India's mauling will deepen crisis of Test cricket: Boycott
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Former captain Geoffrey Boycott feels England's hammering of a financially powerful Indian team might leave spectators disillusioned and deepen the problems of Test cricket.
"I am thrilled and delighted by England's performances. But it is a shame that they have risen to No 1 in an era when other countries' Test teams are declining," Boycott said.
"England can play and beat what is put in front of them. It's not their fault that others are failing to match their high standards. But the timing is unfortunate for two reasons.
"First, because testing yourselves against powerful opposition is more fun than lording it over inadequate rivals. Secondly, every hammering that England inflict on this feeble Indian side is deepening the problems of the world game."
He felt the game's future and India's performance is inter-linked. "India's financial might is the biggest thing cricket has going for it, from a business point of view, and everyone will suffer if their spectators become disillusioned.
"India are the paymasters of cricket. Every time their board auctions a TV rights package, at least five broadcasters bid. And those broadcasters provide vital funding for other countries when India tour abroad. So if India sneezes, the whole world catches a cold," he wrote in 'Daily Telegraph'.
Boycott felt the rise of T20 coupled with the political and economical scenario is pushing Test cricket to the brink of extinction.
"When you look at the sort of cricket most teams are playing, and the vast acres of empty seats, you have to say that the game is in crisis," the 70-year-old cricketer wrote.
"This decline in Test attendances has been accelerated by the rise of T20. Young players see the riches on offer. Then you have the local difficulties in various parts of the world. Nobody will tour Pakistan because of terror threat, Zimbabwe has been racked by political strife, and Kumar Sangakkarra spoke of the financial irregularities afflicting Sri Lanka," he said.
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