Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has added another remarkable achievement to his illustrious career by becoming the first bowler to take 50 wickets in all three editions of the World Test Championship (WTC). Ashwin reached this milestone during Day 4 of the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, where he dismissed Shakib Al Hasan for just 9 runs. Ashwin, currently ranked the world’s top Test bowler, achieved this feat in only 10 matches. He now ranks second on the all-time WTC wicket-takers list, just behind Australia’s Nathan Lyon. In addition, Ashwin equalled former pacer Zaheer Khan’s record for the most wickets taken in India-Bangladesh Test matches, with both bowlers claiming 31 wickets each.
However, the match also reignited a debate about India’s Test venues, especially after Day 3 was delayed due to inadequate drainage facilities at Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium. This incident has prompted discussions on whether India should streamline its Test venues, similar to countries like Australia and England, which have fixed Test centres for international matches.
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Ashwin’s Take on India’s Test Venue Dilemma
Speaking after the match, Ashwin weighed in on this issue, offering thoughtful insights into both the advantages and challenges of India’s current approach to Test venues.
On one hand, Ashwin lauded the diversity of Test centres across India, seeing it as a way to nurture cricket talent in every corner of the country. “India is a vast nation,” he said. “Having so many Test centres has sparked a passion and urgency among players from different regions to represent the country. This setup allows cricketers from less prominent areas to compete at the highest level.”
Ashwin’s comment highlights a unique aspect of Indian cricket: the diversity and regional pride that fuel the sport. Much like India’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity, cricket’s reach across the nation has inspired young players from smaller towns and cities to pursue the dream of playing for India. The expansion of Test venues has democratized access to top-tier cricket, much in the same way that the rise of IPL has uncovered talent from lesser-known regions.
Ashwin also noted that hosting matches across a wider range of cities helps in building a fan base and fostering national pride. He believes that inclusivity is vital for growing the sport, and more Test centres enable greater representation from all parts of the country.
The Other Side: The Argument for Fewer, High-Quality Venues
However, Ashwin didn’t shy away from acknowledging the drawbacks of the current system. Referring specifically to the poor drainage facilities at Kanpur, he said, “Essential elements required to host a Test match were lacking in Kanpur.” The delay in play exposed the limitations of some venues, raising questions about their readiness to host international matches.
Ashwin cited the example of countries like Australia and England, which have established a more streamlined approach to hosting Test cricket. “In Australia, they only play India at five Test centres, and you won’t see us at the Manuka Oval in Canberra,
The argument for fewer, well-equipped Test venues comes from a desire for better facilities and improved pitch and ground conditions. A more centralized approach could also ensure that all Test venues meet international standards, avoiding delays and providing a more seamless experience for both players and fans.
In this context, India’s cricketing infrastructure faces a unique challenge: balancing the benefits of inclusivity and the need for high-quality facilities. As Ashwin mentioned, the inclusive model allows aspiring cricketers from all over the country to see a clear path to the national team. Yet, at the same time, consistent quality in facilities is essential for India to continue hosting world-class Test matches.
Looking Ahead: The Path Forward for Indian Cricket
India, with its large population and fervent cricket fan base, faces a complex decision. On one hand, the country can continue its current model, spreading Test matches across many venues and ensuring the sport reaches every region. On the other hand, the need for world-class infrastructure, like in Australia and England, might encourage the BCCI to focus on a few elite centres where international matches can be played without interruptions due to issues like drainage.
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Ultimately, Ashwin’s insights underscore the balancing act required in Indian cricket. Should India prioritize grassroots development and regional pride by hosting Test matches in more venues, or should it adopt a more streamlined approach with fewer, but better-equipped, Test centres?
Whatever the decision, one thing is clear: India’s love for cricket continues to grow, and players like Ashwin, with their historical achievements and thoughtful perspectives, are shaping the future of the game in the country. As the debate over venues continues, the goal remains the same – to keep India at the forefront of international cricket, both in terms of talent and infrastructure.
