ICC acknowledges and praises the enduring appeal of Test cricket

ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat has acknowledged and praised the enduring appeal of Test cricket as 2010 draws to a close with South Africa and India battling for the number-one position in the Reliance Mobile ICC Test Championship rankings and Australia taking on England in another enthralling Ashes Test series.

Mr Lorgat said: “These are iconic series which clearly capture the imagination and interest of cricket lovers across the world. Everyone is talking Test cricket and the demand for tickets, particularly in Melbourne, it is very impressive.

“I was fortunate to be in Adelaide a few weeks ago when they recorded their biggest attendance since the Bodyline series in 1932-33. Cricket Australia is now expecting crowds of more than 90,000 to watch the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. In South Africa I am delighted to hear so many people excited and following the respective Test series.

“It is pleasing to note the keen and growing interest at a time when we are formulating a Test League that will produce a Test champion every four years. Imagine the interest and contest that would unfold as teams vie for a top four place to qualify for the play-offs.

“Throughout the year we have seen some astonishing individual performances from players such as Muttiah Muralidaran claiming his 800th Test wicket, Chris Gayle’s triple-hundred and Jacques Kallis’s maiden double-century, and also some extremely thrilling Test matches.

“Only Test cricket can produce a true test of courage, endurance and skill, the see-saw rivalry in the Ashes, Tendulkar’s personal milestones and legends of the game. Test match cricket will always remain the pinnacle of the international game.