Shahid Afridi backs day-night Tests

Shahid Afridi, the Pakistan captain, has backed the idea of day-night Tests, saying the concept will draw in bigger crowds, increase viewership and generate greater revenues for the game. Afridi echoed the views of the outgoing ICC president David Morgan, who had said "it won't be too long" before day-night Tests are played in India or Australia, and former Australian captain Steve Waugh.

"I definitely support this idea to have Test matches under lights because in this changing world it is necessary to make changes according to times," Afridi told PTI. "When you can have Twenty20 cricket and 50-overs cricket under lights, why not Test matches? I think it would increase the crowd participation and increase revenues and viewership for Test matches."

The prospect of day-night Tests has been raised to increase crowds but the concept has been held back by problems with coloured balls lasting more than 80 overs. Afridi, however, believed things would fall into place once the idea was implemented. When they used white ball for the first time in one-day cricket, it took time before things fell into place.

"It is the real test for cricketers but it is also a fact that nowadays people don't have time to go to the grounds for five days during the day time. I support any move that is aimed at betterment in the sport."