Archive · 3 Aug 2026
Cullinan Calls for Dedicated Specialist Squads in Cricket
Daryll Cullinan, a former South African cricketer, says that today’s players are expected to play three very different types of cricket: the long Test matches, the one-day games, and the short T20 games.
He thinks this is too hard because each type needs different skills.
He points to India’s recent trip to England, where players came straight from the IPL and struggled.
Cullinan says coaches now focus on hitting big shots instead of learning solid technique.
He believes cricket boards should create separate teams and training for each format so players can be better prepared and the game stays fair.
Cullinan argues that a single batter excelling in Test, ODI, and T20 is no longer realistic.
He cites modern scheduling, commercial demands, and T20‑centric coaching as reasons for the decline.
India’s 2023 tour of the UK is used as an example of players lacking Test‑specific preparation.
Cullinan criticizes current coaching for prioritizing power‑hitting over foundational technique.
He calls for specialist squads, coaching, and development pathways tailored to each format.
- Who
- Daryll Cullinan, former South Africa batter and columnist
- What
- Argues for dedicated specialist squads for Test, ODI, and T20 formats
- When
- Monday (date unspecified)
- Where
- New Delhi, India
- Why
- To preserve the integrity of cricket amid modern scheduling and commercial pressures
- Proposed Change
- Specialist squads for each format
- Main Argument
- Multi-format batters are no longer achievable
- Key Example
- India's tour of the UK
- Target Audience
- Cricket administrators and boards
- Author
- Daryll Cullinan