In an effort to popularise Test cricket among the masses, the game's traditional format is actually in danger of losing its charm — at least among the practitioners of the longer version.

Pink ball Tests have been lapped up by the paying public and is deemed a fine innovation, but it will be a while before the players are completely satisfied and comfortable to play more than a solitary day-night Test in a series. But Australia seem to be so enamoured by the pink ball and lights that they expected India (who had no experience of a pink ball Test cricket) to play the opening Test of last season's Border-Gavaskar Trophy. It was justifiably turned down.