Australia is almost certain to make history in November 2009 by hosting cricket's first day-night Test match. Australia and Pakistan will become the first teams to clash in a Test match under lights, the Daily Telegraph reported. Cricket Australia chose the Adelaide Oval match next November and will seek ICC approval. The CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) is also being asked to help design a special ball for cricket's most radical move in 30 years.
Cricket Australia has proposed the Test to start from 2 p.m., following the usual timeslot of regular one-day internationals played under lights. Broadcaster Channel Nine has also thrown its support behind the new concept. The match will be staged in one of the last weeks of the 2009 TV ratings year. CA chief executive James Sutherland said that the move was inevitable, adding: "Test cricket is our premium form of the game so why (not) play it at a time when most people can watch it?
"There's no doubt it will happen - people can go after work and it's a cooler time of the day for spectators and fans. Look at the Olympics, the NRL and the AFL and how much of it is played at night these days because it's a more convenient time for viewers and fans," he said. A suitable ball is a sticking point, but CA is committed to solving the issue by November. "The white ball for one-day cricket that lasts 50 overs is not suitable," Sutherland said.
And like the one-day game and Twenty20 cricket, a night Test is sure to spark debate among traditionalists.
