Sydney, Jan 5 (NationPress) Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed his understanding of the fans' disappointment after Day 1 of the fifth and final Ashes Test was abruptly halted due to inadequate light and adverse weather conditions. He indicated that he shares their frustration and is keen on addressing this matter at an international level.

The play was suspended at 2:55 pm (local time) and the day was ultimately called off around 5 pm due to rain and lightning. Speaking before Day 2, Greenberg noted that the situation was especially disheartening given the circumstances.

"I share your frustration. There are many aspects of cricket that frustrate me, but bad light is certainly one of them. Yesterday felt particularly challenging with a full house and millions watching from home," Greenberg stated in an interview with SEN Cricket.

While acknowledging players' concerns regarding visibility, Greenberg emphasized that the sport must seek more effective solutions to minimize lost playing time.

"I advise caution regarding players' remarks that they couldn't see the ball and found it too dark, but I am frustrated that we lack a solution to this ongoing issue. I am careful about critiquing problems without having an answer, but we must find a more effective way in cricket to ensure we remain on the field despite less-than-ideal lighting conditions and show a greater commitment to returning when possible," he elaborated.

He acknowledged that he does not possess a straightforward solution at the moment, but reiterated his commitment to advocate for advancements within the sport’s governing bodies.

"I may not have a definitive answer today, but you can infer from my comments a desire to pursue improvements on a global scale, as this situation was unacceptable. I have discussed the intricacies of cricket and some of its archaic rules over the years, and I believe there are discussions to be had regarding how we can be more progressive," he added.

Highlighting cricket's obligation to its audience, Greenberg stressed the necessity of balancing entertainment with player safety.

"I feel like a broken record, but we are in the entertainment industry, and I cannot think of another business that decides to leave the field in front of its fans. While ensuring player safety is paramount, we have powerful lighting systems and technology; I'm confident there is a way to manage this better. I felt there was more cricket to be played yesterday," he mentioned.

Although the interruption disappointed many spectators, it may have inadvertently benefited Australia, as Joe Root and Harry Brook concluded the day unbeaten in the 70s. To compensate for the lost time, play for the remaining days of the Test will commence 30 minutes earlier.