T20 needs eight runs for a big hit, says Jones

MUMBAI: Dean Jones, in his day one of the biggest-hitting batsmen in cricket, has called for fresh innovation in Twenty20 by creating a new eight-run shot if the ball goes more than 85 metres.

T20 has already brought about a revolution and the Australian legend told AFP the traditional five-day Test faces a fight for its survival as crowds move to the 120-ball game.

Rules must change to make the game even more relevant to today’s fans, according to Jones — one of the most recognisable television commentators in cricket with his cry of “going, going, gooooone” each time a batsman hits a six.

“The only innovation I’d like to see is that we are very good with technology, so every six hit over 85 metres should be an eight,” Jones said on the sidelines of the Star Sports Select Dugout programme.

Jones’ case is that big-hitters can increase the spectacle of T20 if the added incentive is there.

“They love Chris Gayle and all these boys that hit (the ball) miles. Same in golf, they love Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy who hit 350 meters,” said Jones.

“If the game is on the line and they want eight and hit it over 85 metres, and you are hoping Gayle, (Andre) Russell or (Kieron) Pollard is there, it goes for eight.”

Jones said traditional Tests will have to fight for their survival against T20’s runaway success as a growing numbers of players specialise in the format.

“Test doesn’t get your arousal levels up as (much as) a T20 match,” said Jones. “Come down to the wire, 15 off the last over, how many times does that happen in Test cricket?”