MCC Cricket Committee discusses slow over rate and 'shot clock'
The MCC World Cricket Committee has expressed its concerns over the slow over rate across the different formats of the game. While the ICC is keeping tabs on the over rates, the committee members went ahead and discussed the idea of monitoring the over rate and also introducing a shot clock. Here is more on the same.
Harsher punishment for slow over rate
The shot clock will help keep the over rate in check and the committee has recommended to implement harsher penalties for slow over rates. In this meeting, however, the introduction of 4-day Test wasn't discussed. The members of the committee including the likes of Sourav Ganguly and Ricky Ponting voiced their opinions on various subjects.
Ganguly wants to discuss D/N Test cricket with the BCCI
Former India skipper Sourav Ganguly highlighted that the BCCI did a U-turn after initially agreeing to playing day-night Test cricket. Ganguly opined that both the board and players have resisted the move to play Tests at night. MCC cannot enforce the Indian board to accept day-night Test format, as Dada stated they will have to wait for everyone to accept it.
Ponting bats for shot clock
Ponting said that the bowler and fielders have to get back to their positions quickly post an over in order to save time. When a new batsman comes to the crease, the bowling side should be ready before hand. The former Aussie skipper batted for the shot clock which revolves around dead time of the game.
Responsibility of skipper to get the field ready
There could be penalties for the fielding side for wasting time. One feels that the captains will then be more alert setting things right. Ponting also cited it's the responsibility of the skipper to make his team ready within an appropriate amount of time.
