Cricket SA must strike while Test iron is hot to maximise success

"IT'S a good job Test cricket is played over five days, isn't it?

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

These were the words of England captain Ben Stokes after his team beat India after a thrilling run-chase at Headingley this week.

Stokes had even more reason to smile after he asked India to bat on Day 1, and then watched how the visitors raced to 430/3.

In another era, Stokes' decision may have placed him alongside Nasser 'Insane' Hussain's decision to insert Australia on the opening day of the Ashes back in 2002.

But the red-ball game has been revolutionised over the last few years.

While England's 'Bazball' tactics have undoubtedly brought a refreshing element to a sport that has been "on its last legs" for almost three decades, the expansion of T20 cricket has also played its part.

Detractors may complain that batters no longer have the defensive techniques to combat the new ball.