Steve Waugh Defends ODI Format, Calls World Cup 'Olympics of Cricket'

Former Australian captain Steve Waugh has strongly defended the continued relevance of One Day Internationals (ODIs), asserting that the quadrennial World Cup serves as the 'Olympics of cricket' and drives global enthusiasm for the format. Despite increasing competition from shorter versions like T20 and the potential rise of T10, Waugh notes that ODIs remain significant, as demonstrated by the record viewership of the 2023 World Cup. He acknowledges the challenge of accommodating multiple formats but believes the current system is functioning effectively. Waugh also highlighted cricket's upcoming return to the Olympic Games in 2028 as further evidence of the sport's enduring appeal. Additionally, he criticized the dominance of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in revenue distribution and called for equal pay for all Test players, regardless of nationality. Waugh praised India's Jasprit Bumrah as one of the top bowlers of the modern era, while also recognizing the country's strong pace-bowling reserves.