Why the 50-over format still matters in cricket

Since the rise of Twenty20 cricket, both Tests and One-Day Internationals have faced challenges. While Tests have reaffirmed their place, focus now turns to the 50-over format.

Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has raised concerns over the future of One-Day International (ODI) cricket, warning that the 50-over format could face a slow decline after the 2027 World Cup.

With the rise of T20 leagues worldwide and the enduring appeal of Test cricket, Ashwin believes that ODIs are steadily losing their relevance. 

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said he was unsure about the future of ODIs beyond the 2027 World Cup and admitted to being worried about it.

What the future holds for ODI

Is it going to be the end of ODIs? It doesn’t look like it.

The recent series between India and New Zealand has borne testament to the fact that the format has not lost its sheen among fans and players. Rajkot, which hosted the second of the three-match series, saw a sell-out crowd of 28,000. With both sides having won a game each, the series decider will be played at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on January 18.

Ashwin also highlighted the importance of icons like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Their participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy boosted viewership.

Role of superstars in keeping sport alive

Ashwin explained that while sport is bigger than individuals, star players are sometimes needed to make the game relevant. He also noted that the Vijay Hazare Trophy is a domestic tournament that is not widely followed, but the presence of senior players drew attention to it.

At the same time, Ashwin raised the question of what would happen to ODIs once such players stop playing the format. While every sport thrives on superstars keeping fan interest alive, the next generation will eventually carry the baton to keep the format going.

Record attendance

The 2023 ODI World Cup broke records for in-stadium attendance and broadcast viewership, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and its broadcast partner Disney Star.

A total of 1,250,307 spectators watched the 48 matches played in India, surpassing the previous record of 1,016,420 spectators during the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. The 2019 World Cup in England stands third with 752,000 spectators.

Linear television viewership in India crossed half a billion, with 518 million viewers tuning in for the World Cup across the six weeks of the tournament.

Why the 50-over format is important

The rise of several franchise-based Twenty20 leagues has put immense pressure on players to carefully choose their preferences in order to prolong their careers. But the 50-over format bridges the vast gulf between Twenty20 and Test cricket.

While the shortest format gives licence to go for the kill from the start, Test cricket is all about patience, building an innings, and strengthening defence. The 50-over format provides players the opportunity to develop both qualities and learn the art of building an innings.

For bowlers, the format demands adaptability, as lengths and strategies vary according to the situation. It is not only at the international level that the 50-over format plays a key role, but also on the domestic circuit. Players shaped in the 50-over format often have the ability to perform across all three formats.

Transition over the years

When the 50-over format came into existence, it brought a new pace and excitement for spectators. From whites and red balls to coloured clothing, white balls and matches under lights, ODIs have produced some unforgettable moments in the history of the game.

While the number of ODI matches has reduced in the current calendar, the format continues to hold relevance when given context and importance. The rise of T20 leagues and the demands of Test cricket have posed challenges, but if governing bodies treat the format with care, ODIs can continue to thrive.

The recent India–New Zealand series and the numbers from the 2023 World Cup suggest that the format is not losing its sheen and can maintain its stature in the years to come.