Jonathan Agnew Declares England vs India Series the Most Exciting Since the 2005 Ashes!

This series between England and India has been thrilling—perhaps the best I’ve seen since the legendary Ashes of 2005. Winning in Australia in 2010-11 was memorable, but this series has showcased everything that makes Test cricket special: intensity, skill, and fierce competition.

It’s been as captivating as any Ashes series. Fans might wish that Gus Atkinson had scored a few more runs to tie the match, but regardless of the outcome, the nail-biting finish is great for Test cricket. The competitive spirit has made this series stand out.

You won’t see this level of rivalry in T20 or franchise cricket. There’s a noticeable difference in how much players value Test cricket and playing for their country.

This series has also broken records, with 7,187 runs scored—the highest in a five-match Test series. Interestingly, it’s only the second time in 20 years that every match in such a series has reached the final day. This remarkable statistic underscores the thrill and unpredictability of Test cricket.

Experts agree: if there are any cricket administrators still thinking about moving to four-day Tests, they need to reconsider. This series clearly demonstrates the depth and excitement that five-day matches can offer.

To add some context, cricket has evolved significantly over the years. In the early 2000s, Test matches often lacked the intensity we see now. The emergence of T20 cricket initially suggested a decline in Test match popularity, but this series challenges that narrative, proving that traditional formats still have immense allure.

Overall, the passion seen in this series reflects a broader trend—players and fans alike are rallying behind Test cricket, ensuring it remains a cherished part of the sport.

For further insights into the importance of Test cricket in today’s sports landscape, you can check a report by the ICC here.

Source link