Brendon McCullum describes AB de Villiers absence as 'red flag' for Test cricket

Former New Zealand captain and explosive wicketkeeper-batsman, Brendon McCullum has tagged AB de Villiers’ absence in the Test Series against England as a red flag for the future of Test format. AB de Villiers has been selective about the matches he would want to feature, in the last year and a half, keeping an eye on the ICC World Cup of 2019 to be held in England and Wales.

McCullum has been vocal about the affinity of players to opt for lucrative T20 leagues which in turn has harmed Test Cricket indirectly. Citing out statistics from last year, which gave 92% results, McCullum stated that Test Cricket is here to stay in the long term.

“AB is a unique situation but it is another red flag [for test cricket]. We feel the development of these T20 leagues around the world has put a lot of pressure on players to make decisions when the test game is actually in really good stead” explained Brendon McCullum who is also a member of MCC.

Chose between Twenty20 leagues or international cricket

“Last year’s statistics of 48 wins out of 52 tests played shows that – but it is important we look at the long-term sustainability of test cricket, ensuring it is still loved around the world. There is a feeling that in some countries test cricket is under pressure.” further added the Kiwi talisman according to stuff.co.nz. McCullum suggested that the well-to-do boards should be responsible enough for the sustainability of the longest form of the game.

“It is not guys at the end of their career but guys from countries that do not get paid enough money and maybe do not get the opportunities they require, which is where the T20 leagues become attractive. It is about those countries having the money so the players are compensated appropriately so these T20 leagues are seen as something they can play in but priority remains international cricket. The tipping point now is choosing Twenty20 leagues or international cricket.” concluded McCullum.