Former England captains Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan have called for changes to the rules of Test cricket, arguing that modernizing certain aspects of the game could make it more competitive and fair.
Cook proposed giving captains more control over when a new ball can be taken. Under current laws, a new ball becomes available after 80 overs, but he suggested an option to take it any time after 30 overs.
“If the bowling side wants to take a new ball at, say, 160 overs, they should be able to,” Cook said, explaining that such flexibility would increase the chances of dismissing 20 wickets — the ultimate aim in Test matches.
Vaughan pushes for wider substitution rules
Meanwhile, Vaughan focused on substitutions, calling for reforms beyond wicketkeeping replacements. He cited India’s Rishabh Pant, who missed time in the field due to injury but still batted later in the match.
“It can’t be the case that you’re absent from the field for injury, and then you’re suddenly fine to bat,” Vaughan argued. “If a substitute is possible in wicketkeeping, why not in other cases too? Other sports allow it, so cricket should consider the same.”
Growing debate on Test cricket evolution
Substitute players in Test cricket are currently allowed only in cases of concussion or when a wicketkeeper is injured. Vaughan suggested that expanding the rules, under the supervision of an independent doctor, would ensure fairness and safeguard player welfare.
The proposals add to the ongoing debate about the future of Test cricket, as the game’s longest format adapts to modern challenges, including scheduling pressures, player workload, and the popularity of T20 leagues.
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