Ex-Pak paceman Aaqib Javed says PCB should try Day-Night Tests in UAE

Former Pakistan fast bowler and current coach of the UAE team Aaqib Javed, who is an enthusiastic proponent of the Test format, has said that he thinks the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should try Day-Night Tests in the UAE.

Javed, who has been worried about the decline in Test cricket's popularity over the last few years, said that without a doubt the long format of cricket is losing its charm.

According to PakPassion.net, Javed said that hardly anyone comes to watch Test games and one really cannot blame people, as they are busy during the day at their jobs etc. and to expect them to take five days out of their day to come and watch Test cricket is really asking too much.

Javed said that although Test is a much-cherished form of cricket but it needs a change.

With the introduction of the pink ball that lead to the advent of Day-Night Test cricket there is a promise of greater audience attendance but Javed is not convinced that a pink ball alone would answer the issue.

Javed said that from what he heard, there are some issues with the sighting of the pink ball so that alone is not the answer, adding that the real issue is the quality and excitement that could be brought into the long form of cricket.

Javed said that he would be equally happy with Test Cricket being played with coloured clothing and white balls and it would make Tests exciting.

He further added that Pakistan Test matches need audiences, which have sadly been missing in the last few series played in the UAE.

Javed said that there is of course support and the introduction of Day-Night Test cricket might well bring more people to watch this form of Cricket, which will be great for Pakistani cricketers.