The ongoing third Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar trophy stands at a pivotal point. The third day, commonly referred to as the 'moving day', lived up to its expectations. Tempers flared, words were exchanged, and the umpires found themselves in the eye of a rather unusual ball controversy. But amidst all the drama, a considerable amount of playing time has been lost across all three days. 

The age-old issue of slow over-rates in modern-day Test cricket has once again come to light. In the first two days, a lot of time was spent addressing Pant's injury. Not to mention, countless requests for ball changes were also made, which resulted in a significant loss of time. Only a total of 83 overs were bowled on day one, even after a 30-minute extension. On day two, that number dropped further to 75, falling well short of the minimum requirement of 90 overs. 

See also: ENG vs IND 3rd Test Day 3: Full Highlights and Key Moments

Vaughan's perspective on the lingering over-rate problem

Slow-over rate issue is not an unfamiliar problem in Test cricket. It has prevailed over several generations, and the authorities haven't been able to come up with a solid plan to tackle this pressing issue. Maintaining a healthy over-rate is imperative to ensure the continuity of the game, and failure to achieve that can have dire consequences on the longevity and popularity of the game.

Former England captain and commentator Michael Vaughan has come out to voice his opinion on this interesting matter. He slams India and England for showing a lack of urgency while sifting through the proceedings. During his interaction with BBC Sport, Vaughan took a cheeky dig at the two teams and downplayed the impact of imposing fines. Furthermore, he questioned how such offences are repeated time and again in red-ball cricket. 

“I don’t think fines work. I think these lads are quite rich. I don’t think the cash is going to affect them. Been a problem for Test match cricket for a while. I know it’s hot. I know we’ve had a few injuries, but when we get to the fifth day, we have to bowl the 90 overs.”

Furthermore, he added that there is no point waiting till the final day to adhere to the quota of a minimum of 90 overs. According to him, teams should comply with this regulation right from the get-go, i.e., day one. 

Here is Vaughan's solution

Vaughan is of the opinion that imposing financial penalties will not bring about a positive change in maintaining over rates. Improvement will be visible when the mandatory compliance is strictly reimposed. He highlights how players on the final day of the Test would be charged up and refrain from taking breaks as they would know that they need to bowl 90 overs.

You watch on day five when the players, the umpires, know that 90 overs have to be bowled. They’ll be running around. There won’t be as many drinks breaks, there won’t be as many delays... I’d make it very, very simple. You have to bowl the 90 overs. I would guarantee that would improve the pace.” 

Speaking of the current state of the third Test, India levelled England's 387 before getting bundled out. The Test is likely to continue for the next two days with plenty of high-intensity action in the offing.