The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to review a new idea for the World Test Championship. It may allow one-off Test matches to count in the next cycle. The move is part of a plan to expand the tournament to 12 teams.
An ICC working group will present its ideas soon. The group is led by Roger Twose. It is expected to submit its report to board members later this month or in early May.
The group was formed last year to improve cricket’s structure. The sport faces heavy pressure from busy schedules. There are three formats and many franchise leagues.
Earlier, the group suggested a two-division system for the WTC. That idea was not accepted by several Full Member boards.
Now, the group plans a new model with 12 teams. This version will include Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Ireland. These teams have Test status but were not part of the WTC when it began in 2019. They have had few chances to play against the top nine teams.
The new plan also allows single Test matches to earn points. This could help smaller teams play more games. It could also help bigger boards manage costs.
At present, a WTC series must have at least two Tests. Many boards feel this is not profitable when they host smaller teams.
The nine current teams arrange their matches through bilateral deals. Each team plays three home and three away series in two years. One-off Tests could make it easier to include the new teams.
For example, Zimbabwe could host a single Test when teams travel to South Africa. England could also fit in a one-off Test during a busy home season and still offer WTC points.
Officials say the board must now decide two things. They must see if one-off Tests should count in the WTC. They must also check if the new teams can afford a full two-year cycle.
The ICC is also working to fix its next board meeting. It was delayed due to the crisis in the Middle East. The meeting was planned in Doha but moved online in a limited way.
A new in-person meeting is being planned. The date and venue are not fixed yet.
