New ICC Chief backs idea of four-day Tests

Chief Executive of the ACB and the man soon to take over as Chief Executive of the ICC, Malcolm Speed, has lent his support to the idea of four-day Test matches.

"It's rare that a Test goes for the full five days and often when they go four or five days, they fizzle out anyway," said Speed. He went on to say that the idea was "gaining a bit of momentum" and would be suggested to the ICC at "some stage."

Although traditionalists may have reservations about the idea, former Australian captain, Mark Taylor welcomed a fresh look at the game. "Just because a Test match has always been five days doesn't mean you can't change it," Taylor told The Australian. "Every game has to look at making itself better, keeping up with the times. Tradition holds true but up to a point."

The ICC are currently considering ideas to improve the one-day international game, including awarding bonus runs for boundaries hit between the 15th and 40th overs and relaxing fielding restrictions.