A potential shake-up of Test cricket is on the horizon, with reports suggesting that a two-tiered system is being considered by cricket’s leading administrators.

According to Fox Sports, International Cricket Council (ICC) chair Jay Shah is scheduled to meet with Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird and England Cricket Board chair Richard Thompson this month to discuss the proposal.

The proposed structure, which could be implemented after the current Future Tours Program concludes in 2027, would divide Test-playing nations into two divisions.

This would allow the “big three” – Australia, England, and India – to play each other more frequently, potentially twice every three years, compared to the current twice every four years.

This move is driven by the significant financial success of marquee series like the Ashes and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which generate substantial revenue through increased attendance and broadcast deals.

While financially beneficial for the top teams, the two-tier system has sparked concerns about the impact on lower-ranked nations.

A theoretical structure places South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan alongside the “big three” in the top division, leaving countries like West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, Afghanistan, and Zimbabwe in the second tier.

Critics argue this could further marginalize these nations and limit their development opportunities.

The proposal has garnered mixed reactions. Former England captain Michael Vaughan expressed support, arguing it ensures the best teams play each other more regularly and reduces mismatches.

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Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of high-profile contests for the survival of Test cricket.

However, others have voiced concerns. The Telegraph UK’s Scyld Berry cautioned against oversaturation, suggesting that too many Ashes series could harm the format’s longevity.

Former Australian wicketkeeper Darren Berry acknowledged the potential benefits but questioned the criteria for dividing the teams and the potential commercial implications outweighing cricketing considerations.

The financial sustainability of Test cricket for less wealthy nations has also been a point of contention.

Outgoing ICC chair Greg Barclay previously questioned the viability of Test cricket for countries like Ireland and Zimbabwe, suggesting they should focus on grassroots development and shorter formats.

This is not the first time a two-tier system has been proposed. In 2016, a similar idea was rejected after opposition led by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which cited concerns about the negative impact on smaller cricketing nations.

However, with Jay Shah now at the helm of the ICC, the proposal appears to have gained renewed traction. The upcoming meeting will be crucial in determining the future of Test cricket.