Ravichandran Ashwin has reignited the discussion around Virat Kohli's suggestion from several years ago to fix India's Test venues, urging the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider the proposal. The former India captain's idea of having a select number of Test centers has gained traction after recent matches drew sparse crowds.

Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel 'Ash ki Baat', emphasized that Test centers are not just about attracting crowds but also about ensuring familiarity with the conditions. He highlighted the problem that every surface in India has a different identity, which can make it difficult for players to adjust. He isn't against holding matches in cities like Guwahati or Ranchi, but he notes that the lack of consistent bounce in the eastern part of the country can lead to "very ordinary Test match pitch[es]".

The veteran spinner stressed that the chosen Test centers should have the best pitches to give the Indian team a genuine home advantage. He said that some venues are better than others simply because the pitches are better and the team is used to the conditions. "Otherwise, the only point is you are playing within that Indian map as home, but it is not home," Ashwin stated.

Kohli's original statement, made in October 2019, called for India to have just five permanent Test centers. He argued that while rotating venues is fine for T20 and one-day cricket, Test teams should know where they are going to play and what kind of pitches to expect. He also said that these fixed venues would create a more predictable atmosphere in terms of crowd support.

The discussion about Test centers comes amid concerns about low attendance during the recent India-West Indies series. While Delhi had a decent turnout, the massive Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad appeared deserted during the first Test.

There are varying opinions on the matter. While Ashwin supports the idea of designated Test venues, he had previously refrained from commenting on whether India should adopt the model, calling it "above his pay grade". In the past, he has also acknowledged the benefits of having multiple Test centers, including giving opportunities to cricketers from every corner of the country.

Dinesh Karthik has pointed out that Test cricket has a stronger following in smaller towns than in Tier 1 cities. He explained that the rotation system in India ensures that about 34-36 state associations get an opportunity to host matches.

If India were to implement the five-Test center plan, it would follow the lead of countries like Australia and England, who typically play Test matches at a limited number of venues. Australia often plays Tests in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, while England uses venues like London, Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, and Edgbaston.

The advantages of having fixed Test centers include familiarity with the conditions, which can lead to better performances. Teams can also expect challenging conditions and intense atmospheres at these venues.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to implement the five-Test center plan rests with the BCCI. Ashwin has urged the board to prioritize pitches when allotting Test status, emphasizing the importance of home advantage.