IPL's Growing Popularity Increases Threat to Tests

As the IPL and other leagues continue to grow, concerns increase about Test cricket. It's not strictly this versus that, but the success of one raises red flags for the other. Market indications suggest red-ball cricket is deeply in red—it doesn't make commercial sense.

- Amrit Mathur

If there was an election, with T20 and Tests as rival candidates, the latter would lose its deposit. The verdict of fans is clear, and critics, who love the tradition and romance of 5-day contests, are in a tiny minority.

The players used to consider Tests as the ultimate challenge and honor. They realized Test performances had lasting impact, brought respect and created a legacy. Compared to that, T20 scores are yesterday's headlines, which are quickly forgotten.

But the needle has shifted, and findings of the World Cricketers Association, based on extensive survey, tell a different story. An overwhelming majority of professional players across the world say they love Tests but love T20 cricket a little more. T20 cricket pays better, takes less time and, from a skill and hard work standpoint, is relatively easy. With better rewards and less work, T20 now is the obvious go-to option.

While players are resetting their preferences, cricket fans are clear about what they want. People love the 'package' of dance and music that surrounds T20's steroid-laced cricket. Also, with time such a scarce commodity, the shorter format is the perfect lifestyle/entertainment product that is consumed on-the-go.