ICC likely to postpone two-tier Test proposal; Over-rate penalties under review

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly expected to postpone its proposed plan to introduce a two-division structure in Test cricket. Notably, the upcoming cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) will be played in its existing format despite speculation about a two-tier system.

The ICC had considered a two-tier structure to make Test cricket more competitive and engaging, especially among the top teams. The proposed format would split 12 teams into two divisions. The ‘Big 3’—India, Australia, and England—would compete against each other in two five-match series per cycle.

ICC Likely to Postpone Two-Tier Test Cricket Proposal

According to a report by The Guardian, the ICC will discuss the idea of introducing a two-division structure in Test cricket during its meetings in Zimbabwe this weekend. However, Cricket Australia’s proposal will not be put to a vote during these sessions.

"The ICC is understood to have concluded that more time is needed to consider the sporting and financial implications of what would be one of the most radical changes in Test cricket’s 133-year history, although it could return to the agenda when planning begins for the 2027-2029 cycle," the report read.

WTC 2025-27 Set to Continue With Nine-Team Format

The two-tier Test structure emerged from discussions between Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board during the Women’s Ashes in January. It would allow top teams like Australia, England, and India to face each other twice every three years rather than two series in four years.

However, the report added that the World Test Championship is likely to be played in the same nine-team format for the upcoming cycle rather than adding teams like Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe. The WTC 2025-27 cycle will kick off with the five-Test series between England and India in June.

Several Test-playing nations are not endorsing the two-division Test structure proposed by Cricket Australia. They want clarity on issues like financial distribution and how promotion and relegation would work. These concerns have delayed the plan from being put to a formal vote.

ICC to Discuss Over-Rate Penalty Changes

The ICC is also considering other changes to the WTC format. A revised points system, including bonus points based on the margin of victory and awarding additional points for wins against stronger teams or away from home, will be up for discussion.

A total of 12 points is currently awarded for all matches, which some argue disadvantages the “Big Three” (India, Australia, and England), as they play more high-stakes series against each other.

South Africa qualified for the 2025 WTC final without facing England or Australia. Their wins over West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, along with a draw and a loss to India, have raised concerns about the fairness of the qualification system.

Another topic is over-rate penalties. England lost 22 points due to slow over-rates and finished sixth in the standings despite having the third-highest win percentage (51.5%) behind only finalists Australia and South Africa. Six of the nine competing teams were penalized.

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