Two-tier WTC — The International Cricket Council (ICC) appears to have shelved plans for a two-tier World Test Championship, with reports indicating a shift towards an expanded 12-team WTC cycle starting from 2027. The move will bring Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe into the fold for the first time, ensuring all full-member nations are part of the Test championship.
Pakistan Leads Resistance Against Two-Tier Structure
According to PTI, the two-tier WTC concept faced strong opposition from several boards during the ICC’s recent quarterly meeting in Dubai. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), alongside Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the West Indies, raised objections to the proposed promotion-relegation model, which would have seen them begin in the lower division.
Concerns Over Financial and Competitive Impact
Officials from other boards also expressed caution, worried about the financial and broadcast consequences if a major Test-playing nation faced relegation due to a poor run of form. The ICC’s special assessment group, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, had explored ways to make the Test format more competitive, but the lack of consensus halted progress.
ICC Eyes Inclusive 12-Team WTC Format
Instead, the ICC now looks set to adopt a 12-team round-based WTC for the next cycle (2027–2031), allowing every full-member Test nation to participate. The current WTC includes only nine teams, leaving Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe out of the competition.
This change aims to increase global participation in Test cricket and provide smaller nations with regular exposure to elite opposition, though scheduling complexities remain a challenge.
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