Kumar Sangamara Ranatunga said that the franchise era of cricket has caused a decline in player technique and commitment to international play [1].

This critique highlights a growing tension between the commercial success of short-format leagues and the technical standards of Test cricket. As T20 leagues expand globally, the shift in training and priorities may fundamentally alter how the sport is played at the highest level.

Ranatunga said that the emphasis on explosive hitting in T20 cricket undermines the traditional techniques required for longer formats [1]. He said that the current landscape prioritizes immediate scoring over the disciplined approach necessary for international success.

"Technique is a casualty of franchise era," Ranatunga said [1].

The former captain said that the influence of these leagues extends beyond the batting crease. He said that T20 cricket undermines player technique and commitment in international cricket [1].

This shift in dedication often manifests in players prioritizing franchise contracts over national duties. The focus on high-scoring, short-duration matches encourages a style of play that may leave athletes vulnerable when facing the sustained pressure of multi-day matches.

Ranatunga said the systemic nature of the franchise model creates a disconnect between modern training and the historical requirements of the game [1]. By rewarding aggressive, high-risk shot-making, the model discourages the patience, and technical precision that once defined international batting standards.

“"Technique is a casualty of franchise era"”

The tension described by Ranatunga reflects a structural conflict within global cricket. As T20 leagues provide greater financial security and visibility than international Test matches, the incentive for players to master traditional, time-intensive techniques diminishes. This suggests a future where the 'specialist'—a player capable of batting for days—may become a rarity, potentially lowering the technical ceiling of international cricket in favor of entertainment-driven scoring.