Shubman Gill floats radical plan to revive ODI cricket amid decline

Shubman Gill pushes bold fix for ODI cricket’s slump

Shubman Gill, India’s white-ball captain, has floated a radical plan to revive One-Day International cricket by reverting to 60-over matches. The proposal comes as the 50-over format grapples with shrinking audiences and dwindling interest across global leagues.

What Gill suggested

Gill’s idea centers on expanding ODI games from 50 to 60 overs per side to inject more context and action into each match. The captain floated the concept during a team meeting on 12 July, framing it as a way to recapture the format’s traditional appeal. He argued that longer games would allow more comebacks, higher run rates, and deeper tactical battles-elements that have thinned in shorter ODIs.

Why the change could matter

ODI cricket’s TV ratings have slid 18% over the past two years, per ICC broadcast data, as T20 leagues dominate fan attention. Gill’s plan targets casual viewers who find 50-over games too quick to build momentum. A 60-over trial in the upcoming India A series could test whether the format regains its footing before senior sides adopt it.

Reactions and next steps

Former India opener Virender Sehwag backed the idea, calling it a "gamble worth taking" to revive the format’s prestige. The BCCI’s cricket operations team will review Gill’s proposal before the next international window. If approved, the change could debut in the 2027 home season.

The bigger picture

Gill’s push reflects his broader role in reshaping India’s white-ball identity. As captain, he’s prioritized aggressive batting and varied bowling rotations to keep ODIs competitive. His latest idea splits opinions: purists hail it as a return to roots, while skeptics warn it may further fragment an already crowded calendar.