Test cricket, the pinnacle of the game, thrives on competitive contests, long-term planning, and the ability to adapt to changing situations. Yet, in recent years, Pakistan has struggled to regularly host Test matches at home, while Afghanistan remains eager to establish itself as a consistent player in the longest format. A bilateral Test series between the two nations during the IPL season could be a win-win scenario, addressing these challenges and elevating both teams’ stature in Test cricket.

Pakistan’s lack of regular home Test series denies players exposure to home conditions and impacts the cricketing ecosystem.

Pakistan’s international cricket landscape has been heavily shaped by external circumstances, from the decade-long exile of home matches after the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team to the dominance of white-ball cricket in recent years. While Pakistan has hosted Test matches sporadically since 2019, including against teams like Sri Lanka, South Africa, and England, a consistent Test schedule at home remains elusive.

The lack of regular home Test series denies Pakistani players valuable exposure to home conditions, where they once dominated with their spin-friendly tracks and reverse-swinging conditions. Moreover, it impacts the cricketing ecosystem, from fans who are eager for the drama of five-day cricket to young players who need role models to emulate in the purest form of the game.

Since earning Test status in 2017, Afghanistan has made commendable progress in cricket, showcasing their potential on the global stage. Players like Rashid Khan, Rahmat Shah, and Hashmatullah Shahidi have emerged as exceptional talents, capable of competing at the highest level. Despite these individual successes, Afghanistan’s journey in Test cricket remains limited, with only a handful of matches played to date.

Regular exposure to Test cricket is essential for a team eager to establish itself in the longest format. Consistent opportunities would enable players to develop the temperament, resilience, and technical skills required for success in red-ball cricket.

Afghanistan’s Test journey remains limited despite immense talent, risking their growth in the red-ball format.

Afghanistan’s squad boasts immense talent, particularly in the spin-bowling department, making them formidable in favorable conditions. However, without increased opportunities to play Test matches, their growth in this format risks being stunted, leaving untapped potential unrealized.

Why a Bilateral Series during IPL?

The IPL season provides a unique window for cricket boards looking to avoid the scheduling conflicts posed by major tournaments. With most cricketing nations, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, not participating in the IPL, this period offers a rare opportunity for both teams to engage in meaningful bilateral cricket.

Here’s why a Pakistan-Afghanistan Test series during the IPL makes perfect sense:

• With the cricketing world’s attention largely on the IPL, a bilateral Test series could shine a spotlight on the longer format in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Fans in both countries would have an uninterrupted opportunity to witness high-quality cricket.
• Pakistan and Afghanistan share a unique rivalry, shaped by shared borders and cultural ties. A Test series could serve as a platform for cricket diplomacy, strengthening bonds between the two nations and creating new heroes on both sides.
• Pakistan would get another opportunity to reestablish its dominance in home conditions, while Afghanistan could gain valuable experience against a higher-ranked opponent. If the series alternates venues, it could also mark Afghanistan hosting its first-ever Test series on home soil, further boosting their cricketing ambitions.

A bilateral Test series during the IPL could serve as a platform for cricket diplomacy and talent development for both nations.

• Both teams have exciting young talent that needs the rigors of Test cricket to mature. A three-match series would allow players to learn the nuances of the game, test their patience, and develop their skills in different scenarios.
• Fans in Pakistan have shown their love for the game, with packed stadiums for recent white-ball matches. A well-organized Test series, with proper marketing, could reignite interest in the longer format. Similarly, Afghanistan’s fans, who passionately follow the game, would welcome the chance to see their team compete in Tests.

While the idea of a bilateral Test series is compelling, it isn’t without its challenges. Logistical issues, security concerns, and financial viability are key factors that both cricket boards would need to address. Additionally, given the global nature of cricket schedules, the boards would need to work closely with the ICC to ensure the series fits seamlessly into the broader cricket calendar.

To overcome these hurdles, the PCB and ACB could look for ICC support, including financial subsidies for hosting and broadcasting the series. Additionally, neutral venues could be considered if security or infrastructure poses challenges in Afghanistan.

Test cricket thrives on bold decisions; a Pakistan-Afghanistan series could reignite interest in the longest format and foster international unity.

Test cricket thrives on opportunities and bold decisions. For Pakistan, hosting Afghanistan in a bilateral Test series would reinforce its commitment to bringing international cricket back home. For Afghanistan, it would be a chance to prove its mettle in the red-ball format and take a significant step forward in its cricketing journey.

During the IPL season, when Test cricket often takes a backseat, a Pakistan-Afghanistan series could fill the void and demonstrate the enduring appeal of the longest format. It’s an idea worth exploring—not just for the sake of cricketing rivalry, but for the growth and survival of Test cricket itself.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.