Published: Jun 29, 2015, 11:02 PM (IST)
Edited: Jun 29, 2015, 11:19 PM (IST)
Adelaide Oval is set to host the first day-night Test, to be held between Australia and New Zealand, in a finalised schedule of a three-Test series from November 5 to December 1. The Adelaide Test will be the third of this series; the Test match days are from November 27 to December 1.
The idea of day-night Tests had been floating for the last few years, but uncertainty and apprehension about its feasibility, with doubts over the visibility of the pink ball manufactured for this type of event, prevented this from being discussed with optimism by players. Day-night cricket in the long form was tested in a few pockets of the cricketing world; consensus on it had not been reached. READ: International Cricket Council recommends day-night Test matches
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) players’ association chief Heath Mills has revealed, as reported by cricket.com.au, the thumbs up for this event was given by their players after considering the longer-term benefit of cricketing ties with Australia, a country they haven’t played much with since late 2011. There were ‘nervous’ nods by the players due to a variety of factors, including the perceived hiccups due to this change in the familiar format.
“It’s fair to say our players are nervous about the day-night Test. It’s uncharted territory and because of that there will be uncertainty and apprehension,” Mills said. “However, whilst the players have reservations about the concept, they can see the bigger picture in the new agreement, and the greater good it brings to all levels of the game.” READ: New Zealand cricketers not willing to play day-night Test cricket
The NZC chief David White, however, confirmed his approval on the experiment. “Since the first Test in 1877 there have been numerous changes to the laws and rules in an effort to ensure the game remains relevant – and this is another. As administrators we owe it to the game to keep exploring ways of moving forward,” he said.
But this change suits the television broadcasters and spectators interested in cricket well, for the consumption of Tests could take place after work hours, a probability that is likely to boost television ratings. Both teams are scheduled to participate in two separate day-night practise matches to familiarise themselves with the concept, before taking the field in Adelaide.
“We’ll make sure that the players from both teams are well prepared. We’re working really closely with New Zealand Cricket in giving them the right tour matches and preparation before the ultimate day-night Test, which is the last of the series. And similarly with our players,” James Sutherland, head of Cricket Australia, said. READ: Australia to trial day-night matches in First-Class cricket
The coach of Australia’s national team, Darren Lehmann, expressed optimism on the decision. “Recommendations to the ICC committee were to make sure we are pushing the boundaries if you like and trying to get day-night Test matches, evening Test matches, to try and get people coming to watch it in different parts of the world in different countries, and versus different countries. We think it’s a really important way to go and only time will tell if it’s right or it’s wrong, end of the day we’ve got to give it a crack and I think it’s important for the game.
“It’s very special for everyone involved, players, staff, everyone at CA, and New Zealand Cricket so it’s going to be a really interesting time. Looking forward to what the challenges the ball brings for example and how it reacts on the pitch. I’m sure it’s going to be okay.”
