The future of Test cricket could see a significant restructuring, with discussions underway about creating a two-tier system. According to The Age, the initiative is being led by ICC’s new chair Jay Shah, who is collaborating with Cricket Australia’s Mike Baird and ECB’s Richard Thompson. The trio is scheduled for a crucial meeting this month to discuss this potential transformation.
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Viewership record by Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
The proposal has gained momentum following the exceptional success of the recent Border-Gavaskar series between Australia and India, which achieved record-breaking attendance figures (ranking fourth-highest in Australian cricket history) and reportedly set new broadcast viewership records for Test cricket.
The proposed restructuring would allow cricket’s “Big Three” – Australia, England, and India – to face each other more frequently. Instead of the current schedule of bilateral series every four years, these nations could potentially meet twice every three years. This aligns with former India coach Ravi Shastri’s advocacy for more frequent high-profile Test matches, addressing his concerns about the current schedule being too crowded.
When is it expected to start?
If implemented, this new two-division structure would take effect after 2027, coinciding with the conclusion of the current Future Tours Program. Notably, 2027 will also mark a historic moment with the 150th anniversary Test match between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The reorganization aims to prioritize matches between top-tier cricket nations while potentially affecting the frequency of matches with other Test-playing countries. However, the specific details about how this would impact other cricket nations and the broader international cricket calendar are still under discussion.
