Number of Tests in a series: 6, 5, 3, 2,......1?

[USofA]

There was a time when 6 test series were the norm. That changed to a 5 test series. Then eventually to a 3 test series.

But now slowly but steadily, things are changing again, to a 2 test "series". Given the direction test cricket is headed, are we going to see a 1 test "series" being the norm?

This notwithstanding the new Test Championship. Which the ICC don't want touch with a ten foot pole.

ODI's and T20I's pay the bills for almost all the boards. Given a choice, WI, SL, BD, heck even Pak. would not play any tests at all. NZ are moving their focus away from Tests and towards T20I's and ODI's. Not sure where SA stand on this. Which just leaves the Big3.

So, 1 Test "series" is the future?

 

[gazza619]

Yes it does seem to be heading in that direction. Though the big three may continue to play 3-5 test series against each other.

I personally dont see much difference between a 1 test or 2 test series. Competitive teams should play at least 3 tests.

 

[Nikhil_cric]

2 test series have been around for quite some time.

 

[ikky47]

I think PCB were the first board to start playing 2 match test series, correct me if I'm wrong?

 

[rudra]

Ind aus eng should play 5 test series among themselves.
SA vs big 3 should be 4 test.
Rest 3 or less.

 

[Amjid Javed]

3 tests should be standard for every series. No more of this 2 test non sense.

 

[AMSS]

Boards and broadcasters have a better feel for spectator interest when it comes to determining the length of a test series. They have hard data available to them and decisions are made based on them.

The problem is that there are people without access to such data who make contrary noise about tests being shortchanged. These are ex cricketers or journalists and, because of their exposure and influence, they succeed in stitching a narrative that viewing public still prefers the longest format.

 

[Ab Fan]

It should be 4-3-2. Five is non-sense. Most of those series are dull and dead rubber ones.

 

[ARK Rafay]

less than 3 matches shouldn't even be called a series