ICC Postpones Two-Tier WTC Proposal, Set to Revamp Points System

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has decided to defer the much-debated proposal to split the World Test Championship (WTC) into two divisions. Instead, the governing body will focus on introducing significant changes to the points system for the upcoming 2025–27 WTC cycle. According to a report by The Guardian, the ICC will hold several meetings in Zimbabwe over the weekend to finalize these decisions.

Bonus Points and Away Wins to Influence New WTC Points Table

The ICC has long considered adopting a bonus points model similar to rugby union, where teams earn additional points based on the margin of victory. The proposed system would also reward teams for winning away matches and weigh victories based on the strength of the opposition. Officials believe these changes will make the points table fairer and reduce the imbalance that currently exists between top and lower-ranked sides.

At present, the WTC awards 12 points for a win, six for a tie, and four for a draw, regardless of opposition or conditions. Critics argue this system disadvantages teams like India, Australia, and England — the ‘Big Three’ — who contest more series against each other compared to others.

Over-Rate Penalties and Single-League Format to Stay

Alongside points system changes, the ICC will review the issue of over-rate penalties. Six of the nine teams in the ongoing WTC cycle have faced point deductions for slow over-rates. England lost 22 points in total, slipping to sixth despite recording the third-best win percentage behind South Africa and Australia.

Meanwhile, the ICC has chosen to continue with the single-league WTC format for now. Cricket Australia’s proposal to divide Test-playing nations into two divisions will not move to a vote this weekend. The governing body reportedly needs more time to assess the sporting and financial consequences of such a restructure.

WTC 2025–27 Cycle to Begin with India’s England Tour

The upcoming WTC cycle begins this June when India faces England in a five-Test series. The ICC has decided to maintain the existing nine-team structure through to 2027. The two-division plan may resurface ahead of the 2027–29 WTC cycle, but several member boards have expressed concerns it would widen the gap between the ‘Big Three’ and other Test-playing nations.

For now, the cricketing world awaits official confirmation from the ICC meetings, with a significant points system overhaul expected to shape the future of the World Test Championship.

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