WTC Expansion Update: ICC Plans 12-Team Format

Cricket’s global structure could be set for a major shift, with ICC plans for WTC expansion gathering momentum ahead of an upcoming board meeting. The governing body is exploring the possibility of increasing the World Test Championship to 12 teams while also allowing one-off Test matches to count towards the competition.

An ICC working group, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, is expected to present its recommendations to board members later this month or in early May. Twose was tasked last year with identifying ways to improve the sport’s competition structures amid growing scheduling pressures.

Revised WTC expansion proposal

The latest proposal focuses on expanding the WTC from its current nine teams to 12, bringing Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Ireland into the fold. Despite holding Full Member status, these three nations have not been part of the WTC since its launch in 2019 and have had limited opportunities to play Test cricket against established teams.

A previous suggestion to split the WTC into two divisions was rejected by several Full Member boards in November. The working group has now shifted its approach towards a single expanded league.

One-off Tests under consideration

A key recommendation under discussion is allowing one-off Test matches to count towards WTC points. At present, series must consist of at least two Tests, which some boards consider financially unviable—particularly when hosting smaller nations.

The proposed change aims to make scheduling more flexible. For example, teams like Zimbabwe could host one-off Tests against touring sides en route to neighbouring countries, while nations such as England could accommodate standalone fixtures during busy home summers that already feature long series.

Financial and scheduling challenges

The ICC faces two critical questions before finalising any changes: whether one-off Tests should be included in the WTC framework, and whether it is financially sustainable for Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Ireland to commit to an expanded Test schedule over a two-year cycle.

Cricket’s packed calendar—balancing three international formats alongside an expanding franchise league ecosystem—has intensified the need for structural adjustments.

ICC meeting timeline

The proposals are expected to be discussed at a rescheduled ICC board meeting. The original meeting, planned in Doha, Qatar, was postponed due to the crisis in the Middle East and replaced with limited online discussions.

An in-person meeting is now being planned, although the final dates and venue are yet to be confirmed.

What this means

If approved, the proposed changes could significantly reshape Test cricket by increasing participation and improving scheduling flexibility. Expanding the WTC to 12 teams would offer greater opportunities for emerging nations, while one-off Tests could make fixtures more financially viable and easier to organise.

The outcome of the upcoming ICC discussions will play a crucial role in determining how Test cricket evolves in an increasingly crowded global calendar.

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