Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin has issued a cautionary note regarding the future of ODI cricket, expressing concerns that the 50-over format may face a gradual decline after the 2027 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. With the increasing dominance of T20 leagues globally, along with the lasting appeal of Test cricket, Ashwin believes the relevance of ODIs is fading, putting the long-term survival of the format at risk.
### Ashwin’s Concerns for ODI Cricket
India’s second-highest wicket-taker across formats, boasting 765 scalps, Ashwin feels that the retirement of modern icons such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will lead to an existential crisis for ODIs. He expressed his worries, stating, “I am not sure about the future of ODI after the 2027 World Cup. I am a little worried about it. Of course, I am following the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but the manner in which I followed the SMAT, I am finding it slightly difficult to follow,” during a segment on his Hindi YouTube channel, ‘Ash Ki Baat’.
### The Impact of Star Players
He highlighted that the return of Rohit and Kohli to the Vijay Hazare Trophy attracted viewers, noting, “Look, Rohit and Virat came back to the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and people started watching it. We have known that sport is always bigger than individuals, but at times these players need to come back to make the game relevant.” While acknowledging the Vijay Hazare Trophy as a domestic competition not widely followed, he added, “Even then, what happens when they stop playing ODIs?”
### Critique on ICC Event Scheduling
Ashwin also commented on the ICC event calendar, arguing that the frequent occurrences of World Cups for revenue purposes are diminishing the tournament’s value and excitement. He suggested that the cricket authorities should learn from FIFA.
### Proposed Solutions for the Decline
Looking to the future, Ashwin shared his thoughts on how to revive ODI cricket, recommending that the ICC consider conducting only one 50-over event, the World Cup, every four years. “If you really want to make ODI cricket relevant, then just play these T20 leagues and play the ODI World Cup once in four years, so when people turn up for events, there will be a sense of expectation. I feel it is going towards slow death,” he added.