Test cricket needs to be protected – Former Proteas skipper

Former Proteas skipper Graeme Smith insists that the powers that be in the game have to do more to safeguard the future of Test cricket.

Smith says that the ultimate format is close to his heart having led the Proteas to No 1 in the world in Test cricket.

He also captained South Africa in over 100 Tests and knows what it takes to be a success.

Test cricket needs to be protected

Firstly, Smith wants to see the Proteas performing well in Test cricket and keeping pace with the world powers.

“Test cricket is crucially important to me and my past career, having captained over 100 Tests and been No. 1 in the world. The legacy of seeing player going on to do well in Tests for South Africa is hugely important to me,” Smith told Betway.

Smith feels that the format will get harder for nations outside of England, India and Australia who have made big efforts to keep Test cricket at the heart of their game.

“It’s not only South Africa. For all countries outside of England, India and Australia, Test cricket is going to get harder and harder to facilitate with schedules, expenses and the way the money flows. The governing bodies need to think about how they protect six or seven nations in the Test group, because if it’s competitive, people will always want to watch. It’s an incredible format that keeps you enthralled for a number of days,” Smith added.

What we can control

Smith adds that building red-ball depth is something that South African cricket can control.

“You have got to think about what you can control.

“We aren’t involved in the decision making on Test cricket, but we can keep South African cricket strong by making sure there are 50 or 60 great cricketers that they can select from to keep the national team competitive in white ball and Test cricket,” Smith added.

West Indies a window into future of Test cricket

Smith feels that the West Indies provide a window into the future of the game especially when it comes to Tests.

“I think free agency in the West Indies is way ahead of everybody else,” Smith continued.

“With the nature of cricket in that country, a lot of players have been free agents, been attracted by the T20 opportunities, and outside of England, India and Australia it potentially highlights what your future may look like.

“What you get is you get a lot of young, energetic players playing Test cricket but the quality and the experience is not there to compete.

“Test cricket is the ultimate test of your mental and physical skills. There’s nowhere to hide.

“If you can’t play the short ball, you’re going to get exposed.

He also said: “It’s less entertainment, more a test of all your capabilities. Ultimately the challenge for the world game is to establish what that future looks like.”

Can Test cricket be preserved?

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