ICC Considers Four-Day Test Matches for Smaller Nations

Proposed Changes to Test Match Format

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is contemplating a shift to four-day Test matches, primarily aimed at smaller cricketing nations. In contrast, major cricketing countries such as England, India, and Australia are expected to maintain the traditional five-day format.

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

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

The report further elaborates that,

"England, Australia, and India will still have the option to organize five-Test series of five-day matches for events like 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 on Friday."

Revised Overs in Four-Day Tests

Typically, a Test match consists of ninety overs bowled each day. Under the new proposal, this count is set to increase to ninety-eight overs to compensate for the reduced match duration. The report indicates that,

"Many smaller nations hesitate to host Test matches due to their lengthy nature and associated costs. Transitioning to four-day cricket would allow a complete three-Test series to be conducted in under three weeks. In four-day Tests, the playing hours will be extended to ensure a minimum of 98 overs are bowled each day, rather than the usual 90, to address the time constraints. South Africa's limited schedule, despite being crowned world champions in a thrilling final against Australia at Lord's last week, has underscored the urgency for reform."

It's worth noting that the ICC had previously approved four-day Tests for 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 2025-27 World Test Championship will remain unchanged.