Former Australia all-rounder Tom Moody has made a bold suggestion about the future of Test cricket, stating that the traditional five-day format could shift to four-day Tests in order to keep the longest format alive.
🧠 “Test Cricket Must Be Protected”
Moody stressed that the ICC must take proactive steps to safeguard Test cricket amid the rapid rise of franchise leagues around the world.
“I don’t want Test cricket to die. It’s the purest form of the game,” Moody said.
⏳ Why Four-Day Tests?
According to Moody:
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Four-day Tests could make the format more sustainable
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It may help smaller cricketing nations host more Test matches
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Scheduling would become easier in an era dominated by T20 leagues
However, he made it clear that this change would only work if strict discipline is enforced.
⚠️ Over Rate Is the Biggest Challenge
Moody warned that maintaining a proper over rate would be critical in four-day Tests.
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Teams must bowl the required number of overs each day
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Slow over rates could ruin the balance of the shorter Test format
🏟️ Franchise Cricket vs Test Cricket
The former cricketer also expressed concern over the growing influence of franchise cricket, which is pulling players away from the traditional game.
Moody believes that unless Test cricket adapts without losing its essence, it risks being overshadowed.
