Former Indian batsman Robin Uthappa has raised a significant concern about the future of international cricket, stating that the charm and novelty of ICC tournaments are diminishing due to an excessively packed schedule. He emphasized that the game's administrators must evolve their approach to preserve the prestige of these global events.
Uthappa's Stark Warning on ICC Event Overload
Speaking during a media interaction at the ongoing SA20 league in South Africa, Uthappa responded to a PTI query with a candid assessment. "I think the game needs to evolve from the administrative perspective," he stated. He questioned the value fans now place on annual ICC tournaments, bluntly adding, "The novelty of it is wearing off, to be very honest and with all due respect."
His comments gain weight from the current cricket calendar. The sport witnessed the Women's ODI World Cup across September and November 2025. Immediately following, the men's T20 World Cup is set for February 7 to March 8, 2026. The women's T20 World Cup is scheduled just six months later, creating a scenario with three World Cups within ten months.
The Call for Breathing Space Between Global Events
Uthappa, who is currently commentating in the SA20, argued passionately for creating meaningful gaps between ICC championships. "It has to mean something. There has to be a little bit of a gap. We can't have or shouldn't have an ICC championship every year," he asserted.
He believes this is crucial not just for players but for the viewing public. "I think the novelty of the ICC Championships must be there. I think it's an integral part, not just for the players but also for the fans, also for the viewers," Uthappa explained. He termed the need for change a "hard truth" that administrators must confront to evolve the game sustainably.
SA20: A Vital Prep Ground for T20 World Cup
Despite his critique of the international schedule, Uthappa had high praise for the SA20's role as a preparatory platform. He believes the league offers excellent high-intensity practice for players ahead of next month's T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Contrasting with views from 5-7 years ago, he now sees the tournament as squarely fitting into World Cup preparations. "For example, Durban is supposed to be the fastest wicket in the world with bounce and pace. It's not the same. It sits up now," he detailed, indicating similar conditions to the subcontinent.
Uthappa concluded by predicting strong performances from players involved in the SA20, stating, "I won't be surprised if SA and some of the players who played in this league end up doing really well in the World Cup because the conditions are pretty similar at this point in time."
