I'm not averse to relaxing the rules on qualification... or even (as a short term fix rather than a long term solution) to the idea of allowing 1-2 places in every Test side to be open to "overseas" players (something suggested by an Aussie ex-player a couple of years ago). That said... {a} I don't see that the gap is so huge (especially given the struggles of several much vaunted Aussie youngsters in County Cricket).. and {b} what's really needed is a broad minded approach to developing young players of ALL nationalities.

We've had suggestions that County Cricket sides should have to include at least 5 young (under 25) England qualified players: this should be revised down to 4 young England qualified player plus one YOUNG overseas player(with cash incentives for fielding players from the weakest Test nations).

Aussie cricket seems to being on the Aussie youngsters OK but once again the rules should require each side to field at least one young player from overseas (with cash incentives for fielding players from the weakest Test nations).

There should NOT be any UPPER limit to fielding overseas youngsters: if a side WANTS to give young Test stars of the future an extended run in the side they should be thanked by all who care about cricket... and NOT told that there are obstacles to doing this.

Beyond that, Academies should cease to be "national": the Australian and ECB Academies are excellent... but (rather like a university taking in overseas students) should cater for youngsters of all nationalities - they should be "privatised"... becoming reliant on boards funding players to attend... with youngsters all getting equal treatment irrespective of who they might go on to represent.