ODIs Losing Their Sheen

The cricket world might see a DRAMATIC REDUCTION OF ODI MATCHES and an increase of T20 contests. On the lines of the ODI matches, one can’t rule out a T20 tri-series even though there could be resistance from the ICC.

- Vijay Lokapally

The buzz is missing and understandably so.When the first ball was bowled in the first ever ODI in Melbourne in 1971, an idea was born to bring in some entertainment for the spectators. The Australia-England Test had been washed out and the authorities were keen to ensure that fans did not return home disappointed.

THE ADVENT OF ODIS signalled a revolutionary change in the way the game was to be conducted and administered. Four years down the line, the successful organisation of the 1975 World Cup in England was a confirmation that limited-overs cricket had come to stay.

ODI was a different concept and also entertaining because it was result oriented. Bilateral ODI series became an essential part of a cricket tour and also money spinning instruments for administrators. It was thus hardly surprising when the plan to expand the entertainment segment gave birth to the first ever tri-series in 1979-80.

It was hugely popular. Even those who advocated the essence of five-day cricket came to accept that the ODI was a welcome addition and the tri-series, first held in Australia, was a roaring success.

Much of the credit ought to go to Kerry Packer and his World Series Cricket, which involved the cream of world cricket. It was termed rebel cricket but came to be adopted as the mainstream one. Such was the glamour and quality that marked the venture.