Michael Vaughan advocates for Two-Tier Test cricket system to revive format's relevance

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has stirred fresh debate in the cricketing world by advocating a two-tier structure for Test cricket, suggesting that the format needs a clearer narrative to sustain relevance and viewership in the modern era. Speaking during England’s recent one-off Test against Zimbabwe, Vaughan emphasized that the current World Test Championship (WTC) setup lacks clarity and engagement for fans.

Vaughan, known for his astute cricketing insights, pointed out the disparities in the number of matches played by different nations within the WTC cycle. This imbalance, he argues, confuses the average spectator and dilutes the meaning of the rankings and qualifications for the WTC Final.

“It’s very confusing if you look at the number of games South Africa have played compared to Australia, India, or England,” Vaughan told BBC Sport. “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. I’d just like it to be a lot clearer. I’d have two leagues.”

Vaughan’s proposed two-division format would see top-tier teams like India, England, Australia, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand in one group, competing regularly against each other. The second division could comprise teams such as West Indies, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ireland, and Zimbabwe, who would fight for promotion and exposure.

Such a setup, Vaughan believes, would allow for more consistent competition among the top nations while also providing a tangible development path for emerging teams.

“Test cricket needs more of a narrative. At the minute, it's very confusing, and it's very hard for the public to understand,” he added.

ICC exploring structural changes

Vaughan’s remarks echo broader discussions already underway within the International Cricket Council (ICC). According to a report by The Age, the ICC is actively exploring a two-tier structure, with implementation potentially following the conclusion of the current WTC cycle in 2027.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah has reportedly discussed the concept with major cricketing boards, including Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), indicating that the idea is gaining traction at the highest levels.

The proposal comes at a time when many cricket boards are struggling to maintain player interest in the red-ball format. The rise of T20 leagues around the world has drawn talent away from Tests, with players often prioritizing financially lucrative short-form contracts over longer commitments.

Vaughan argues that the tiered system might incentivize stronger performances and renew interest in the format by ensuring that high-quality Test cricket remains both competitive and coherent.

“A two-division structure could be the key to Test cricket’s survival in the modern age. It offers a clear pathway, rewards consistency, and ensures competitive cricket,” Vaughan concluded.