Virat Kohli's formula for Test backed by former cricketer Anil Kumble

Indian captain Virat Kohli’s idea that a maximum of 5 centres across country should host Test matches every year has resonated with former Indian spin wizard and coach Anil Kumble. Kohli put forth the idea after the third Test against South Africa in Ranchi, which was played in front of a sparse audience. Kohli said that returning to the same grounds would ensure a more loyal audience and help keep the Test form of cricket vibrant and alive.

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Kohli got Kumble's back

Anil Kumble said that Virat Kohli’s suggestion was a great way of promoting and popularising Tests. He said one way to popularise Test cricket was to get the scheduling right and ensure the correct venues with excellent facilities are chosen.
Kumble further said that in the past, the start of the Test season would happen in Delhi, and then Bangalore, Kolkata, and Mumbai would also get matches. He said that it is important to ensure that Test cricket is played at these centres to make sure the crowds come in. He added that during his time as an Indian coach, tests were played in 6 centres, and only the one played in Indore was played in front of packed stands. According to Kumble, the reason for a good turnout in Indore was because the venue was in the heart of the city.

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He also stressed that there was an urgent need for better facilities to improve the spectator experience. Another idea being floated around to popularise the sport form is to play day and night tests. While other teams have experimented with this, Team India has not played one yet. The idea has found support from new BCCI President Sourav Ganguly and Kumble.

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Kumble said that the day and night tests would draw in the crowds towards the latter half of the game. He said that the fans would love the idea of accessibility to be able to come in after work to watch the game and unwind. He said that correct timing and marketing of tests is crucial to have a new and larger fan base.

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