Test Lights here to Stay!

Following the events in New Zealand the ICC today reiterated its position regarding the use of floodlights in Test Match cricket.

The innovative use of floodlights during Test match cricket was the result of extensive discussion and agreement between the Test playing nations. The safety of players was naturally a significant consideration in the deliberations. The responsibility for determining whether play should continue under lights is at the discretion of the umpires who will, naturally, take safety factors into consideration.

The ICC is acutely aware of the need for cricket to position itself at the forefront of international sport; competition from other sports and entertainment activities has grown dramatically in recent years not only for the spectator dollar but for that of media attention both electronic and printed. International cricket cannot ignore this reality; it is imperative that cricket places itself at the forefront through innovation which retains the traditional values of the game.

David Richardson, ICC General Manager Cricket, has no doubt that playing under floodlights is here to stay:

"We must be mindful that player's careers are at stake. Decisions to play in conditions which are unfair to one side or the other must be avoided which is why we have given the umpires the discretion and asked them to use it responsibly.

International players, however, will understand that whilst the traditional values of our game remain paramount they are in the entertainment business and that demands flexibility and adaptability from them. The fourth days play in Auckland had over four hundred runs and sixteen wickets, it is action of this kind that provides value for money and keeps the world's broadcast and print media interested in the game. As a former player I also realise that this interest will ensure the continuity of players rewards that current internationals enjoy".