Shorter Format Aimed at Boosting Test Cricket Among Smaller Nations
In a major move to promote Test cricket globally, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly planning to introduce four-day Test matches from the 2027–29 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The decision is aimed at helping smaller cricketing nations play more Test matches and host longer bilateral series with reduced costs and time commitments.
Big Three—India, England, and Australia—May Still Play Five-Day Tests
Despite the push for four-day Tests, India, England, and Australia are likely to continue playing traditional five-day matches, especially in marquee series like the Ashes or India vs Australia. As per the current WTC structure, 27 bilateral Test series are to be played, with 17 of them comprising just two matches and only six series set to feature three Tests. Five-match contests remain exclusive to top-tier rivalries.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah Supports Format Change
According to a report by The Guardian, ICC Chairman Jay Shah has backed the idea of four-day Tests for bilateral series. Hosting five-day matches is often financially taxing for smaller cricket boards, and the shift could allow them to participate more regularly in the longest format of the game.
Angelo Mathews Backs More Test Cricket for All Nations
Veteran Sri Lankan all-rounder Angelo Mathews has expressed disappointment over the limited Test opportunities for teams outside the “Big Three.” Sri Lanka, for instance, is scheduled to play just four Tests in 2025.
“I think it’s quite sad to be honest. The younger generation is hungry for more Test cricket. It’s the pinnacle of the sport, and we need to push for more matches,” said Mathews.
“Teams like England, India, and Australia play 15 or more Tests a year. Why can’t we? We’ve won World Cups and contributed to the sport globally. We deserve to play just as much,” he added.
A Brief History of Four-Day Tests
The ICC first approved four-day Test matches in 2017 when South Africa hosted Zimbabwe. Since then, England has played two four-day matches against Ireland in 2019 and 2023, and also hosted Zimbabwe in a similar format. In these matches, 98 overs are scheduled per day, compared to the traditional 90 overs in five-day Tests.
South Africa Wins WTC Final, Claims First Global Title Since 1998
In other Test cricket news, South Africa defeated Australia in the final of the World Test Championship at Lord’s, claiming their first major ICC title in over two decades. The Temba Bavuma-led side became the third nation to win the WTC after New Zealand and Australia.
