News of a planned tour to England by India this summer is excellent. But even better is the plan to include a test match.
Tests are the one area where women’s cricket has taken backward steps; they have become an endangered species. Past generations of players could enjoy a decent exposure to the multi-day game. Recent years have seen this ultimate examination of a cricketer’s skill reduced lamentably.
India haven’t enjoyed the experience since they played South Africa seven years ago; England have waited two years since meeting Australia.
For some of us the only proper cricket is played in white apparel with a red ball. As we await the landing of an even more abbreviated form, the Hundred, it’s a blessed relief to hear of a counter-move.
It will enable two fine teams to meet in extended combat, where endurance and resolve will matter as much as yet another slog to cow corner. Both have batting strong enough to build large scores; bowlers will have to bring every resource to bear.
Details are still to be revealed, but we expect to see the test fitting in to a schedule of T20s and ODIs.
Roll on summer!
