Pakistan has decided to oppose the proposed two-division structure for Test cricket, rejecting what it sees as a move to strengthen the dominance of a few top-tier nations in the traditional format of the game, according to media reports.

 

Media reports say that early discussions among top PCB officials emphasized that cricket is a global sport and all nations deserve equal opportunity. "If smaller teams don't play against stronger sides, how will their performance improve," one official said, as per a source, adding that Pakistan hopes other nations will support its stance when the matter goes to vote.

 

The move comes in response to a proposal currently being considered by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which has formed an eight-member working group led by Sanjog Gupta to explore the introduction of a two-division Test structure. The group includes figures like England’s Richard Gould and Cricket Australia’s Todd Greenberg, and is expected to submit recommendations to the ICC Board by the end of the year.

 

The proposed system, if approved, could be implemented during the 2027 to 2029 World Test Championship cycle. It would replace the current nine-team format with two divisions of six teams each, requiring a two-thirds majority from ICC’s 12 Full Members for approval. The concern is that promotion and relegation could leave lower-ranked nations with limited opportunities to face stronger opposition.

 

Under current rankings, Australia, South Africa, England, India, New Zealand and Sri Lanka occupy the top six spots and could be placed in Division One. Meanwhile, teams like Pakistan (ranked 7th), West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe risk being relegated to Division Two.

 

Reports added that PCB stressed their opposition is not based on self-interest. “We’re thinking beyond ourselves,” said one official. “Even if Pakistan moves up in rankings and secures a spot in Division One, what about West Indies or Bangladesh? How will they improve if they are left to play only among themselves?”

 

The PCB also addressed criticism that it has not given importance to Test cricket. The board clarified that the national team will play nine Test matches in 2026, offering a chance to improve its rankings and compete with higher-ranked teams.

 

While only five Tests are scheduled for Pakistan this year, including a recent loss in Cape Town to South Africa and a 1-1 home series draw against West Indies, the upcoming calendar promises more. Two home Tests against South Africa are scheduled for October and November.

 

In 2026, Pakistan is set to tour Bangladesh in March and April, West Indies in July and August, play a three-match series in England in August and September, and host Sri Lanka for two Tests in November.

 

“Claiming we don’t value Test cricket is unfair,” the official added. “We’re building a strong Test calendar to ensure our team competes at the highest level.”

 

With growing concerns that the proposed two-tier system could widen the gap between cricket’s elite and emerging teams, Pakistan’s firm opposition is expected to resonate with other full members who may face similar risks.