Two-Tier Test System: Revolutionizing Cricket's Future

The ICC is working with cricket boards from India, Australia, and England to explore a two-tier Test system, aiming to facilitate more series among the top cricketing nations. Discussions involving ICC chair Jay Shah and cricket chairs from Australia and England are set to take place later this month. The changes could be implemented post-2027.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), in tandem with cricket boards from India, Australia, and England, is investigating the feasibility of introducing a two-tier Test system. This initiative aims to promote more frequent series involving the sport's elite nations.

According to The Age, Jay Shah, the new ICC chairman, is expected to meet with Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird and his England counterpart Richard Thompson later this month to delve into the details of this proposal. Should plans proceed, the changes would be enacted following the conclusion of the current Future Tours Program in 2027.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing for its Special General Meeting on January 12 in Mumbai, where interim secretary Devajit Saikia may assume a permanent position. This topic arose during ICC discussions as far back as 2016, yet faced opposition from BCCI, Zimbabwe, and Bangladesh over revenue loss concerns. Nonetheless, as cricket evolves, even prominent figures like Ravi Shastri advocate for this restructuring to ensure Test cricket's longevity.

(With inputs from agencies.)