Archive · 31 Jul 2025
Pakistan Opposes Two-Tier Test Cricket System Proposal
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is thinking about splitting the top teams in cricket into two groups, like a first and second division.
Pakistan is not happy about this plan.
They're worried that they might end up in the second group because they haven't been doing well in recent games.
They believe that playing against the best teams helps everyone get better, and this new system might make it harder for the smaller teams to improve.
Pakistan is reportedly opposing the ICC's proposed two-tier Test cricket system.
The proposal could divide Test-playing nations into two divisions of six teams each.
A special ICC committee, including the ICC CEO, is exploring the system.
Pakistan, currently ranked seventh, may be relegated to the second division.
The PCB fears the system will hamper the progress of developing cricket nations.
- Who
- Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) opposes it, along with the ICC.
- What
- Pakistan opposes a proposed two-tier system in Test cricket.
- When
- The proposal could be tabled by the end of 2025, and the system may come into force from the 2027-2029 World Test Championship cycle.
- Where
- The ICC is discussing the system.
- Why
- PCB believes the system will hinder the progress of developing cricket nations and is against the 'growing dominance of elite cricketing nations'.
ICC/Elite Cricket Nations
Pakistan/Smaller Cricket Nations
System Benefits vs. Progress
ICC/Elite Cricket Nations
May support two-tier system to improve the competitiveness or financial aspects of Test cricket.
Pakistan/Smaller Cricket Nations
Against two-tier system, fearing it will limit opportunities for lower-ranked teams and hinder their progress.
- Proposed System
- Two-tier Test cricket
- Divisions
- Two, each with six teams
- Pakistan's Rank
- Seventh in ICC Test rankings
- WTC Cycle
- 2027-2029 (potential implementation)
- PCB Stance
- Opposes the system