ECB opposes two-tier WTC over concerns of being relegated

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has expressed reservations about a possible introduction of a two-tier structure for the World Test Championship (WTC), driven primarily by concerns over preserving England’s traditional high-profile rivalries against Australia and India. ECB chairman Richard Thompson spoke candidly on the matter, emphasising that England cannot risk being relegated to a lower division where marquee series are no longer guaranteed.

“We wouldn’t want, as England, we may go through a fallow period, and that means, what, we



fall into Division Two and we don’t play Australia and India? That couldn’t happen. There has to be a sense that common sense needs to play out here,” Thompson told BBC’s Test Match Special.

India, England, and Australia are often dubbed the “Big Three” of cricket, contesting Test series that span five matches and generate significant fan interest and commercial revenue. Recent contests like the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and the 2023 Ashes highlighted the intensity and drama that these rivalries produce, with both series ending in thrilling draws.