Smart strategy

The 2026 T20 tournament is being played principally in India and Sri Lanka. Some of the countries do not play Test cricket or are relatively new to the game, like the USA, Oman, UAE, Nepal, etc. However, when they play, there is scant audience. The stands are almost empty. This is very embarrassing. I am sure it demoralises the players too. A cheering and applauding audience always buoys the players.

It will be a smart strategy to play some of the matches in the home countries of the new cricket-playing teams. The UAE has excellent cricket facilities. I am sure the local audiences in countries like Oman, UAE or the USA would be enthralled to watch their teams in action. This may involve a longer duration for the tournament and incremental travel for the players.

Rajendra Aneja,
Mumbai, India