ODI cricket has reached a critical juncture now and the success or failure of Champions Trophy 2009 will determine its future. The cricketing world is abuzz about ‘Saving ODI’ Cricket or scrapping it off. Plenty of attractive ideas have been invoked by several former and current players including the likes of Sachin Tendulkar.
This edition of Champions Trophy is perhaps the best edition according to format. It is short, sweet and would provide plenty of high-voltage contests due to the participation of all the strong teams. A mediocre West Indies would remain as an aberration, however most of the matches promise high-octane contests.
This is the first ICC tournament after a draggy World Cup at the Caribbean in 2007. The criticisms raised from that tournament could be decisive in the growth of ODI’s.
If the Champions Trophy turns out as a failure, then ICC would be pondering on different ideas to improve ODI Cricket. And, if it turns out as a success, then also ICC would have to take some measures to make this attractive, as at present, several bi-lateral series are being played in front of fewer crowds. So this Champion’s Trophy would be either give some extra-time for the ODI’s or it will mark its demise.
Tags: Champions Trophy, Cricket
