Former England captain Michael Vaughan has voiced strong support for introducing a two-tier system in Test cricket to secure its future. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly discussing this structure, which would incorporate promotion and relegation, during a meeting this month. Vaughan’s sentiments were echoed by former India coach Ravi Shastri, who believes such a system is essential to preserve the red-ball format amidst the growing dominance of T20 franchise leagues.
Speaking after the Australia-India Test series, which the hosts won 3-1 in front of packed stadiums, Vaughan emphasized the need for innovation in Test cricket. Writing for The Telegraph and The Sydney Morning Herald, he proposed a four-day match structure, a minimum of three matches per series, and two divisions comprising six teams each. Shastri agreed, stating that the biggest teams should face each other more often to sustain interest in Test cricket.
ICC Explores Two-Tier Plan
The ICC’s potential shift to a two-tier system could come into effect after the current Future Tours Programme ends in 2027. According to sources, the new structure aims to ensure more competitive matches and reduce mismatches between top and lower-ranked teams. Vaughan expressed optimism about the plan, which could result in the Ashes being played twice every three years.
However, Vaughan acknowledged challenges ahead, noting that significant adjustments would be required before the 2027 timeline. The ICC has previously explored a similar concept, including a premier league of the top seven teams in 2016. However, this was abandoned after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opposed the idea, citing concerns over its impact on smaller cricketing nations.
Balancing Tradition and Competition
While the two-tier proposal is designed to make Test cricket more relevant, it faces opposition from stakeholders concerned about the implications for less prominent teams. In 2016, the BCCI argued that smaller nations would suffer financially and competitively under such a system.
Nonetheless, both Vaughan and Shastri maintain that fostering regular high-stakes matches between top teams is key to Test cricket’s survival. The ongoing discussions underscore the ICC’s efforts to adapt the format to modern demands while retaining its traditional appeal.
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