ICC to Introduce 4-Day Test Matches in 2027-29 WTC Cycle

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is making a bold move to reshape the future of Test cricket by introducing four-day Test matches in the upcoming 2027-29 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. This strategic decision is designed to support smaller cricketing nations by enabling them to host longer series and play more Tests without the logistical and financial strain associated with traditional five-day matches.

ICC Chair Jay Shah voiced his strong backing for this initiative during discussions at the recent WTC Final at Lord’s. The ICC plans to officially sanction four-day Tests starting from the 2027-29 cycle, providing much-needed flexibility in the international cricket calendar.

However, this new format will not apply to cricket’s ‘Big Three’ nations—India, Australia, and England. These countries will continue to play the traditional five-day Test matches, particularly in marquee series like the Ashes, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the newly named Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The first Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test will be held at Headingley, Leeds on June 17, 2025, between England and India.

Why Four-Day Tests?

Four-day Tests aim to reduce the burden on smaller nations where hosting lengthy five-day series often proves costly and logistically challenging. By reducing one day, the ICC expects these countries to schedule full three-match series within a shorter time frame, potentially under three weeks. To compensate for the shorter duration, playing hours in four-day Tests will be extended, with a minimum of 98 overs scheduled per day instead of the usual 90 overs.

The introduction of four-day Tests also addresses concerns highlighted by South Africa’s limited Test schedule despite their recent championship win. This reform aims to broaden participation and maintain competitiveness across all Test-playing nations.

Current and Upcoming WTC Cycles

It’s important to note that the current World Test Championship cycle (2025-27) will continue using the traditional five-day format. This cycle commenced with Sri Lanka hosting Bangladesh in a two-match Test series. Out of 27 Test series scheduled among nine countries in this cycle, the majority will be two-match contests, with only a few three-match and five-match series. England, Australia, and India will each play five-Test series against one another, maintaining the traditional format for these high-profile encounters.

This upcoming shift by the ICC is a critical development aimed at sustaining and promoting Test cricket’s vitality globally. By balancing tradition with innovation, the ICC hopes to create a more inclusive and manageable Test calendar benefiting all member nations.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news and developments by following our coverage on ICC’s evolving Test formats and the World Test Championship.