Chappell Advocates for Two-Tier Test System, Criticizes ICC’s Test Status Decisions

Former Australian cricketer Ian Chappell supports a two-tier system for Test cricket. At 81, he believes this change should have happened long ago. According to Chappell, only a few teams can compete in Test cricket over the long term.

Limited Teams Can Compete

In his ESPNcricinfo column, Chappell stated, “There should have been a two-tier Test system in place years ago.” He emphasized that only a small number of teams can sustain competitive Test cricket. He also criticized the West Indies, saying, “It’s criminal they’ve been allowed to languish” despite their ability to attract crowds.

Proposed Two-Tier System

There is now a proposal to split Test cricket into two divisions. This would create more high-stakes matches between top teams like India, Australia, and England. However, Chappell warned that this might hurt smaller teams. They could play fewer Tests, and it may harm the sport’s inclusivity.

Promotion and Relegation Criteria

Chappell believes a system of promotion and relegation would work if certain criteria are met. He pointed out that countries like Afghanistan and Ireland should not play Test cricket. He listed key requirements such as having a strong first-class competition, suitable grounds, and financial stability.

“If a team meets those criteria—and maintains a high standard of play over a number of years—then promotion to Test status would be legitimate,” he explained. However, he noted that most recent Test nations do not meet these standards.

Afghanistan and Ireland’s Test Status Under Scrutiny

Chappell questioned whether Afghanistan or Ireland should have Test status. He pointed out that Afghanistan is struggling with political instability, making it impossible to hold Test series. Similarly, he argued that Ireland lacks enough Test-standard grounds.

Chappell criticized the ICC for granting these nations Test status, saying they were given it for “valuable ICC votes on important issues.” He also stated, “The ICC is widely regarded as an event management company. They should add ‘and not a very good one.’”

Financial Hurdles for Smaller Teams

Chappell acknowledged that smaller nations face financial challenges. Running a four-day competition is expensive. This leads many countries to focus on T20 cricket, which is cheaper to organize. T20 competitions help cricket boards generate more money.

“It’s extremely expensive to run a four-day competition,” Chappell said. This is why T20 tournaments are more financially appealing for many nations.

Ineffective ICC Leadership

Ian Chappell also criticized the ICC’s leadership. He believes that poor governance has led to the rise of T20 cricket and the crisis in Test cricket scheduling. “Cricket being run by a competent ICC is a pipe dream,” he concluded.

In short, Chappell argued that the ICC’s mismanagement has contributed to the growing dominance of T20 cricket and the decline of Test cricket.