(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
ICC’s Two-Tier Test Cricket Proposal Faces Pushback from ECB and Other Cricket Boards
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is exploring the introduction of a two-tier Test structure for the next cycle of the World Test Championship (WTC), but the proposal has met significant resistance, particularly from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
The concept, discussed at the ICC’s annual conference in July, is currently under review by a special working group led by Roger Twose of New Zealand Cricket. This group is tasked with evaluating ways to enhance the WTC ahead of its next edition, which begins in July 2027.
Although the two-tier Test format has been proposed multiple times over the past decade, it has struggled to gain consensus. The latest discussions have reignited concerns among Full Member nations, particularly around potential relegation risks and the impact on revenue and traditional rivalries.
ECB Expresses Concerns Over Historic Rivalries
ECB Chairman Richard Thompson voiced strong opposition to the idea, particularly the possibility that top cricketing nations might miss marquee matchups if placed in a lower division.
“We may go through a fallow period, and that means, what, we fall into Division Two and don’t play Australia or India? That couldn’t happen,” Thompson told BBC’s Test Match Special. “Common sense needs to play out here.”
While Thompson acknowledged that the World Test Championship has added value to the format, he stressed that scheduling improvements might be more effective than introducing a divisional structure. “The WTC could work better than it does,” he said. “Maybe you don’t need two tiers; what you need is a schedule that makes more sense—for both red-ball and white-ball cricket.”
Mixed Reactions from Other Cricket Boards
Meanwhile, Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg offered a more measured response, suggesting that any changes must strengthen the global Test ecosystem.
“If a two-tier system helps grow opportunities for other countries in Test cricket, then I’m open to it,” Greenberg said during an interview with SEN Radio. “But if it weakens them further, I wouldn’t be supportive.”
Greenberg emphasized the importance of supporting mid-tier and emerging nations, such as Pakistan, West Indies, South Africa, and New Zealand. “It’s in everyone’s interest to see these countries remain competitive. They need support to stay strong in Test cricket,” he added.
What Lies Ahead
With media rights negotiations for the 2027–31 cycle approaching, the future structure of Test cricket is becoming a key issue. The ICC working group is expected to deliver its final recommendations in the coming months. These proposals could have a long-lasting impact on the format, finances, and global competitiveness of the traditional red-ball game.
