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"Test Cricket Needs Narrative" Vaughan Backs Two-Tier Structure For WTC

Aakash Saini

Micheal Vaughan and Team India [Source: @TOI, @BCCI/X]Micheal Vaughan and Team India [Source: @TOI, @BCCI/X]

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has backed the idea of introducing a two-tier Test cricket structure for World Test Championship (WTC). On Day 1 of England’s ongoing one-off four-day match against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, Vaughan said that Test cricket needs “more of a narrative” as the current system seems to be “very confusing” for the public.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah has reportedly discussed the possibility of introducing a two-division system in WTC with Cricket Australia (CA) as well as with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Vaughan backs two-division system

While speaking on BBC Sport, former England captain and expert commentator Michael Vaughan claimed that the current Test structure is “very confusing” for the fans to determine which team is the best in the world, considering all teams play different number of matches.

He said:

“I think it's very confusing if you look at the number of games South Africa have played compared to what Australia, India, or England have played. It's very hard for the average cricket fan to understand who's the best team in the world and how exactly the top two teams make it to the final.”

Vaughan urged for the inclusion of two leagues in WTC going forward to add “narrative” to Test cricket. He added:

“I'd just like it to be a lot clearer. I'd have two leagues. I just think Test cricket needs more of a narrative. At the minute, it's very confusing, and it's very hard for the public to understand.”

Recent reports indicate that there have been talks of injecting the two-division system into Test cricket after the conclusion of the current Future Tours Programme cycle in 2027.

Former Indian all-rounder and ex-coach Ravi Shastri has also backed the idea by voicing his support for the two-division proposal. Under the proposal, teams like India, Australia, South Africa, England, Pakistan, New Zealand and Sri Lanka will be placed in top tier while West Indies, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ireland and Zimbabwe will be placed in second tier.