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ICC likely to approve four-day Tests for smaller nations, India, England, Australia exempted

The ICC is planning a major shift in Test cricket by approving four-day matches for smaller nations in the 2027-29 WTC cycle, while keeping five-day Tests intact for India, England, and Australia.

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In a significant development for the future of Test cricket, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing to permit four-day Test matches for smaller cricketing nations in the 2027-2029 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. However, cricket heavyweights India, Australia, and England will be allowed to continue playing traditional five-day Tests, particularly for marquee series like the Ashes, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the new Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

Shift to four-day format aims to support smaller nations

The ICC’s move is aimed at revitalizing Test cricket for emerging nations, where hosting five-day matches often poses financial and logistical challenges. The introduction of four-day Tests, which were initially approved in 2017 for bilateral series, could pave the way for more frequent and longer series among lower-ranked teams by reducing scheduling burdens and associated costs.

The shorter format allows for a minimum of 98 overs per day, compared to 90 in five-day matches, mitigating the reduction in total match time. This format has already been trialed, most recently when England played Zimbabwe in a four-day Test at Trent Bridge. They had also hosted Ireland under similar terms in 2019 and 2023.

Jay Shah backs four-day Tests initiative

According to a report, the ICC Chair Jay Shah showed support for this initiative during discussions at the recent WTC final held at Lord’s. The proposal, if formalized, is expected to apply from the 2027-29 WTC cycle. However, the upcoming 2025-27 WTC edition will maintain the five-day format, starting with a two-Test series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Currently, of the 27 scheduled Test series in the 2025-27 cycle, 17 are only two-match affairs, while just six are scheduled for three matches. Only India, England, and Australia will play five-match series against each other, emphasizing the disparity in scheduling between the top-tier and lower-ranked teams.

South Africa’s limited Test calendar highlights concern

South Africa’s sparse Test schedule, despite being recent WTC champions, has underscored the necessity for reform. The suggestion is that four-day Tests could help balance the calendar and bring more consistent exposure to red-ball cricket for nations outside the traditional big three.

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Who is Sahil Parakh? Teenager makes IPL debut for Delhi Capitals vs RCB

Sahil Parakh, an 18-year-old batter from Maharashtra, made his IPL debut for Delhi Capitals against RCB in IPL 2026.

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Sahil Parakh, an emerging batter from Maharashtra, made his Indian Premier League debut for Delhi Capitals during their 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

The 18-year-old was handed his maiden cap as the franchise made changes to its playing XI, looking to test fresh talent in a crucial stage of the tournament.

Opens innings alongside KL Rahul

Parakh was included as an opening batter and partnered experienced wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul at the top. The move reflected Delhi Capitals’ intent to experiment with their batting combination and give exposure to young players in high-pressure games.

Short stay at the crease

The debut outing did not last long for the youngster, as he was dismissed early in the innings. Despite the brief appearance, the opportunity marked an important milestone in his career.

Promising name from domestic circuit

Parakh is a left-handed batter who has impressed in age-group and domestic cricket, earning attention for his performances at the state level. His selection in the Delhi Capitals squad for IPL 2026 underlines the franchise’s focus on nurturing young talent for the future.

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Who is Praful Hinge? Young pacer who made instant impact with match-turning IPL debut spell

Praful Hinge grabbed attention with a three-wicket over on his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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Praful Hinge bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL

Praful Hinge is an emerging Indian fast bowler who grabbed attention after a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, the young pacer made headlines by taking three wickets in a single over, a rare and impactful feat in T20 cricket.

His performance came against Rajasthan Royals, where he turned the game with a decisive spell, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Domestic cricket background

Hinge hails from Nagpur and has been associated with the Vidarbha cricket team in domestic cricket. Like many cricketers rising through India’s competitive system, his progress at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL opportunity.

While detailed statistics from his domestic career remain limited in public reports, his selection in the IPL reflects recognition of his potential and performances.

Bowling style and strengths

Praful Hinge is a right-arm fast bowler known for:

  • Maintaining a disciplined line and length
  • Ability to generate movement off the pitch
  • Effectiveness in short, impactful spells

His debut spell highlighted composure under pressure, especially in a high-intensity league like the IPL.

Breakthrough IPL moment

Making an immediate impact in the IPL is never easy, but Hinge’s three-wicket over on debut stands out as a defining moment. Performances like these often play a key role in shaping a young cricketer’s early career and gaining attention from teams and selectors.

A promising start

Praful Hinge’s debut has positioned him as a young fast bowler to watch. While it is still early in his career, such impactful performances suggest potential for further opportunities in domestic and franchise cricket.

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At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi eyes India debut, could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may soon make his India debut after a standout IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals.

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Rising cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is reportedly on the verge of earning his first senior India call-up following an impressive run in IPL 2026. The 15-year-old batter has been shortlisted for the upcoming India tour of Ireland, according to multiple reports.

The young Rajasthan Royals player has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about talents this season, delivering impactful performances that have caught the attention of selectors.

Strong performances boost selection chances

Sooryavanshi’s explosive batting in IPL 2026 has played a key role in pushing his case for national selection. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenager has consistently taken on top bowlers with confidence, showcasing both aggressive stroke play and maturity beyond his age.

Reports suggest he is among several young players being monitored for India’s Ireland tour, with selectors looking to test emerging talent in a relatively shorter series.

Could become youngest India debutant

If selected and given an opportunity, Sooryavanshi could script history by becoming one of the youngest players to represent India at the international level. At just 15, he would surpass long-standing age records set by former greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16.

The potential milestone has added further excitement around the youngster, whose rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket has been closely followed by fans and experts alike.

Future tours also on radar

Apart from the Ireland series, reports indicate that Sooryavanshi could also be considered for other upcoming assignments later in 2026, including a possible tour of Zimbabwe. His consistent performances and fearless approach have made him a strong contender for continued inclusion in India’s plans.

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