Islamabad, 27 March 2025: A new report by the World Cricketers’ Association has warned that international cricket is in jeopardy due to the growing influence of T20 leagues.
The six-month study highlights concerns over the existing structure and proposes key changes to ensure the sport’s long-term sustainability.
The report suggests that specific windows should be allocated for international cricket, reducing clashes with T20 leagues.
It recommends four short international windows each year while allowing domestic leagues to fill the remaining calendar.
Additionally, it proposes a divisional structure for all three formats, introducing promotion and relegation over a two-year cycle.
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Committee chair Paul Marsh acknowledged that while cricket has seen some positive developments, it stands at a crossroads.
He stressed that discussions on these challenges are necessary for a sustainable future beyond a few dominant nations.
The study, based on insights from 64 stakeholders—including administrators, commercial partners, and players such as Jos Buttler, Heather Knight, and Pat Cummins.
It argues that the ICC requires modernization, with many key figures showing little engagement with the report’s findings.
Notably, contributions from Indian cricket’s leadership were minimal, with only one Indian Premier League executive participating.
The report also highlights the financial imbalance in the sport, pointing out that England, India, and Australia control 83% of global revenue.
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It calls for a fairer revenue distribution model and a global development fund to support emerging cricketing nations.
Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan emphasized the importance of cricket’s global growth, urging decision-makers to act on the report’s recommendations.
Meanwhile, discussions continue over a possible two-tier Test Championship, a move that remains highly contentious.
The report suggests structured reforms, including a stable calendar and financial changes, to help international cricket coexist with T20 leagues and secure its future.
