Why Test cricket continues to charm

Australia v India: 3rd Test - Day 4

2) Different locations offer different challenges

A champion batsman on the turners of the subcontinent may well prove to be a disappointment in the swinging conditions of a Trent Bridge match. Jimmy Anderson is a beast at home, but not an insurmountable threat outside. Herath can fox the best in Sri Lanka but has not been as successful outside. Different locations and tracks provide the chance for new heroes. Rare is the batsman or bowler who performs splendidly everywhere. Of course, exceptions such as a certain D W Steyn exist.

This is the major reason why the ratio of away teams winning Test matches has stayed in the range of 20-30% for the past 100 years. The variety of turn, swing, bounce that each venue provides adds to its attached history and gives it context. It cannot be always said which of 2 teams is better. South Africa drubbed Sri Lanka 3-0 at home but were thrashed 2-0 in Sri Lanka. This makes it harder for a team to be universally accepted as the best; to be the greatest Test team, the team must truly be special.