Is ODI Cricket Facing a Slow Decline After the 2027 World Cup?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Ravichandran Ashwin raises alarms about the future of ODI cricket, predicting its potential decline post-2027 World Cup. With T20 leagues on the rise and legends like Rohit and Kohli nearing retirement, Ashwin's insights provoke thought on the format's sustainability. Can cricket's governing body adapt before it's too late?
Key Takeaways
- ODI cricket faces potential decline post-2027 World Cup.
- The rise of T20 leagues is impacting ODI viewership.
- Player retirements could exacerbate the situation.
- ICC should rethink the frequency of World Cups.
- Anticipation is key to maintaining interest in ODI cricket.
New Delhi, Jan 1, 2026 (NationPress): Renowned Indian spin bowler Ravichandran Ashwin has issued a caution regarding the future of ODI cricket, raising concerns that the 50-over format may experience a gradual decline following the 2027 World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. He observes that the increasing popularity of T20 leagues globally, coupled with the lasting charm of Test cricket, is causing the significance of ODIs to wane, putting the long-term viability of the format at risk.
As the second-highest wicket-taker in Indian cricket history with 765 dismissals, Ashwin is concerned that the retirement of modern legends like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli could lead to a critical phase for the cherished format.
“I have my reservations about the future of ODI after the 2027 World Cup. It worries me. While I follow the Vijay Hazare Trophy, I find it somewhat challenging to engage with it as I did with the SMAT,” Ashwin expressed during an episode of his Hindi YouTube channel, 'Ash Ki Baat'.
“When Rohit and Virat participated in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, viewership surged. We know that the sport transcends individual players, but their presence is sometimes crucial for the game's relevance. The Vijay Hazare Trophy, while a domestic event, garnered interest due to Kohli and Rohit’s involvement. What will happen once they retire from ODIs?” he questioned.
Ashwin further commented on the ICC's event scheduling, arguing that the frequent holding of World Cups for financial gain is undermining the tournament's value and excitement. He believes cricketing authorities should take a leaf out of FIFA's book.
Looking ahead, Ashwin proposed measures to counter the decline of ODIs. He suggested that the ICC could consider hosting only one 50-over event, the World Cup, every four years. “To revitalize ODI cricket, it might be beneficial to focus on T20 leagues and hold the ODI World Cup once every four years. This would create anticipation for the events and stave off a slow decline,” he concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to note Ashwin's points on the future of ODI cricket. His insights reflect a growing concern within the cricketing community about the format's sustainability. With evolving viewer preferences, it is imperative for governing bodies to reconsider their strategies to ensure that ODI cricket remains relevant and exciting for fans.
NationPress
07/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ravichandran Ashwin's concerns about ODI cricket?
Ashwin is worried that ODI cricket could face a slow decline after the 2027 World Cup due to the rise of T20 leagues and the potential retirement of key players.
What solutions does Ashwin suggest for revitalizing ODI cricket?
He proposes that the ICC should consider hosting the ODI World Cup only once every four years to build anticipation and excitement around the event.
How does Ashwin view the ICC's event scheduling?
He believes that frequent World Cups for revenue generation are diminishing the tournament's value and excitement.
Why does Ashwin think the Vijay Hazare Trophy gained viewership?
The presence of stars like Kohli and Rohit attracted attention to the domestic competition, showing how important key players are for maintaining interest.
What is Ashwin's position in Indian cricket?
Ravichandran Ashwin is India's second-highest wicket-taker across formats, with a total of 765 wickets.
