In order to preserve the "long term viability of the new T20 League," South Africa declared on July 13 that they would not participate in the three-match men's ODI series against Australia in January 2023.
Ian Bishop, a former West Indies pacer who is now a commentator, believes that South Africa's decision to jeopardise its chances of qualifying for the 2023 Men's ODI World Cup for its impending T20 League has demonstrated the growing importance of franchise cricket for a nation.
"You want the integrity of international cricket to continue from an equal perspective. However, cricket's finances are also a significant consideration. How therefore can we reconcile economics with morality for the sake of the game? Franchise cricket is demonstrating to us the necessity of a window."
"Big Bash needs opportunities to generate that cash stream, the IPL needs a window to do so, and the CPL needs its chance. However, I can imagine a time in the future when, similar to football and international cricket, there will be a distinct boundary for that portion of the franchise. By clearing their schedule, South Africa is demonstrating how seriously they are taking their commitment to franchise cricket "said Bishop in an exclusive interview with IANS.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri had called for a reduction in the number of T20Is played while giving World Cups the utmost importance due to the proliferation of T20 franchise leagues in the world and their attempt to take up a significant portion of an already packed international cricket schedule. Bishop concurred with this opinion.
"I agree with Ravi that we should cut back on some of the bilateral 50-over and 20-over competitions. We could have to take that route, prioritise World Cups now, select our teams from among those competing in franchise events, and limit the time available for squad building and World Cup preparation."
Bishop thinks steps should be taken to protect international cricket despite the enormous threat posed by T20 Leagues. What I do know is that, according to a few coaches, spending enough time together as a team is highly important.
"Let's suppose they want enough international matches leading up to the T20 World Cup to observe how their players mesh, who works and bats where with that bonding."
"I still believe that there should be adequate time. How does Pant bat alongside Virat Kohli if you play well in a team? With KL Rahul, how does Rohit Sharma play? You must still learn more about that synergy."