Getting an ODI has more than compensated for Test loss: Ayub

Test matches might be the ultimate 'test' for a cricketer but for organizers, it's always a blessing in disguise if the five-day game is replaced by an ODI believes former India spinner and current Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) president Arshad Ayub.
Hyderabad were scheduled to host the Test match during the now-truncated West Indies series and the BCCI has compensated HCA with an ODI match against Sri Lanka.
"We were preparing for it (West Indies Test) but then it got cancelled and we got this match. So we got compensated for this match. Normally, Test match is a revenue loss but if you look at the ODI, it is a revenue gainer. So that way it was a gain rather than a loss," Ayub, who has played 13 Tests and 32 ODIs for India between 1987 and 1990 told PTI during an interaction.

With just a day left for the third ODI to kickstart, Ayub has re-affirmed that the HCA has done its bit to ensure that Uppal offers the best for the two teams and the audience.
"Our job is to make sure that they get the best of our facilities and we provide them that as per international standards. Basically, we want them to be happy in regards o the pitch and the ground conditions. The dressing-room facility and the practice arena, all this has been taken care," said the former of-break bowler.
One of the elite cricket grounds in India and Asia, Uppal once again promises a lively game.

Ayub, 56, though hinted that the track will offer more assistance to the bastman.

"Basically, it is a ODI match so it will certainly be a lively track. But having said that, an ODI pitch is one where the bastman has not much difficulty negotiating," he said.
Holding office for a second term post his 2010-12 tenure, Ayub is once again trying to get Hyderabad players noticed on the national scene.
"Now we are on the verge of a transition. Once I took over, I have introduced certain structural changes like the local league format. We are starting an academy and all these changes will certainly bring a change. We have got the potential, only thing is that the potential has to be converted into international performances.

"So that these players can get into Indian sides. We are really hoping that in a few years to come we will have more representation from Hyderabad," Ayub sounded positive.