More teams, bigger stakes: ICC plans WTC expansion

In what could reshape the future of Test cricket, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering expanding the World Test Championship (WTC) from nine to twelve teams for the 2027 cycle , with Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe set to be included. The proposal, put forward by a working group led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose , also suggests allowing one-off Test matches to count towards WTC points, a move that could significantly alter how the championship is played.

Currently, the WTC operates on a two-year cycle where teams earn points from bilateral series, but standings are determined by the Points Percentage System (PCT) rather than total points. This means teams are ranked based on the percentage of points won out of the total points contested, ensuring fairness despite uneven schedules. At the end of the cycle, only the top two teams qualify for the final , making consistency crucial.

This system often leads to sharp shifts in rankings , where even a drawn match or a single loss can impact a team’s position. A side playing fewer matches can still qualify if it maintains a high win percentage, while others must consistently perform to stay ahead. The inclusion of one-off Tests could further influence this balance, giving smaller teams valuable chances to impact the standings and challenge established sides.

There is also a larger competitive and commercial angle to this move. Stronger teams like India could play shorter or one-off series against emerging nations, helping them gain exposure while also contributing to the global growth of Test cricket. However, it remains to be seen how scheduling will be managed in an already crowded calendar filled with three formats and expanding franchise leagues.

The final decision rests with the ICC Board chaired by Jay Shah. If approved, the expansion could make the WTC more inclusive, dynamic, and globally competitive , giving the longest format a much-needed boost.