Rahul Dravid explains decline in Test viewership; says Day-Night Test will generate crowd

Test cricket's viewership in India is at a decline. The crowds at a five-day game is not the same as compared to limited-overs and IPL matches in the country. While speaking to a leading daily, former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid explained the reasons for the decline of viewership in Test cricket. He also explained the potential prospects of ‘Day-Night’ Test matches.

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Rahul Dravid explains fall in viewership for Test matches

Rahul Dravid was of the opinion that basic facilities in cricket grounds should be improved to make way for larger audiences. Taking into account the recently concluded Test match in Pune against South Africa (where the crowd complained about the lack of facilities), Dravid said that the improvement of basic needs can be a big draw for the game. He also added that people have more access to HD television and mobile streaming devices these days in comparison to the early 2000s where Test cricket received higher attendance.

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He emphasised the need for a Test cricket calendar in India just like there is one in countries like England and Australia. He cited the examples of Boxing Day Tests in Australia and July Tests at Lord’s in England where audiences plan to visit the stadium months in advance. Rahul Dravid also expressed his excitement about the upcoming ‘pink ball’ Test match between India and Bangladesh. He was confident that Day-Night Test cricket can generate big crowds to the stadiums once again.

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Team India, who won the first Test by an innings and 130 runs, will now face Bangladesh in a historic day-night Test match. The upcoming ‘pink ball’ contest at the Eden Gardens is scheduled to start from November 22. 

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