Cricket: England set for one-day experiment

ENGLAND will test an experimental format for limited overs cricket, under which the match is played over four innings instead of two, when they begin their tour to Australia next month.

Officials announced yesterday that the tourists have agreed to play the one-day fixture against Western Australia at the WACA, Perth, on 27 October under the amended rules.

'I am sure the concept will set a trend that will be readily adopted in Australia and eventually around the world,' Chris Smith, the West Australian Cricket Association chief executive and former Hampshire and England opening batsman said.

'We are very excited that England have accepted the invitation to play a leading role in the launch of this innovative concept on the international cricket arena,' Smith added.

Under the new rules, each team in a 50-overs-a-side match bats in turn for 25 overs. The innings resumes at the half-way mark, with the two not out batsmen returning to the crease.

The formula aims to increase excitement for spectators and ensure that one side does not gain an exaggerated advantage from changing playing conditions during the match.