ECB 'yet to firm up position on four-day Test matches'

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed they have yet to agree on an official position regarding the possible introduction of four-day Tests.

The idea of reducing Tests from five days to four has been mooted for more than a decade, although cricketing authorities around the world are yet to embrace such changes to the current format.

It has been reported that the idea of shortening Tests has the support of the ECB - the English game's governing body.

Cricket South Africa has already publicised plans to stage a shortened Test, starting on Boxing Day against Zimbabwe in Port Elizabeth, subject to International Cricket Council (ICC) approval.

The ECB has already held a day-night Test this summer and steps are being taken globally to try and retain Test cricket's relevance amid the growing popularity of Twenty20.

An ECB statement reads: "We have no firm position on the staging of four-day Test matches.

"We can see benefits that more compact scheduling might deliver but are sensitive to the potential effects of any change to the traditional format.

"Careful consideration is required to support the right decisions for the wider game, and on-field matters are key."

"We would welcome more insight on the effects for players and fans in order to help the game make a fully-informed decision on any proposal.

"It is important that cricket is prepared to innovate in all formats of the game where it can help drive interest, accessibility or improvement.

"Above all, ECB is committed to a healthy and competitive future for Test match cricket, here and around the world."