The future of ODI cricket has become an increasing topic of discussion in the modern game, with the format facing increasing competition from the popularity of T20 cricket and the enduring appeal of Test matches. Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has now offered a candid assessment of the state of 50-over cricket, admitting that he believes the format is in a very difficult position.
Karthik pointed out that ODI cricket is struggling to attract the same level of passion and attention that the other two formats currently enjoy. While discussing this topic he described the current situation in particularly clear terms.
Dinesh Karthik told why ODI cricket is on 'ventilator'
When Karthik was asked about the future of ODI cricket, he used an impressive comparison to clarify his assessment.
“If I had to put it briefly, I would say he is on a ventilator right now. It is in a very bad condition. I think people have got very easily attracted to T20 cricket and they love it,” Karthik said on Cricbuzz.
According to the former Indian cricketer, Test cricket maintains its niche audience due to its traditional status, while T20 cricket has increasingly attracted the attention of fans. However, he feels that ODI cricket is struggling to establish a common identity.
“Test cricket is the purest form of the game and there is some audience for it and two-three countries, especially Australia and England, are following it enthusiastically. India is probably almost there but I don't think there is any country that is following ODI cricket enthusiastically. In today's day and world it is neither here nor there, whereas the white ball situation is like that,” Karthik added.
Karthik questions the challenge presented by ODI cricket
Karthik also pointed to the conditions of modern ODI cricket as the reason behind his concerns. He feels that once the initial pace of the ball is gone, the game can become too comfortable for the batsmen.
“Once it stops swinging after the first five-six overs, it doesn't offer any challenge. So the batsman gets too easy on a flat pitch and it feels like an extended T20 game, which is also no fun,” Karthik clarified.
The former wicketkeeper also linked the issue to changing viewing habits in the social media age, where audiences are constantly exposed to shorter forms of entertainment.
Why did Karthik call bilateral series meaningless?
Karthik also expressed concern over the relevance of bilateral ODI series, arguing that the format needs to be made more exciting to retain the attention of modern audiences.
“I keep saying in this day and age of social media that we are in a world of social media where attention spans are very short, it is very, very difficult to stay focused for 8 hours a day. I think ODI cricket is struggling right now and bilateral series are certainly becoming very meaningless, so they have to find a way to make it more exciting and I don't know how they can do it,” The former cricketer added further.
Karthik also highlighted the importance of the ODI World Cup for the ICC, describing it as a major asset for the governing body. He raised the question of how much impact the collapse of the format would have on the tournament if ODI cricket continues to struggle. His comments add another voice to the ongoing debate over maintaining the relevance of the 50-over format given the rapidly evolving T20 landscape and the traditional importance of Test cricket.