The ICC is contemplating a redesign of the World Test Championship, set to commence with the next cycle in June 2025. This revised framework may introduce bonus points for wins achieved by significant margins, as well as assign greater value to victories secured away from home.

The third cycle of the WTC is scheduled to conclude this summer with the final match between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s. However, the ICC has faced criticism for a lack of transparency and perceived unfairness in the league stage, which has prompted this proposed change, according to The Telegraph.

The introduction of bonus points would mirror the format of various First Class domestic competitions, such as the Ranji Trophy and the Sheffield Shield. This adjustment aims to encourage teams to adopt a more aggressive style of play and to reward outstanding performances.

Additionally, the ICC aims to enhance the fairness of the tournament through this new system. Given the current structure, where not all ten teams compete against each other, the revised approach seeks to place a higher value on victories achieved in overseas series compared to those at home.

The proposed points system will be a topic of discussion at the ICC meeting in April. The goal is to create a more balanced competition, particularly in a cycle where India, Australia, and England participate in nearly twice as many matches as the other teams. Furthermore, there are plans to potentially implement a seeding system that would assign greater significance to victories against stronger opponents, while also complicating their path to success.

ECB critical of current system

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has openly criticized the existing structure of the World Test Championship (WTC), having not reached the final despite hosting the tournament on three occasions. Both the leadership and players have expressed their dissatisfaction, with captain Ben Stokes describing the format as "utterly confusing."

Additionally, ECB chairman Richard Thompson remarked, "The World Test Championship needs to be more equitable and competitive. Changes will be implemented to ensure that it consistently promotes the best teams to reach the final and encourages other nations interested in Test cricket to participate."

This criticism comes in light of concerns regarding South Africa's journey to the final, where they did not secure victories against their strongest competitors, India and New Zealand. Notably, South Africa managed to qualify for the final even after fielding a makeshift team during their tour in New Zealand.

Despite these challenges, the Proteas have an opportunity to claim the coveted ICC trophy, but they will need to overcome a formidable Australian side when the two teams meet in June.

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