The International Cricket Council (ICC) has shown readiness to back four-day Test matches in the World Test Championship (WTC), replacing the traditional five-day format. This change aims to help smaller cricketing nations play more matches and series.
The announcement comes shortly after South Africa won the WTC final against Australia at Lord’s, ending their long wait for a major global cricket trophy. This victory has added excitement to the discussions about the future of Test cricket.
Currently, the WTC 2025-27 cycle will continue with the traditional five-day Tests. It features 27 Test series involving nine teams, with many series having only two matches. England, Australia, and India will play longer five-match Test series among themselves.
Last week, ICC Chairman Jay Shah expressed support for four-day Tests during the WTC final at Lord’s. The new format could be introduced in the WTC 2027-29 cycle, allowing smaller teams to better manage their schedules and costs.
However, marquee series like the Ashes and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy would remain five days long. England, Australia, and India would still play five-day matches for these prestigious trophies.
The ICC had earlier approved four-day Tests for bilateral series, with England hosting Ireland and Zimbabwe in such matches. Four-day Tests allow extended playing hours, making it possible to finish matches faster while keeping the excitement alive. This move aims to keep Test cricket competitive and accessible worldwide.