Day-night Tests get VVS Laxman nod

The lasting memory of VVS Laxman's batting for any cricket fan comes from the Eden Gardens 13 years ago. His 281 wasn't just India's then-highest Test score, but also helped the team complete arguably the greatest turnaround in the game's history when they beat Australia after following on, and went on to win the series 2-1 after being 0-1 down.

Sadly, that format is failing to survive in today's day and age, with the rise of Twenty20 cricket alongside the money-spinning One-Day Internationals, and Laxman feels day-night Test matches must be tried if they can mean saving the five-day game.

"The survival of the longer version of the game is critical for the future of cricket. This should be the biggest worry confronting the administrators, the bigger challenge - how to attract more spectators to Tests. There have been several suggestions to promote day-night Test matches - I am not too sure if this variety would find favour with the spectators. It is, however, imperative that ways are found to sustain interest in Test cricket," Laxman said at the third annual MAK Pataudi Memorial Lecture here on Wednesday.

"Day-night Test cricket is being suggested, and while we are not sure whether it can meet technical requirements, it might draw newer audiences for its sheer novelty value. People could dash to a ground after a day's work and unwind for a few hours. Who knows, gradually their interest in Test cricket might be reignited, they might start coming to the grounds more regularly.
So maybe day-night cricket is worth a shot, no doubt, especially when the shot doesn't compromise the inherent core fabric of the longer version. Test matches during the day should remain the norm, but occasionally, five days of Test cricket under lights, especially in places of extreme heat and where dew is not a massive factor, will add an exciting dimension to the game.

Laxman supported the ICC's initiative to weed out bowlers with suspect actions.

"In the last few months, some of the most celebrated names in world have come under scanner. While I sympathise with them, it's imperative that the rules of cricket are respected and adhered to… There can be no compromise on the laws of the game."

Laxman also suggested that in each of the five zones, one centre should be picked to prepare pacy wickets that may help the Indian team prepare for overseas tours.

"We must continue to play to our strength by playing on pitches that assist spin. But we must also identify at least one venue in each zone where we can replicate surfaces we're most likely to encounter overseas. That way we can have proper preparatory camps before travelling overseas," he said.