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ICC Set to Expand World Test Championship to 12 Teams After Dropping Two-Tier Plan

The move follows an ICC review in Dubai that found a relegation model unworkable without new funding.

Overview

  • Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe are expected to join the 2027–29 WTC cycle, bringing all 12 full members into one division, according to multiple reports citing ICC meetings.
  • A working group led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose presented the recommendations to the ICC Board and Chief Executives’ Committee in Dubai last week.
  • Boards including West Indies, Sri Lanka and Pakistan opposed a two-tier structure, and talks over a financial model to support a lower division did not advance.
  • The expanded format is set to include a minimum-Test requirement per team that has not yet been finalized, and no additional ICC hosting funds are planned, raising feasibility concerns for smaller boards such as Ireland.
  • The ODI Super League is likely to be revived as early as 2028 to add context to 50-over cricket, and the ICC is not granting official international status to T10.