The International Cricket Council (ICC), led by chairman Jay Shah, is exploring a two-tier Test cricket system to enhance the competitive nature of the longest format of the game. This idea has gained momentum following record-breaking attendance during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about the proposed system, including past reactions, expert opinions, and possible implications.
Why is a Two-Tier Test System Being Discussed?
The idea of a two-tier system resurfaced after the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia, which saw unprecedented crowd attendance and TV viewership. According to reports, the series attracted over 837,879 spectators, making it the fourth most attended series in Australian cricket history.
The ICC believes that by grouping top-tier teams, it can ensure frequent high-quality contests, attract more spectators, and increase revenue.
Key Figures Leading the Charge
- Jay Shah (ICC Chairman)
- Mike Baird (Cricket Australia Chair)
- Richard Thompson (England and Wales Cricket Board Chief)
A meeting is scheduled later this month among these officials to discuss the finer details of implementing the two-tier format.
Proposed Two-Tier Structure
The proposed format divides teams into two tiers based on their recent performance.
| Tier | Teams |
|---|---|
| 1st Division | India, Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka |
| 2nd Division | Bangladesh, West Indies, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, Ireland |
This structure aims to ensure that top-tier teams play each other more frequently, thereby providing high-stakes and exciting cricket for fans.
Promotion and Relegation
It remains unclear whether the proposed system will include promotion and relegation between tiers. However, the introduction of such a feature could maintain competitiveness in the lower tier, giving smaller teams a chance to rise.
Read Also:- World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27
Past Opposition to the Two-Tier System
This concept is not new. It was first proposed in 2016 but faced significant opposition from cricket boards of smaller nations, including Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, who feared it would marginalize them and reduce their revenue.
Anurag Thakur, then-president of the BCCI, had strongly opposed the idea, stating:
“In the two-tier system, smaller countries will lose out on a lot, including revenue and the opportunity to play against top teams. We want to work in the best interests of world cricket.”
Broadcaster and Expert Support
Despite past opposition, broadcasters and some experts now support the two-tier system, citing potential profitability and increased viewer engagement. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has been vocal about supporting the change, stating:
“If you want Test cricket to survive, the best teams should play against each other more often. This will ensure thrilling contests and keep fans engaged.”
England Test captain Ben Stokes had also criticized the current World Test Championship model and expressed interest in a format that promotes better competition.
When Will the Two-Tier System Be Implemented?
The proposed system, if agreed upon, is expected to be implemented after the current Future Tours Program (FTP) concludes in 2027. Interestingly, 2027 also marks the 150th anniversary of Test cricket. A celebratory match between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is already planned for that year.
Potential Benefits of the Two-Tier System
- More Competitive Matches: Top teams playing each other more frequently will enhance the quality of Test cricket.
- Higher Revenue: Broadcasters and sponsors are likely to show greater interest, boosting the financial health of cricket boards.
- Increased Fan Engagement: Frequent marquee matchups will draw more spectators to stadiums and increase TV viewership.
Concerns Raised
While the idea has merits, concerns remain about the fate of smaller cricketing nations. The fear is that they might lose exposure, revenue, and opportunities to play against stronger teams.
Smaller Teams’ Challenges
- Revenue Loss: Reduced matches against top-tier teams could impact their broadcast deals.
- Development: Limited opportunities to play stronger opponents might hinder their growth in Test cricket.
The two-tier Test cricket system, led by ICC chairman Jay Shah, is a bold proposal aimed at revitalizing the longest format of the game. While the idea has garnered support from broadcasters and experts, it faces challenges in ensuring inclusivity and fairness for smaller nations.
As discussions continue, the cricketing world awaits the final decision, which could reshape the future of Test cricket post-2027.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story.
