Gautam Gambhir Expresses Concern Over ODI Cricket's Future

Former Indian cricketer and commentator Gautam Gambhir has expressed his concerns over the future of fifty-over-game. In an interview with Sportskeeda, Gambhir said young cricketers are more inclined towards the shorter format of the game, soon they will refuse to sign contracts with boards for Onedayers. "Cricketers are more interested in T20 cricket and will refuse to sign the central contracts. ODI format will be the first one to go out," the former Indian opener said.

In view of rapidly decreasing people's interest in the 50-over matches, Gambhir said the International Cricket Council needs to take some important steps to save the game. One-day matches should only be scheduled a year ahead of the One Day World Cup, Gambhir urged the international cricket governing body.

"ICC will have to take important decisions to save the fifty-over format. I would suggest to play one-day games just one year before the World Cup. Let the T20Is and Test cricket happen for a long duration. You will only see good players playing red-ball cricket. For me, the ODI World Cup shouldn't be discontinued," he added.

Gambhir, who was part of the 2007 and 2011 World Cup winning teams is known for keeping his points bluntly, had also backed Rahul Dravid to continue as the head coach for team India. He had urged the BCCI to extend Dravid's tenure which had ended with completion of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. "Team India performed really well in the ICC Cricket World Cup under Rahul Dravid's guidance. Winning 10 matches straight is not a small thing, so his contract should be renewed," Gambhir had said earlier.