I started watching cricket when Brian Lara came into his own. I love watching the West Indies play cricket. I know nothing of the intricate nuances of the game, but can appreciate professionalism and dedication when I see it.
As a British woman who has lived here for over 50 years, I think I have a fairly good idea of what the average Trinidadian’s work ethic, has become. Yes, work ethic. And this is why I don’t think we should abandon the long aspect of the game. It takes commitment and hard work to excel in that format. It builds character. It takes patience. It takes skill.
The short format does not require that commitment. Tests are called that for a reason, they test you: your staying power, your longevity, your willingness to go that extra mile. T20 is over in a heartbeat. Yes it takes skill, but it certainly doesn’t take the effort that a test requires.
I thoroughly enjoy the short games, they are very entertaining. It is said that everyone today wants everything instantly, and that’s what the short game provides, in spades. But are our young players sacrificing brevity for quality? As with all things in life, to really succeed we need to be pushed...to be pushed to endure.
Only a test can provide that game and produce that professional. A patient, thinking, intelligent professional.
Ann Murphy