Some players do give a toss

New Delhi – Proposals to scrap the time-honoured tradition of a coin toss prior to Test matches defy logic and should not be considered, according to several former South Asian cricket captains.

A ritual since the first Test between Australia and England in 1877 risks extinction when the Cricket Committee of the International Cricket Council (ICC) meet in Mumbai later this month.

Scrapping the toss is seen as reducing “home advantage” that often results in host nations rolling out pitches doctored to favour their players.

ESPNcricinfo reported the briefing notes circulated ahead of the May 28-29 meeting mention that more than one committee member believed a visiting captain should be free to decide whether to bat or bowl without the need of a coin toss.

“I’m actually at a loss to make any sense,” former Indian captain Bishen Singh Bedi told the Times of India newspaper.

“First of all, why would you even want to tinker with a century-long tradition?” the spin great asked.

Former Australian captains Ricky Ponting and Steve Waugh have backed a move to scrap the toss, while West Indies pace great Michael Holding also felt it would encourage an even contest between bat and ball.

Former Pakistani captain Asif Iqbal, however, is opposed to the idea which, he fears, would take excitement out of the game.

“I am not in favour of scrapping the toss,” he said.

“Every visiting team will also be hosting tours and be having the home advantage. To be the best and top team in the world ranking you need to win both at home and more importantly away from home.”

The “elements of surprise, doubts and knowledge” would be taken away if the toss was discontinued, Iqbal said. –