Greenberg Suggests Test Cricket Not For All Nations

KARACHI: Cricket Australia’s (CA) CEO, Todd Greenberg, cautioned that the current Test cricket schedule could potentially lead several nations towards financial ruin, according to recent reports in the international media.

During a media interaction, Greenberg highlighted that if every cricket-playing nation were to pursue Test status, it would create significant financial strain, possibly leading to insolvency.

“Scarcity in Test cricket is beneficial, not detrimental,” Greenberg stated.

“It may be acceptable that not every nation in world cricket needs to aim to participate in Test cricket.”

“We risk financially crippling countries if we compel them to engage in Test cricket.”

Greenberg further advocated for increased investment in prominent Test series such as The Ashes, asserting that its relevance would ensure continued profitability.

“We should focus on investing in areas of Test cricket that hold significance and stakes,” Greenberg added.

“The enduring popularity and profitability of series like the Ashes stem from their inherent importance.”

Greenberg’s comments arise amidst discussions concerning a two-tiered structure for the longest format of the game.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently formed a working group, headed by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, to investigate enhancements to the World Test Championship (WTC) before the commencement of its next cycle in July 2027.

The proposed model suggests dividing the 12 teams into two divisions of six each, with the ‘Big Three’ joined by South Africa, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka in the top tier. The second tier would include Pakistan, Bangladesh, and West Indies, along with Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, and Ireland, assuming the latter three are included in an expanded WTC format.

However, full member nations remain divided on this proposition, fearing a reduction in opportunities to compete against the ‘Big Three’ – Australia, England, and India.