Cricket Australia CEO Aims to Illuminate Bad Light Issue
Todd Greenberg, the newly appointed chief executive of Cricket Australia (CA), is prioritizing a resolution to the persistent problem of bad light halting play. He emphasizes the need to prioritize the fan experience,acknowledging the frustration caused when matches are prematurely suspended due to fading light.
Did you know? The International Cricket Council (ICC) has been actively exploring changes to playing conditions in One Day Internationals (ODIs) to enhance the game.
greenberg’s commitment comes after his recent participation in his first round of ICC meetings in Harare, following his assumption of the CEO role last month, succeeding Nick Hockley.While Greenberg faces a multitude of pressing issues, the disruption caused by bad light stands out as a key area for immediate attention.
Entertainment First: Prioritizing the Fan Experience
Greenberg is adamant that cricket must adapt to meet the expectations of modern audiences. He views the sport as part of the entertainment industry, where fan satisfaction is paramount.
My view has always been we are in the entertainment business and so if we’re in the entertainment business that means we’re trying to make sure as many fans can enjoy their cricket as possible.
He believes that walking off the field due to bad light is an outdated practice that needs to be addressed through innovation and practical solutions.
The frustration that goes when we walk off with bad light is we might potentially be one of the last industries left that would do that. We need to find ways to innovate and figure out solutions so that doesn’t happen in the future.
The Challenge of Bad Light: A Modern Viewpoint
The issue of bad light has gained increased prominence with the advent of day-night Test cricket, which utilizes pink balls.While these matches are primarily played in Australia, the broader implications for all forms of cricket are evident. Various solutions,such as switching between different colored balls,have been considered,but these have generally been deemed impractical.
Pro Tip: Floodlights have become increasingly common at cricket grounds, allowing for extended play during traditional daytime Tests.Though, umpires still have the discretion to halt play when artificial light significantly overshadows natural light, frequently enough judged by the visibility of light tower shadows on the field.
Collaboration is Key: Engaging Players in the Solution
Greenberg, who previously led the Australian Cricketers’ Association, recognizes the importance of involving players in the search for a solution. He understands the reasons behind the current protocols but believes that a collaborative approach is essential to finding a better way forward.
I’m a realist and I understand why [play stops for bad light] and I understand the difficulties, but ultimately we want to give fans the best outcomes and there is nothing more frustrating then having to go off for bad light, particularly in an habitat where we can play under lights be it with different coloured balls or different technologies.
He emphasizes the need for open dialog and a shared commitment to improving the fan experience.
The players are part of the solution and we need to communicate really well with them. I’m a realist to know that it won’t be solved overnight,but geez,it’s 2025 and we can play in different conditions,I’m certain we can come up with a way to solve some of those challenges.
