Two-Test series should be put on the back burner to show importance of Test cricket: Andrew McDonald

Andrew McDonald. (Photo by Brett Hemmings CA/Cricket Australia/Getty Images)

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald expressed that all Test series need to have a minimum of three fixtures to highlight the importance of the longest format. The statements come following the dramatic Ashes series which concluded 2-2.

While the Aussies retained the urn, England’s magnificent comeback saw them win two of the final three fixtures.

The Ashes is played over five matches, while the Border-Gavaskar Trophy too will expand to a five-match series from the 2024-25 edition.

However, it is worth noting that certain bilateral series in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) includes teams playing mere two Test matches. On that note, Australia coach McDonald opined on having at least three fixtures in a series, so as to show a commitment to the Test format.

“I’d encourage that the minimum number of Tests against a nation should be three. I think two-Test-match series should be put on the back burner and that would show the importance of Test cricket to every nation if it was a minimum of three Test matches,” McDonald was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

People lining up the gate with the buzz, that’s really important for the landscape of Test cricket: Andrew McDonald

The recently concluded Ashe saw fans turning up in huge numbers to the venues to support their respective teams. Taking heed of the crowd support, the Aussie coach further explained that the buzz at the venue is what helps highlight the importance of the format.

“You love seeing people line up the gates, and you get to the ground in the morning and there’s just a murmur, there’s a buzz. And they’re keen to go and watch a Test match. To me, that’s really important for the landscape of Test-match cricket,” explained McDonald.

“It (Ashes 2023) was exciting, and there were a lot of English supporters who said well done and congratulations, so I think it captivated a nation. I think it captivated our nation as well, and I think that’s a real positive thing for Test cricket,” he added.