Empty Stands at Ahmedabad Test: A Wake-Up Call for Indian Cricket

The first Test match of the home season between India and the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad has sparked significant debate among cricket enthusiasts and purists alike. The absence of cricketing icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the playing XI for the first time in nearly 15 years has not only left a void on the field but has also been reflected in the empty stands, raising questions about the future of Test cricket in India.

A Historic Absence

For the first time since November 2010, when India faced New Zealand in Nagpur, neither Rohit Sharma nor Virat Kohli was present in the playing XI for a Test match. Kohli made his Test debut on June 20, 2011, while Sharma followed suit on November 6, 2013. Their consistent presence has been a hallmark of Indian cricket, and their recent retirements from the format in May 2025 have left fans grappling with the reality of a new era.

The empty rows in the stadium during the first two days of the match serve as a stark metaphor for the “star power vacuum” that has emerged in Indian cricket. This situation has reignited discussions around the sustainability of Test cricket in a country where the format has traditionally enjoyed immense popularity.

The Impact of Star Power

Virat Kohli has long been an advocate for the preservation of Test cricket, often emphasizing the need for classic venues that can attract weekday crowds. His argument resonates now more than ever, as the lack of marquee players has seemingly diminished the allure of the longest format. The empty stands in Ahmedabad have led many to question whether the current structure of Test cricket in India is sustainable without its star players.

The Indian cricket landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years. The rise of T20 leagues, particularly the Indian Premier League (IPL), has shifted the focus of fans and players alike. The IPL’s fast-paced, high-scoring matches have captivated audiences, often overshadowing the slower, more strategic nature of Test cricket. This shift raises concerns about the future of the format, especially as younger players step into the spotlight.

India’s Dominance on the Field

Despite the lack of fanfare in the stands, India showcased its dominance on the field. Winning the toss, the West Indies opted to bat first, hoping to set a challenging target. However, the Indian bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, dismantled the West Indies batting order, restricting them to a mere 162 runs. Siraj’s early breakthroughs and Bumrah’s incisive spells highlighted the depth of India’s bowling attack.

In response, Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul laid a solid foundation. While Jaiswal failed to convert his start, Rahul’s resilience shone through. Captain Shubman Gill also contributed significantly, scoring a half-century and guiding India to a commanding first-innings lead. The team’s performance on the field, however, did little to draw fans to the stadium, further emphasizing the disconnect between the game and its audience.

The Future of Test Cricket in India

The empty stands in Ahmedabad have prompted a broader conversation about the future of Test cricket in India. As the cricketing landscape evolves, the challenge lies in attracting fans back to the longest format. The Indian cricket board may need to reconsider its approach to scheduling and marketing Test matches, particularly in light of the changing preferences of younger audiences.

Historically, Test cricket has been the bedrock of the sport, showcasing the skills and endurance of players over five days. However, the rise of shorter formats has led to a decline in attendance and interest in Test matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faces the daunting task of reviving interest in a format that has been overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of T20 cricket.

Conclusion

The empty stands at the Ahmedabad Test serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing Test cricket in India. With the retirement of stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the cricketing landscape is undergoing a transformation. While India continues to perform well on the field, the question remains: how can the sport rekindle the passion of its fans for the longest format? As cricket evolves, it is crucial for stakeholders to find innovative ways to engage audiences and ensure the survival of Test cricket in a rapidly changing environment.