ECB and Cricket Australia disagree over ICC’s proposed two-tier Test cricket structure for the 2023-24 season.

08
Aug

The ICC has proposed introducing a two-tier World Test Championship (WTC) system, dividing teams into two separate groups. This proposal has sparked a strong disagreement between two of cricket’s biggest boards—the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket Australia (CA).

The ECB is firmly opposed to the two-tier WTC format, fearing that relegation could push England out of the same group as Australia and India, potentially costing them their most lucrative and historic rivalries.

Last month, the ICC formed a working committee, led by former New Zealand batsman Roger Twose, to examine various aspects of the WTC and explore ways to enhance the competition ahead of the next cycle starting in July 2027.

At the ICC’s annual meeting in July, the two-tier system was a key topic of discussion. Twose, representing New Zealand Cricket on the ICC Board, is expected to present his recommendations to the board soon.

ICC: ECB Opposes Two-Tier Test Cricket System

The idea of a two-tier Test cricket system—where teams are promoted or relegated based on performance—has been under discussion for over 15 years. However, ECB chairman Richard Thompson has expressed reservations, warning that such a system could undermine the prestige of major bilateral series, even if it might boost overall competitiveness in Test cricket.

Thompson pointed out that with the calendar already crowded by numerous T20 leagues, Test cricket is struggling to maintain its global relevance. While acknowledging ongoing debates about a two-tier format, he emphasized concerns over the financial impact on cricket boards that rely heavily on marquee Test series such as the Ashes or high-stakes matches against India.

“We have many options to consider, and tiers might be one of them. But as England, we cannot afford a ‘fallow period’—falling into Division Two and missing out on contests against Australia or India is simply not an option. Common sense has to prevail here,” Thompson told BBC TMS.

Instead of adopting a two-tier structure, the ECB chairman believes the World Test Championship (WTC) should be improved. ICC, He admitted the current WTC faces challenges, particularly with its scheduling, but remains optimistic that a better, more balanced calendar—featuring both Test and white-ball formats—will strengthen the competition.

CA CEO Todd Greenberg Urges Bigger Nations to Support Smaller Teams: Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg highlighted the importance of bigger cricketing nations aiding smaller ones to sustain the health of Test cricket. He stressed that countries like India, England, and Australia must help nurture strong domestic systems in emerging cricket nations.

Greenberg emphasized that maintaining the competitiveness of teams such as South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand, and the West Indies is vital for the overall strength and global appeal of the Test format.

“My perspective is open when it comes to initiatives that help these countries grow stronger and improve their Test cricket resources. If such measures accomplish that, I am supportive. But if they don’t, or if they have adverse effects, then I would oppose them,” Greenberg told ESPNCricinfo.

He added that conversations with CEOs from the West Indies and other boards reflect a shared openness to change, recognizing the need for reforms to unlock greater value in this part of the game.

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