ICC Plans Two-Tier Test Cricket Structure from 2027

The future of Test cricket may see a significant change with the ICC considering a two-division league format starting in 2027, which would include promotion and relegation among teams, potentially shortening the Big Three's home-and-away cycle and reinforcing their dominance. This proposal, driven by cricket's commercial interests and led by ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta, has raised concerns about the impact on the traditional and emotional value of Test cricket, which remains cherished despite fluctuating attendance. Meanwhile, England's recent Test victory over India has highlighted a shift in England's approach to the game, with a more combative and aggressive on-field attitude encouraged by coach Brendon McCullum, signaling a departure from their usually polite demeanor. Historically, Test cricket has seen only two tied matches, with the 1960 Australia vs. West Indies game standing out as a rare and thrilling example of the game's unpredictability. Looking back, India faces pressure in their upcoming Test at Old Trafford, where they last suffered a heavy innings defeat in 2014, dominated by England's bowlers James Anderson and Stuart Broad, underscoring the challenge India must overcome in Manchester. These developments illustrate both the evolving format and competitive dynamics within Test cricket, reflecting tensions between commercial interests, tradition, and national rivalries.