The International Cricket Council (ICC) is exploring a potential overhaul of the World Test Championship (WTC), with the introduction of semi-finals emerging as a key idea during recent discussions.
At the ICC’s annual conference in Edinburgh, officials debated several structural changes aimed at making international cricket more competitive and engaging. Among them, the proposal to add semi-finals to the WTC has reportedly gained notable traction.
What changes could come to the WTC?
Currently, the World Test Championship is played over a two-year cycle, with the top two teams in the standings qualifying directly for the final. The proposed change would introduce semi-finals, allowing more teams to remain in contention deeper into the cycle.
The move is being evaluated by an ICC working group led by Roger Twose. One of the broader goals of the group is to expand participation and competitiveness by integrating emerging cricket nations such as Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe more effectively into the structure.
Adding semi-finals could:
- Increase the number of meaningful matches late in the cycle
- Keep more teams in contention
- Boost fan engagement and broadcast value
Other major format changes under discussion
The WTC proposal is part of a wider set of potential reforms across formats.
1. ODI World Cup restructuring
There is a proposal to reduce the Cricket World Cup from 14 teams to 12, alongside the introduction of a “Super Seven” stage. This format could be implemented as early as the 2027 edition, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
2. T20 World Cup expansion tweaks
Changes are also being considered for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with the current “Super Eight” stage potentially expanding into a “Super 10” format. This could allow more teams to progress into the later stages of the tournament.
These proposals reflect the ICC’s broader effort to balance competitiveness, commercial appeal and global expansion.
Focus on development and inclusivity
Beyond tournament structures, the ICC also made important decisions regarding development initiatives.
The governing body confirmed the continuation of its Development Pathway Programme for Afghan refugee women cricketers. This initiative aims to provide opportunities, training and competitive exposure to players who have been displaced.
The ICC also reconstituted its Special Task Force to oversee the programme and develop a roadmap for these players to enter official qualification pathways by 2030.
New members joining the task force include:
- Dr Ros Rivaz (Independent Director)
- Sarah Keane (Chief Executives’ Committee member)
They will work alongside representatives from major boards such as the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board.
What it all means for the future of cricket
The idea of introducing semi-finals to the World Test Championship signals a shift toward making Test cricket more dynamic and commercially viable without compromising its traditional format.
While no final decisions have been made yet, the discussions indicate that the ICC is actively exploring ways to:
- Increase global participation
- Improve tournament competitiveness
- Enhance fan engagement across formats
If implemented, WTC semi-finals could mark one of the biggest changes in Test cricket’s modern era, potentially redefining how the longest format of the game is structured and consumed.