Viswanath asks ICC to back Test cricket

Inspired by Rahul Dravid's glorious 177 in the ongoing first Test against Sri lanka at Ahmedabad, former India captain Gundappa Viswanath has asked the ICC not to undermine Test cricket and promote the five-day game, which has been in vogue since 1877.

Inspired by Rahul Dravid's glorious 177 in the ongoing first Test against Sri lanka at Ahmedabad, former India captain Gundappa Viswanath has asked the ICC not to undermine Test cricket and promote the five-day game, which has been in vogue since 1877.

"Test cricket is what cricket is about. It tests the players' skill. It is a different ball game altogether. It is the real cricket in which all players would want show their prowess. I want ICC to think about vigorously promoting Test cricket," said Viswanath.

"To play such a fabulous innings when India were down in the dumps (32 for 4) reflects the player's skill and temperament. It is only in Tests that you can get to do this. It provides you the platform to show your character, skill and temperament.

"The ICC should realise that cricket has been kept alive by the calibre, skill and class that the Dravids, Tendulkars and Pontings produce time and again when the going gets tough. The trio among others have shown what Test cricket is all about. It is a glorious game," he said.