‘Unacceptable’: Justin Langer slams two-day Tests after Australia rout Bangladesh

Former Australian cricket star Justin Langer has expressed his disdain for the growing trend of Test matches concluding within two days, deeming it "unacceptable" following Australia's comprehensive 2-0 series win over Bangladesh in Mackay. The result comes after Australia's nine-wicket defeat in Darwin, leveling the two-match series at 1-1.

This marks the third occasion in the last seven Tests where Australia's contest lasted less than two days, sparking concerns about the longevity of the longest format. Langer, a former Australian opener who played 105 Tests for his country, believes the issue extends beyond pitch conditions and blames batting technique. He highlighted the economic impact, stating that ending matches early is detrimental to Cricket Australia's grassroots cricket initiatives.

Langer also pointed out that the players are now highly paid professionals, so they are understandably frustrated by the premature ending of matches. He attributed many dismissals to poor basic batting technique, particularly the front foot not going past the front line. Bangladesh's captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, acknowledged his team's lackluster performance but saw value in the experience gained.

He emphasized the need to adapt to challenging conditions in Mackay and called for more overseas Tests to help improve the team's skills.