Former India captain Mohammed Azharuddin has dismissed suggestions Twenty20 may become a potential threat to Test cricket.

The stylish batsman from Hyderabad also hoped the instant popularity of the shortened version of the game would not lead to a situation of overkill.

The 99 Test veteran chose to differ with the view from many, including Sir Geoffrey Boycott, who have called for drastic changes to be made in rules to safeguard the oldest form of cricket.

“I don’t see why it should affect Test cricket.” Azhar told Mid-Day. “There are not too many T20 matches scheduled.”

The 45-year-old right-hander also hailed the on-going Indian Premier League for allowing new talent to develop and emerge.

“IPL is good for the game because you can see the emergence of new players who are talented,” he added. “It is entertaining for everyone. The IPL is here to stay.”

Azharuddin, along with his former Pakistan and West Indies counterparts Javed Miandad and Richie Richardson, have agreed to play a privately run Twenty20 tournament in Florida later this month.
Source:cricket365.co.za