Test cricket is set for a new era in more ways than one. The ICC Test Championship begins with the Ashes early next month with each bilateral Test series now counting for points.
The top nine sides will compete for points over a two-year cycle before a final to decide the Test champion in 2021. Not only that, the ICC has also introduced names and numbers on jerseys so that players can be identified more more easily on the field.
On Monday, England‘s Ashes Test jersey was revealed with Joe Root sporting the number 66 on his back, along with his name.
England Test captain Joe Root.
Earlier this month, Australian Test squad members were seen in their new kits with names and numbers on the back of the jersey.
Needless to say, this marks yet another major change in Test cricket following the advent of day-night matches.
The five-Test Ashes series begins at Edgbaston on August 1, just weeks after England lifted their maiden World Cup title at Lord’s.
Australia Test squad members.