Two-Tier Test system: New impetus but is it sustainable?

Two-Tier Test System: New Momentum but Is It Sustainable?

The two-tier Test system has gained significant traction, with Mark Nicholas, Chair of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), planning to present the concept to the World Cricket Connects Advisory Board. The board includes notable figures such as Jay Shah, Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and Michael Holding, Ravi Shastri, and Michael Vaughan, who have endorsed the idea.

The MCC group aims to become a leading symposium for strategic issues in cricket, establishing a consensus on ensuring cricket's future success. The meeting will be held prior to the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord's on June 6 and 7.

A proposed 9-6 Test league formula includes crossover matches, with each tier 1 country playing two tier 2 teams and tier 2 countries playing three tier 1 teams. This proposal hinges on granting Test status to three new nations: Netherlands, Scotland, and Nepal.

The Cricket Connects discussions will significantly impact the two-tier competition's prospects. However, ICC insiders claim the idea is not currently under consideration. The WTC final's sustainability in a two-tier system and the benefits for tier 2 teams are key topics of discussion.

Identifying and sustaining new teams in the Test league raises concerns. Most full members value Test cricket, but expenses deter some from actively participating. South Africa, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland, and possibly Bangladesh are not keen on investing in Test cricket.

Reactions to the two-tier system are mixed. Sumod Damodar of Botswana supports Test cricket but advocates careful consideration of the idea. Michael Holding welcomes the concept, while Clive Lloyd opposes it, fearing it would relegate lower-ranked teams to a lower section. Michael Vaughan and Ravi Shastri embrace the idea, emphasizing the importance of contests between the best teams.

The recent BGT series in Australia sparked renewed interest in the two-tier system. Packed stadiums during the Big Three matches demonstrate Test cricket's appeal at the highest level. However, making the Big Three permanent members of Tier 1 could raise fairness concerns.