There has been talk for some time about introducing a two-tier system in Test cricket, with the top six nations in one group and the remaining six nations in another. Meanwhile, Cricket Australia (CA) chief executive Todd Greenberg has come out against playing extra Tests, warning that the current system of Test cricket could bankrupt any country.
Recently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has formed a ‘working group’ to discuss the introduction of a two-tier structure in the Test format. Meanwhile, Aussie CEO Greenberg has expressed his opinion in favor of introducing a new structure, saying, ‘The low number of matches in Test cricket is a blessing, not a curse for us. I don’t think every country in the world should dream of playing Tests. We are actually bankrupting some countries by forcing them to play Tests.’
Greenberg called for more investment in competitions like the prestigious Ashes series between England and Australia. The Ashes will be held on Australian soil in the 2025-26 season. There are only 100 days left until the start of which. The two teams have already started preparations for the traditional series. A few days ago, England and India played the Sachin-Ander series. Cricket analysts believe that the thrilling series is the best example of Test cricket. Which ended in a 2-2 draw.
On the other hand, Australia won all three Tests in the West Indies at about the same time, showing one-sided dominance. In addition, New Zealand won the series easily by defeating Zimbabwe by an innings as well as by a large run margin. As a result, Aussie CEO Greenberg compared organizing such a series with a big team to a bankruptcy situation. According to him, ‘We need to ensure that Test cricket is played in a place where it has value, competition and uncertainty.’
“That’s why the Ashes is such a big event and it’s profitable. So there’s a good reason to have a series like that,” Greenberg added. The rise of franchise leagues and shorter formats like The Hundred in T20 has created challenges for Test cricket, with players earning big contracts in domestic cricket and the world cricket schedule becoming more complex.
FAQ
Who made the warning about the current Test cricket system?
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg made the warning.
What is the main concern expressed by Todd Greenberg?
He believes the existing Test cricket structure could financially harm, or even bankrupt, some cricket boards.
What solution does Greenberg suggest?
He supports a two-tier Test system where only the top nations play more Tests, while others focus on shorter formats.
Why does he think fewer Test matches are better?
Greenberg says that a smaller number of competitive and valuable Test matches helps maintain interest and financial sustainability.
