India, Australia, and England are reportedly discussing a two-tier system for Test cricket to increase high-profile series among the “Big Three” nations. The proposal, which is gaining traction within the International Cricket Council (ICC), is led by chairman Jay Shah. According to The Age, Shah, Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird, and England Cricket Board chairman Richard Thompson will meet to explore the plan this month.
Under the proposed structure, the top tier would feature seven teams: South Africa, Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. The second tier would include the West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, Afghanistan, and Zimbabwe. This model was first suggested in 2016 but faced rejection from smaller cricket nations concerned about losing their Test status.
At the time, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also opposed the plan. Then, BCCI president Anurag Thakur argued that it would harm smaller nations’ interests, leading to its abandonment.
The concept has resurfaced as cricket’s leading nations push for more competitive Test matches. Broadcasters eager for higher viewership also support this proposal. They believe increasing matches among the “Big Three” will boost revenues and attract larger audiences.
While the idea gains momentum, smaller nations may again resist the changes, fearing exclusion from top-tier Test cricket.
