We have been seeing a lot of test matches being played on flat tracks off late. Take for example the 2 nd test played between India and New Zealand. It was a very flat pitch which played a pivotal role in India ensuring a draw. Quoting Vettori " This pitch would have lasted another 5-6 days. It was so flat.' Why does New Zealand do this when the whole world knows that the only chance it beating India is on a fast track.
Cricket administrators have an unhealthy obsession these days about making matches last five days. Television pays for cricket and TV bosses want every commercial break they can get. But if it starts in the way of producing interesting cricket, it would be self-defeating. Such cricket will only turn people away from Tests. There have been too many pitches like this in the last couple of months. It’s killing Test cricket.
