April 23, 2008	Wednesday	Rabi-us-Sani 16, 1429

MUMBAI, April 22: Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram believes One-day International cricket needs some major changes for it to survive in the wake of rising popularity of Twenty20 format.

Wasim said he, at times, got bored watching the 50-over matches in middle stages, adding there was a definite need to bring changes in the rules to make ODIs more exciting.

“Twenty20 is gaining popularity as it is exciting, aimed at younger generation who wants to watch a high-class sport in three to four hours time,” Wasim said.

“Twenty20 is good for the game’s future but not quality cricket. To protect real competition like ODIs or Tests, the ICC needs to think of revolutionary rule changes.”

On the idea of Test cricket under lights, Wasim said the concept was not bad and could be worked out.

The IPL is good but credit to launch this sort of tournament be given to the ICL, he said.

“I think the Indian board started working on IPL after the ICL. I know these events mean good money for the players and entertain crowds but are also going to damage traditional cricket in the long run,” he stated.

Wasim said he was happy players were getting paid well.

“I think boards of various countries should also think about raising pay packages of their players or else we will have a situation where players might opt to give preference to private Twenty20 leagues instead of national teams.”—Agencies