England’s show bad for Tests’ future: Boycott

Geoffrey Boycott reckoned that England's dominant display in the series could prove detrimental to the long-term health of Test cricket. "I am thrilled and delighted by England's performances. But it is a shame that they have risen to No 1 in an era when other countries' Test teams are declining," Boycott wrote in the Telegraph. "England can play and beat what is put in front of them. It's not their fault that others are failing to match their high standards. But the timing is unfortunate for two reasons. First, because testing yourselves against powerful opposition is more fun than lording it over inadequate rivals. Secondly, every hammering that England inflict on this feeble Indian side is deepening the problems of the world game."

According to the former England opener, the game's future and India's performance are inter-linked. "India's financial might is the biggest thing cricket has going for it, from a business point of view, and everyone will suffer if their spectators become disillusioned. India are the paymasters of cricket. Every time their board auctions a TV rights package, at least five broadcasters bid. And those broadcasters provide vital funding for other countries when India tour abroad. So if India sneezes, the whole world catches a cold."

Boycott was pessimistic about Test cricket's survival in its current form. "Gautam Gambhir receives £1.5 million for just over a month's work. On a week-by-week basis, that makes him better paid than a Premier League footballer. Is it any wonder that the Indians have looked tired and jaded on this tour? The series promised to be a thriller but ended up further damaging the brand of Test cricket."

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