Divisions Emerge Among Full Member Nations Over Potential Two-Tier Test Championship

The concept of a two-tier Test Championship, a recurring topic in recent International Cricket Council (ICC) assemblies, may remain just an idea due to growing dissent from numerous full member countries, according to reports.

The primary cricket governing body recently formed a working group, helmed by former New Zealand batsman Roger Twose, to investigate improvements to the World Test Championship (WTC) prior to the commencement of its subsequent cycle in July 2027.

One of the main proposals considered during the ICC Annual Conference in July was the implementation of a two-division arrangement. Twose, representing New Zealand Cricket on the ICC Board, is anticipated to share suggestions shortly.

Discussions surrounding a two-tier Test structure have been ongoing for over 15 years, with the ICC demonstrating interest as far back as 2009.

Under the proposed system, the 12 teams would be separated into two divisions of six each, with the ‘Big Three’ joining South Africa, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka in the top tier. The second tier would consist of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and West Indies, along with Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, and Ireland, as these latter three teams are expected to be included in the expanded WTC version.

However, discord persists among full member nations due to the possibility of forfeiting chances to compete against the Big Three – Australia, England, and India.

The debate surrounding the suggested two-tier Test structure has garnered momentum amid conversations about revitalizing the format, particularly in nations outside of the Big Three.

A source familiar with the situation stated, “That can be accomplished not through frequent series among the Big Three, but by involving them in matches with other nations.”

Meanwhile, Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO Chris Dehring has voiced concerns about the proposed restructuring, emphasizing that the financial framework should be an essential element of the alteration.

West Indies board CEO Chris Dehring stated, “The CWI lacks a stance, as we have not engaged in any discussions or received any specifics (on the two-tier championship) beyond public conjecture. Our stance pertains to the financial model that underpins Test and other bilateral international cricket, which we deem inadequate and which must constitute a significant component of any reform.”

Last week, ECB chairman Richard Thompson also expressed apprehension regarding the proposed system, fearing that the relegation model might impede England’s capacity to consistently compete against traditional rivals Australia and India—two of its most profitable matchups.

Thompson told BBC’s Test Match Special, “We wouldn’t want, as England, to fall into Division Two and miss playing Australia or India if we undergo a lean period. That is simply unacceptable. Common sense must prevail.”

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly opposed the model during ICC meetings held in Singapore.

A PCB spokesperson conveyed, “The ICC’s Test schedule is set for the next two years. Therefore, it is premature to deliberate on this matter.”