John Buchanan Urges ICC to Make Smart Decisions Under Jay Shah's Leadership

Former Australia head coach John Buchanan advised the ICC, soon to be led by Jay Shah, to take thoughtful long-term decisions for cricket's future. Emphasizing the importance of Test cricket, Buchanan highlighted concerns over the rise of T20 leagues and the need to maintain the relevance of ODI cricket.

Former Australia head coach John Buchanan has called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to take thoughtful long-term decisions for the future of cricket, particularly as it gears up for new leadership under BCCI secretary Jay Shah from December 1. Shah, age 35, will be the youngest to lead the global governing body.

Buchanan, who achieved record-successful runs with Australia, stressed the need to address the growing number of T20 leagues and their impact on the sport. 'The ICC must make very, very good long-term decisions for the game,' Buchanan told PTI at a multi-sport program launch. He emphasized that Test cricket is the foundational format and maintaining its integrity is crucial.

The former coach also highlighted the importance of the ODI format in bridging Test and T20 cricket. 'We need the transition game, which is the one-day game,' he said. Buchanan added that players should not be blamed for seeking lucrative opportunities in various leagues, as they have finite career lengths. He also anticipates a transitional phase for the Australian Test side post the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

(With inputs from agencies.)