Ian Botham, a former England all-rounder, expressed concern that Test cricket was losing ground in India, especially with the growth of the Indian Premier League. Botham also discussed the impending Ashes tour, predicting that England will beat Australia, given how Bazball has helped the Three Lions change their fortunes around.
The 67-year-old is concerned about the state of Indian Test cricket. The renowned England player has said that the country is dominated by the IPL. The 67-year-old feels the Indian Premier League (IPL) is profitable, but it will not last as long as Test cricket. Botham’s comment came before of the important India-Australia series.
“You go to India now and they won’t watch Test cricket. It’s all IPL. They earn big money and it sounds great now, but how long do they think this is going to last? Test cricket has been around for 100 years plus, it’s not going to go anywhere.”
The Former English all-rounder Ian Botham criticized Indian players’ and viewers’ lack of enthusiasm in Test cricket. Botham warned players, particularly young ones, to prioritise Test cricket since the format will be phased out if they lose interest.
“Yes, it’s sustainable, they’ve just played 10 games, won nine and lost one. Look, if you play like that you’re going to lose occasionally, it’s inevitable, but what a great advert for Test cricket. To win 3-0 in Pakistan is a great effort. Pakistan just don’t lose 3-0 at home. And to achieve that was fantastic.”
Is he right about this fact?
