Mashrafe Mortaza says T20 format still not a standard measure

The Twenty20 cricket has been the most popular and enjoyed format of the game in the recent years. The shortest version of the game is full of action and the preferred choice of not just the viewers but also the players since it offers big money and faster recognition. The mindset of modern-day cricketers has changed a lot after the introduction of T20 cricket.

Recently, Bangladesh ODI captain Mashrafe Mortaza gave his views on the T20 format and its effects on the players. The fast bowler had recently retired from T20 cricket ahead of the series against Sri Lanka in April, earlier this year. Mashrafe captained his side in 28 T20 International matches.

Test cricket a true battle field

He stated that Test and ODI cricket are still the two main and important formats of the game. He was on point expressing that the biggest names the game as seen, the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman they give their best in Test cricket and that is what defines their class.

“T20s might bring money and glamour but it has never been a standard to measure any cricketer. The true battle field is Test and then ODI cricket. Look at Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman; they poured their talent in Test cricket,” said Mortaza after receiving the “Shera Bangali” award.

The pacer also stated that the shortest format provides the players with much-needed exposure and financial benefits, but it is not more than what the longer formats of the game have on offer.

Mashrafe’s career so far

The 33-year old pacer has played 179 ODIs and 54 T20s and claimed 232 and 42 wickets respectively. He also represented the national side in 36 Tests and has picked up 78 wickets. The current ODI captain has also led the Comilla Victorians in the previous two seasons of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), including the title win in 2015.