Ian Chappell Criticizes 'Abysmal' Pace of Play in Test Cricket

He questioned why batters are allowed to discuss matters mid-pitch without penalty, why etiquette regarding being in the stance at the crease when the bowler is ready to deliver is not enforced, and why drinks are allowed at times outside regular breaks.

Australian cricket legend Ian Chappell has expressed concern about the slow pace of play in Test cricket, attributing it to various factors that need addressing. Chappell, in a column for ESPNcricinfo, pointed out issues such as batters meeting mid-pitch during overs, frequent glove changes, unnecessary replays for boundary decisions, and the impact of the Decision Review System (DRS) on the game's speed.

He questioned why batters are allowed to discuss matters mid-pitch without penalty, why etiquette regarding being in the stance at the crease when the bowler is ready to deliver is not enforced, and why drinks are allowed at times outside regular breaks. Chappell also criticized the growing number of tactical reviews, stating that replays take too much time and encourage arguing with umpires.

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Chappell raised concerns about players charging at umpires while appealing, which he considers a heinous behavior that should be subject to penalty. He also questioned the fairness of batters changing their stance until the last moment, emphasizing that fairness should be a consideration when framing cricket's laws.

The cricketing legend suggested that administrators need to take more initiative to improve the pace of play in Test cricket, acknowledging the efforts of players like Ben Stokes to enhance the entertainment quotient but expressing concern that these efforts are being undermined.

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(With Agency Inputs)

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