Is this the end of ODI cricket? World Cup 2023 gave us quite a few hints

The conclusion of the World Cup 2023 left Indian cricket fans in dismay as the host country fell short against Australia in the final at the Narendra Modi stadium. Despite the tournament's excitement, fans are still reeling from the shock of the outcome.

Beyond the match results, the World Cup 2023 offered a substantial indication regarding the future trajectory of One Day International (ODI) cricket. The once-popular 50-over format, inaugurated in 1971, seems to have lost its charm among fans—an issue of concern for the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Lack of nail-biting encounters

• A significant factor contributing to the dwindling interest in ODI cricket is the scarcity of thrilling finishes.
• Out of 48 games in the ODI World Cup 2023, merely 9 were closely contested encounters.
• This stark contrast from a decade ago when most games were competitive has impacted the format's appeal.
• Additionally, none of the matches were played for a full 100 overs. Eliminating the knockout matches, most games failed to ignite excitement among fans, resulting in a notably low turnout at the prestigious World Cup.

 The disappointing World Cup opener

• The opening match between England and New Zealand turned into a major embarrassment for organisers.
• Despite a stadium capacity of 1.3 lakh, the Narendra Modi stadium witnessed empty seats during a World Cup opener.
• Images of vacant stands went viral, drawing reactions from several foreign players. Even the quarterfinal group stage matches suffered from poor attendance.
• This trend of sparse spectators continued throughout numerous matches in the World Cup.

Prospects for bilateral ODI series

• Judging by the World Cup scenario, it appears that ODI cricket has indeed lost its allure.
• In recent years, Twenty20 (T20) cricket has gained momentum, offering shorter matches lasting about 3 hours compared to ODIs that extend for nearly 9 hours.
• The diminishing interest in ODIs might lead to a reduction in bilateral series, possibly restricting the format to tournaments like the Champions Trophy and World Cup.

The diminished role of bowlers

• World Cup 2023 witnessed several teams achieving 300-plus scores, a first in World Cup history.
• The tournament also saw the highest number of individual centuries (40), an abundance of sixes (650+), and boundaries (2100+).
• This shift indicates a less favorable environment for bowlers who often find themselves conceding runs.
• Certain game rules favor batsmen, such as two new balls, smaller boundaries, and powerplay overs, tipping the scales in favor of the batters.
• Additionally, the influence of T20 cricket has made batsmen more aggressive, resulting in faster centuries.
• The middle overs (25-40) tend to be less engaging for fans as batters play cautiously before accelerating towards the end.

Impact of T20 Cricket on ODIs

T20 cricket's fast-paced nature, with each side playing only 20 overs, has captured the audience's attention, causing a decline in interest in ODI cricket.

The role of ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) may need to reassess playing conditions to restore balance and interest in ODI cricket.

Adjustments to benefit bowlers and potential changes in the 50-over format might be necessary to prevent ODI cricket from being relegated solely to major tournaments, potentially leading to the demise of bilateral series.