'Anyone who thinks T20 is a better game than the 50-over game is off their rocker', says Ian Chappell

Former Australia captain Ian Chappell has expressed concerns over the future of the 50-over format due to the growing emphasis on T20 cricket by administrators. The Chappell-Hadlee Trophy, which has traditionally been contested in ODIs between Australia and New Zealand since 2004, will now be played in T20Is for the first time. Chappell’s comments come ahead of the upcoming series between Australia and New Zealand, starting in Wellington on Wednesday.

Chappell has criticized the administrators for prioritizing T20 cricket over the 50-over format, stating, “They certainly have T20 cricket at the top of the pole, and there’s more and more T20 cricket being played and less and less 50-over cricket. Anyone who thinks T20 is a better game than the 50-over game is off their rocker.”

The former captain also holds concerns about the potential decline in popularity of the 50-over format, expressing skepticism about whether it can regain the same level of interest it once held. He also questioned the future importance of the World Cup in the absence of substantial matches played by top players.

Chappell also highlighted the threat posed by the increasing popularity of T20 and T10 cricket, suggesting that the focus on shorter formats may lead to the emergence of even shorter versions of the game if spectator interest wanes. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that players feel they have earned their place on the field, regardless of the format of the game.

The shift of the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy to T20Is and Chappell’s concerns about the future of the 50-over format reflect a broader debate within the cricketing community. With T20 cricket gaining popularity and the emergence of even shorter formats, the future of traditional formats like ODIs has come under scrutiny.

Chappell’s remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of cricket formats and raise important questions about the balance between tradition and innovation in the sport. As the cricketing landscape continues to evolve, the future of the 50-over format and its place alongside shorter versions of the game remains a topic of significant discussion among players, administrators, and fans alike.