ICC Considers Four-Day Test Matches for Smaller Nations

Proposed Changes to Test Match Duration

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is contemplating a reduction in the length of Test matches, potentially limiting them to four days. This change is expected to apply primarily to smaller cricketing nations, while major teams like England, India, and Australia may retain the traditional five-day format.

Rationale Behind the Decision

According to a report from a prominent news source, this decision stems from ongoing requests for an increase in Test matches in less prominent cricketing countries. However, logistical challenges regarding time and expenses have made it difficult to accommodate these requests. As a result, the ICC is likely to shorten the match duration while increasing the number of overs played each day.

Support for Four-Day Tests

"During discussions last week at the WTC final at Lord's, ICC chair Jay Shah reportedly voiced his support for four-day Tests, aiming to implement them by the 2027-29 WTC cycle."

Five-Day Matches for Major Series

"Countries like England, Australia, and India will still have the option to organize five-Test series for prestigious tournaments such as the Ashes, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the newly named Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which kicks off with the first Test between England and India at Headingley this Friday."

Adjustments to Overs in Four-Day Tests

Typically, a Test match consists of ninety overs bowled each day. Under the proposed changes, this number would increase to ninety-eight overs per day to compensate for the reduced match duration. The report elaborates on this adjustment:

"Many smaller nations hesitate to host Test matches due to the extensive time commitment and associated costs. Transitioning to four-day cricket would allow a complete three-Test series to be completed in under three weeks. The playing hours would be extended to ensure a minimum of 98 overs are bowled daily, addressing the time constraints. South Africa's limited schedule, despite their recent victory in the World Cup final against Australia at Lord's, has underscored the urgency for this change."

Previous Approval for Four-Day Tests

It's worth noting that the ICC had previously sanctioned four-day Tests in bilateral series back in 2017. Recently, England played a four-day match against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, following similar encounters with Ireland in 2019 and 2023. However, the format for the upcoming 2025-27 World Test Championship will remain unchanged.