Daijiworld Media Network- London
London, Aug 3: Former England cricket captain and batting legend Graham Gooch has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to step in and ensure the survival of Test cricket by supporting financially weaker nations and preventing the format from being monopolized by just three teams — India, England, and Australia.
Speaking to PTI during the final Test between India and England, Gooch expressed concern that while the current five-match series had provided an exhilarating boost to the format, the continued neglect of teams like South Africa, New Zealand, and West Indies could threaten the future of red-ball cricket. According to him, while the "big three" have the resources and viewership to support extended Test series, others are increasingly limited to two or three-match contests, which dilutes the quality and exposure of the sport.
Gooch, who remains one of England’s top Test run-scorers, noted that the ongoing series had everything the sport needed — intense competition, dramatic moments, high-quality batting and bowling performances, and even on-field tension that added to the viewing spectacle. He said such contests are crucial for reviving interest in Test cricket, especially in an era where franchise-based formats are dominant. He praised the level of passion shown by both teams and said that the tension, competitiveness, and emotional moments on the field reflected how much the format still meant to players.
The former opener lauded the Indian team’s performance in the series, particularly highlighting the transition phase following the retirement of veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Gooch remarked that the team looked well-settled under new captain Shubman Gill, whom he described as a composed and technically sound batsman. He was impressed by Gill’s leadership and consistency with the bat, pointing out that the youngster’s performance — with over 750 runs in the series — answered all doubts regarding his ability to succeed in challenging overseas conditions.
Gooch also discussed the impact of Ben Stokes’ absence in the final Test, saying that England’s bowling attack struggled in the absence of their charismatic all-rounder. He emphasized that Stokes had been the backbone of the side, not just as a batsman but as a bowler who could deliver long, effective spells. He warned that England’s heavy reliance on Stokes exposed a lack of depth in their current bowling lineup, especially when the team was forced to play with only four frontline bowlers.
Drawing comparisons between Stokes and India’s Mohammed Siraj, Gooch said both players showed remarkable dedication and spirit. He admired Siraj’s energy and willingness to bowl long spells with full intensity, and said Stokes displayed a similar mentality, always giving his all on the field. According to him, players like them embody the true spirit of Test cricket.
In conclusion, Gooch reiterated that it is high time for the ICC to act decisively to protect Test cricket as a global format. He said that if countries outside the big three continue to get sidelined, there will eventually be no one left for them to play against, leading to stagnation. Stressing the importance of inclusivity and long-term vision, Gooch called on cricket’s global administrators to ensure that the charm and competitiveness of Test cricket are preserved across all nations.