The much-debated two-tier World Test Championship (WTC) model seems unlikely to materialise, as the International Cricket Council (ICC) is leaning towards allowing all 12 full-member nations to compete in the next WTC cycle starting mid-2027. Currently, nine full members participate in the championship, while Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, and Ireland remain excluded despite holding full-member status.
An assessment group led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose explored the possibility of introducing a two-tier system. Still, the idea did not gain enough traction during the ICC’s recent quarterly meeting in Dubai. According to sources close to the development, the majority of members felt a 12-team structure would provide more balance and inclusivity across Test-playing nations.
“There was a discussion on the two-tier system, but certain members were not convinced about the model. It was felt that a 12-team system should be tried out since it gives every nation more chances to play against each other,” a source told PTI.
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The main resistance reportedly came from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the West Indies, and Bangladesh, who risked being relegated to the second division under the proposed system. Some top boards also raised concerns about the financial and reputational consequences of potential relegation. “Even some of the stronger nations were sceptical — if a top side goes through a rough phase and gets demoted, it affects both revenue and exposure,” the source added.
If this reporting is correct – and a Roger Twose-led working group has helped thwart two-tier men’s Test cricket and instead paved the way for a 12-team World Test Championship – then this’ll count as a wonderful day for the sport.https://t.co/ETvWAcgIOd pic.twitter.com/KZQrXa0eLL
— Michael Appleton (@michelappleton) November 11, 2025
England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief Richard Thompson echoed similar sentiments earlier, expressing concerns over the instability such a model could cause. “We wouldn’t want, as England, to go through a fallow period and drop to Division Two — meaning we wouldn’t play against Australia or India,” Thompson told the BBC.
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Meanwhile, the ICC is also considering reviving the ODI Super League, which was discontinued after the 2023 World Cup. Initially designed in 2020 to add context to bilateral 50-over cricket, the 13-team format failed to sustain momentum. However, several board representatives believe ODI cricket still has strong viewership potential if given a clear structure and purpose.
“The response to ICC’s 50-over events shows there’s still space for ODIs,” a delegate noted. “We just need to ensure proper scheduling, team participation, and context to keep the format alive.”
