Pakistan to Resist ICC’s Two-Tier Test Plan at Upcoming Meetings

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is currently considering a new two-tier structure for Test cricket, but the proposal is already facing serious opposition—especially from Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a firm stand against this idea and plans to raise strong objections at the upcoming ICC meetings.

What Is the ICC Planning?

The ICC is discussing a new format where Test-playing nations would be divided into two separate divisions. The top six teams would be placed in the first tier, playing more matches, receiving greater media attention, and earning more money. The rest of the teams, including Pakistan in this scenario, could be placed in a lower tier with fewer games, reduced financial rewards, and far less visibility on the global stage.

Why Pakistan Is Concerned

According to sports journalist Saleem Khaliq, Pakistan sees this proposal as unfair and damaging to the true spirit of international cricket. PCB officials argue that such a move would create inequality, turning Test cricket into a closed group dominated by the strongest or richest nations—mainly India, Australia, and England, often called the “Big Three.”

The PCB believes that Test cricket should be a platform for all full-member nations, regardless of their current performance or financial power. Every team should have equal chances to compete in the ICC’s Future Tours Programme (FTP), which decides which countries play against each other and how often.

A Similar Battle Was Fought in 2016

This is not the first time the ICC has introduced such an idea. Back in 2016, a similar two-tier plan was proposed but eventually dropped due to strong opposition from countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe. They argued that it would damage the growth of the game and push smaller nations further behind.

Now, in 2025, the same idea is being discussed again. Reports suggest that some ICC members and major broadcasting companies are supporting the plan because they believe that matches between top teams are more profitable and attract bigger TV audiences.

PCB’s Response and Hopes for Support

The PCB is ready to formally oppose the plan once again. They believe this move will hurt the overall development of Test cricket, especially for countries that are still building their teams and infrastructure. Officials also worry that if this plan goes ahead, lower-ranked teams will get fewer opportunities to improve and stay competitive at the international level.

Pakistan is hoping that other full-member boards, especially those likely to be placed in the second tier, will stand with them. Countries that are not part of the “Big Three” may see this proposal as a threat to their future in Test cricket.

What’s at Stake?

The upcoming ICC meetings will be very important. If the two-tier structure is approved, it could change the way Test cricket is played and viewed around the world. The next cycle of the Future Tours Programme is being finalized soon, so the decisions made in these meetings will have a long-term impact.

For Pakistan, this is about more than just how many matches they get to play. It’s about protecting the future of Test cricket for all nations, not just a few powerful ones. The PCB wants to make sure that the traditional format of the game stays open and fair, giving every team a chance to shine.

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