AUSTRALIA could soon be hosting night Test cricket on prime time television under the sport's new $500 million deal with Channel 9.
Although next summer's Ashes schedule is finalised for day fixtures, a starting date for the following season against India in November 2014 is under serious consideration.
Adelaide is currently the favoured venue for the launch because of the city's dryer night conditions.
The hours of play would likely to be between 1pm and 9pm.
"Channel 9 is really keen to see it happen," said network supremo David Gyngell. "We will do everything possible to work alongside Cricket Australia on the future of Tests under lights."
Cricket Australia has confirmed night games at venues across the country are a priority in future planning.
"James Sutherland has always said night Test cricket is a matter of when, not if," said spokesman Peter Young.
"The possibility has moved forward with the ICC decision that countries can play Tests at night if they jointly agree."
Night cricket would give Channel 9 a much better chance of recouping the $80 million a year that they are currently spending on cricket rights.
It allows the network to increase advertising rates and offsets the costs of having to buy other shows for prime time viewing.
It also has its bonuses for Cricket Australia's future hope for growth in attendances. A five-day cricket Test in this country normally covers a weekend and three working days unless there are public holidays.
It would give fans the chance to finish work at five and catch almost the final two sessions at the ground.
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sp...t-tests-for-2014/story-fni2flhh-1226660652036
