South Africa vs Austrailia

[Le Chef]

The problems with the Tests is there are only 4 countries that can compete with each other.

England
South Africa
Australia
India

The remainder are quite a way behind - Selling the top 4 shouldn't be an issue, Its selling the New Zealand Vs West indies which is the problem

[Fernandinho]

I know that for Australia T20 is of high important to the Cricket Board here because they see it as a way of saving State Cricket. Around here the crowds for the state games are really quite poor despite the cricket being of decent quality. I guess it was believed that creating the "T20 Bash" (the state cricket T20 competition) as it is known here and cutting the regular seasons down (I think) was an attempt to increase fan popularity.

This has led to a higher demand for the national team to play it too which is obviously leading to a fall in demand for the longer forms of the game vs other nations.

Also, cricket has been on the decline in Australia, kind of following the trend towards Football (SUCCESS ) and the decline in quality of the national team.

The board is probably a little desperate to save the sport and see the movie length form of the game as it saviour, although its looking like it may back fire.

Not only with falling support for test matchs but a long term affect on the quality of sportsmen as our youth are now more interested in hitting the ball to the boundary every ball rather than building a proper innings based on patience and determination.

[Alex]

Popularity in the game goes with the success of the side. 10 years ago no one really bothered much with the national team, apart from the cricket fans. Now everyone loves them. Same with Australia. I'm sure that over the last 10-15 years of dominance the viewing figures and attendance was massive. Like it was when we had Botham playing.

I don't really know Australian culture that well but Id doubt football will take over. The cricket side will pick up again and everyone will be in love with all forms of the game.

[Fernandinho]

Don't talk like that Alex. Its the most played sport and the A-League is slowly growing in quality even if crowds have plateaued. Kepp the faith