While the shorter versions of the sport have become hugely popular in recent years, Test matches remain the undisputed pinnacle of cricket.
The Test arena is where the bulk of cricketers aspire to play, but only a select few are talented enough to reach those dizzy heights.
Announcements for Test match squads always generate plenty of interest, with fans debating the merits of the players picked and those who have been omitted.
With that in mind, we look at four players who we believe should be featuring in Test match cricket in the future.
Photo courtesy of NT Franklin from Pixabay.
Umran Malik
In a recent Betway column, former England star Kevin Pietersen waxed lyrical about the possibility of Umran Malik playing for India’s Test team.
Malik has repeatedly clocked above 150kph in the Indian Premier League this season, which makes him a scary proposition for every batsman.
West Indies legend Ian Bishop joined Pietersen in praising Malik, saying his pace ‘distinguishes him from every other bowler around the country’.
Using him in short bursts could be devastating at Test level and it would be no surprise to seem him handed an opportunity by India this summer.
Marcus Harris
Marcus Harris was omitted from Australia’s squad for their upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, but it could prove to be a blessing in disguise.
The left-handed opener now has the opportunity to play more county cricket for Gloucestershire and he will be keen to build on an impressive start to the season.
He has hit 434 runs in the County Championship at an average of 48.22 this season – impressive statistics in a team that has been struggling for results.
With Usman Khawaja and David Warner in good form for Australia Harris may have to remain patient, but a recall for the 2023 Ashes series is not beyond the realms of possibility.
Harry Brook
Newly-appointed England captain Ben Stokes has already tipped Brook to be a Test star of the future and it is difficult to argue with his viewpoint.
Brook hit his seventh half-century in eight first-class innings against Lancashire in his most recent outing, finishing with an unbeaten 82.
His aggregate this term is currently 758 at an average of 151.6 and it would be a major shock if he is not in the England squad for their upcoming series against New Zealand.
While Brook still has room for improvement against spin bowlers, he is exactly the type of young talent England need in their Test squad.
Henry Brookes
With several of England’s fast bowling options struggling with injuries, the door is open for someone to step into the Test squad, make their mark and dominate the live cricket streams.
Plenty of pundits have been talking up Henry Brookes, although the Warwickshire pacer may have to wait a little while for his opportunity.
Brookes has the ability to swing both the old and new ball, while the speed of his deliveries is up there with the best in the business.
Having also notched a career-best 84 runs with the bat, Brookes is undoubtedly one to watch over the coming months.