Guwahati's Test Dilemma: The Need for Permanent Test Centres

Guwahati's Barsapara Cricket Stadium is set to host its first Test match, sparking debates about the need for permanent Test centres in India. Ravichandran Ashwin highlights the importance of familiar pitches to provide home advantage, emphasizing that good quality, consistent pitches are crucial for competitive cricket.

In a bold call for structured cricket infrastructure, Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has advocated for permanent Test centres in India. His comments come ahead of Guwahati's Barsapara Cricket Stadium debuting as a Test venue in the series against South Africa later this month.

Discussing the importance of consistency in pitches, Ashwin stressed that India's varied pitch conditions often neutralize the home advantage. He believes that having standard Test centres with reliable and familiar pitches can better support strategic planning and team success.

Ashwin underscores the need for quality pitches, drawing attention to the benefits of certain soil types. He cited Indore's Holkar Stadium as an example, where the bounce and red soil aid in creating challenging cricket conditions. He warns against the risks of unpredictable pitch behaviors, which can skew match outcomes unfavorably.

(With inputs from agencies.)