Sachin Tendulkar bats in favour of Day-Night Tests in India

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar has weighed in with his opinion on India playing their maiden Day-Night Test against Bangladesh in Kolkata. Sachin believes that despite some challenges which will need to be overcome, this is a step in the right direction for Indian cricket.

The Test match against Bangladesh will be played during the end of November, which is the onset of the winter season in India. This has led to people questioning the role of the dew factor during the evening session of the match. Sachin too believes that overcoming it will be the biggest challenge for the organizers. Speaking to PTI, he said:

“As long as dew does not become a factor, it is a good move but if dew is going to be a factor then seamers, as well as spinners, are going to find it challenging. Because once the ball gets wet, neither seamers can do much nor the spinners. So in that way, bowlers will be put under the test. But if there is no dew, then surely it is a good addition.”

Dew has always been a major factor in day-night contests at Eden Gardens and Sachin believes it will again play a big role in the match against Bangladesh.

“I think the dew factor will play a big role over here. We need to figure out how much dew is there. The dew will determine, to what extent both teams are competing. The conditions shouldn’t hinder anything (competitiveness).”

Sachin though backed new BCCI President Sourav Ganguly and his stance that day-night Test matches would bring crowds to the stadiums.

“There are two ways to look at it. One aspect would be from the public point of view. It is a nice concept as people would be able to watch a Day/Night Test after their working hours. People can come in the evening and enjoy the game.”

Sachin also had some sound advice for the players on how to prepare for the pink ball. So far, the pink ball has shown some distinct characteristics when compared to the red cherry. The players may well find the initial adjustment to the change difficult.

“The batsmen will need to practice with different balls at the nets. A new pink ball, a 20-over pink ball and a 50-over pink ball and an 80-over ball. See how differently a new, semi-new and old ball behaves. Accordingly, prepare your strategy. The India boys should also depend on word of mouth feedback from all those who played Duleep Trophy and they would have few things to share.”