Brendon McCullum believes 50-over cricket faces an uncertain future as the Twenty20 format becomes increasingly popular.
New Zealand wicketkeeper says 50-over format under threat
Brendon McCullum believes 50-over cricket faces an uncertain future as the Twenty20 format becomes increasingly popular.
The New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman insists Test cricket is not under threat from the newest form of the game.
But he does predict trouble ahead for the 50-overs-a-side game, despite it remaining the chosen format for the International Cricket Council's flagship World Cup competition.
"It's a dangerous time for the 50-over format," McCullum told the
Wisden Cricketer.
"At the moment T20 cricket has captivated a lot of people.
"Test cricket will always stay - there're too many traditionalists, and it is considered the cream of the crop for most cricketers.
"One-day cricket is in danger."
Drawback
McCullum has adapted perfectly to Twenty20 cricket since its inception, but has identified one possible drawback to the format.
The New Zealander feels the sprint may eventually deprive the longer formats of cricket the spectacle of true pace, believing fast bowlers may be reluctant to endure the physical toll of five days or even 50 overs if they have a less demanding option.
"The one concern I do have is that genuine fast bowlers around the world will look at the option of four-overs-a-game two or three times a week versus the hard graft of Test match and one-day cricket and decide that four overs is their lot," he said.
"I'm talking about the 150-160 kph bowlers. That would be a shame, because I think there's something incredible about watching raw pace bowl a long spell in a Test."
