Mr Cricket (28 page)

Twenty20 is the final piece in the cricket puzzle. Traditionalists will always favour Test cricket, but many traditionalists have come to love 50-over cricket too. This will happen with Twenty20 as well. Nevertheless, even though I would like to see Twenty20 flourish, as someone who's spent his life involved in the game, I believe Test cricket must remain the pinnacle for players and fans. Limited-overs cricket has many strengths, but there can be no substitute for having your technique, fitness and mental strength tested over five days. That's why Test cricket is the true measure of a player. That's why efforts in Test cricket are the beacon
by which your peers and the public will remember you.

It's certainly an exciting time to be a cricketer. There are many changes affecting the game, on and off the field, and many issues still to be addressed. But, whether it is Twenty20, 50-over or Test cricket, I believe our game comes down to knowledge and persistence. Once you understand the ingredients for success that suit your style, personality and beliefs, you have to relentlessly harness and nurture them if you want to reach your potential. Sure, being adaptable is important – now more than ever. At the top that means being ready for cricket in all its forms, but also playing a constructive role in its evolution. However, at any level, being true to yourself and understanding how to achieve your best is the most important thing of all.

STATISTICS