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Test cricket may still be called the purest form of the game, but former IPL chairman Lalit Modi believes it is heading towards serious crisis. In a bold statement, Modi warned that the traditional format of the game could gradually disappear if cricket administrators do not take major steps to make it relevant to modern fans.
The T20 league continues to attract huge crowds, massive television deals and young audiences, but Test cricket is finding it increasingly difficult to compete for attention, and Modi feels the longer format of the game needs modern approaches if the game is to survive in the future.
Lalit Modi predicted the end of bilateral test series
Lalit Modi suggested that Test cricket needs franchise-style competitions if the longest format is to remain relevant in the modern era. He made it clear that the bilateral Test series will end in the coming years. With leagues taking up more space in the calendar and players getting many opportunities around the world, he wants the ICC to scrap ODIs to keep Test cricket alive.
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“I am saying that Test matches on a bilateral basis will end. My next prediction is that now they should allow IPL-type (T20-type) Test matches. The next thing they should do is include Test matches. One-day (ODIs) should end. Tests should survive. Tests are a very important part,” ANI quoted Modi as saying.
The former IPL boss also expressed concern over the increasing gap between Test matches. Earlier this year, there was a long break in the Test calendar as franchise leagues and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 dominated the schedule. Additionally, Modi feels that the biggest challenge for Test cricket is financial realities.
It’s not just about money: Lalit Modi expresses concern over future of Test cricket
Unlike T20 leagues, which generate huge interest and revenue, Test cricket often struggles to attract large audiences outside a few key rivalries. Because of this, Modi believes the format may ultimately need the support of franchise owners and private investment to remain relevant.
He suggested that the ICC allow IPL franchises to run separate Test teams, and this would bring millions of young fans to red-ball matches. The former IPL chairman also wants country-vs-country Test cricket to continue through a stronger global championship structure, while franchise-based red-ball matches can act as an additional attraction rather than a replacement.
Modi said, “Unfortunately, if club cricket does not take over due to lack of viewership globally, Test cricket will die out. So, it will be a loss-making deal. I am not saying it is necessary to make money in everything… You do not have to be profitable in everything. You have to do something for the game also.”
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Lalit Modi proposes IPL-style Test teams for survival
Lalit Modi also suggested making the test matches four days long and increasing the number of day-night matches. The former IPL chairman further explained, “Test cricket would be the only way it would be if someone shoots me for saying this. It’s the first time I’m saying this. Let IPL teams own Test cricket teams. You’ve got young players; you’ve got loyalty factors. You play country versus country, no doubt about it, that’s key.”
Lalit Modi concluded by saying, “I am saying that you have it as a world championship that is held every year around the world; you play them without a doubt, but also so that it does not disappear, you have exhibition matches starting with it – teams playing Test cricket.”
“Play against each other at least for a season to get our youngsters back into the game. It will be like club cricket. You have club cricket in everything. But the primary thing should be country versus country.”
