time consuming.
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Recently, Ravi Shastri also spoke about the same, suggesting that the length of the ODI format should be reduced to 40 overs per side. Not only him, but even many fans are also in the favour of the same.
The latest to join the bandwagon is former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja.
Speaking to Fan Code, Jadeja said neither the audience nor the broadcasters see any benefit in bilateral ODIs. He believes while Tests have enough historical value to "forever remain", T20Is are a killer blow to 50-over-cricket.
“There was a time when ODI cricket had arrived and then lesser Test matches were being played because that is again, more productive for the players, broadcasters and for the association. Broadcasters play a key role. If you notice, whichever gets the higher media rights that gets more popularity.
“ODI was expensive at one point of time. Then T20 came. Now their rights have increased and hence ODIs are being played less. But Test will forever remain. In fact, India are playing more Test match now than they played 20-30 years back. But ODI...7 ghante kiske paas he agar saare teen ghante me kaam chalta he?” Ajay Jadeja said.
(Fan Code inputs)