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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering a major format change to Test cricket by introducing four-day matches in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2027–29 cycle, officials confirmed.
The traditional five-day Test format will remain intact for the 2025–27 WTC, but the ICC is exploring the four-day option to make red-ball cricket more viable, especially for lower-ranked teams with limited resources.
This proposal was reportedly discussed during recent ICC meetings at Lord’s, held alongside the WTC Final between South Africa and Australia. ICC Chairman Jay Shah is among those backing the idea.
The push for shorter matches stems from concerns over the physical, mental, and financial demands of five-day Tests. A four-day match – with 98 overs per day – would allow more Test series to be played within tighter international schedules, making room for expansion.
If approved, a two-tier model could emerge, according to reports, the “Big Three” – India, England, and Australia – will continue playing five-day Tests among themselves, preserving marquee events like the Ashes, Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
However, for 17 of the 27 Test series scheduled in 2025–27 – mostly two-match series – the shorter format could make future cycles more flexible and inclusive.
While the idea raises concerns over match results and viewer interest, the ICC believes the change could help expand red-ball cricket’s reach, especially in countries where it’s struggling to survive.
Editor at Times of Karachi
