ICC mulls two-tier test format

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has begun its annual meeting in Singapore, with a key proposal on the agenda to restructure the Test format into a two-tier system.

The new format, if approved, would take effect in the 2027–29 cycle.

Under the proposed structure, the top six ranked teams would compete in Tier 1, while the next six — including Bangladesh, West Indies, Afghanistan, and Ireland — would be placed in Tier 2. Teams in Tier 1 would play each other twice over three years, with promotion and relegation mechanisms in place between the tiers.

The proposal has gained strong backing from England and Australia. However, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka have expressed opposition, citing concerns over competitive balance and financial impact. The matter was previously discussed at an ICC meeting in Zimbabwe and has now returned for a potential vote following a review of its implications.

Other items on the meeting's agenda include: Expanding the T20 World Cup from 20 to 24 teams starting in 2026; Granting ICC associate membership to East Timor; Lifting the six-year suspension on Zambia; Finalizing qualification criteria for the six-team cricket event at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Newly elected ICC Chairman Jay Shah is presiding over the four-day meeting.