Plans for Two-Tier WTC Shelved as ODI Super League Eyes Comeback

The much-debated proposal to introduce a two-tier structure in the World Test Championship (WTC) has reportedly been shelved, paving the way for discussions around reviving the ODI Super League — a move that could reshape the international cricket calendar.

For months, cricket boards and administrators have been in talks about reforming the WTC to ensure more competitive balance between teams. The proposed two-tier model aimed to split the nine Test-playing nations into two divisions based on performance, with promotion and relegation adding a new layer of stakes to the format. Supporters of the idea believed it would make each series more meaningful, while critics feared it would further marginalize lower-ranked nations by restricting their opportunities to face top-tier opponents.

However, recent developments suggest that consensus on the two-tier structure proved elusive. Smaller cricket boards expressed concerns over financial sustainability and reduced visibility if relegated to a lower division, while the larger boards worried about the scheduling and commercial implications of additional divisions. As a result, the idea has been quietly put aside — at least for now.

In its place, attention has turned toward reviving the ODI Super League, which had originally been introduced as part of the qualification pathway for the 2023 World Cup. The league featured 13 teams, each playing eight series — four at home and four away — to accumulate points toward World Cup qualification. Despite its success in giving meaning to bilateral one-day matches, it was discontinued afterward, leaving the 50-over format somewhat adrift in the international calendar.

Now, with growing concerns about the future of ODI cricket amid the T20 boom, the Super League’s revival is being seriously considered. The format’s structured competition, combined with its impact on qualification stakes, could help sustain interest and relevance in one-day internationals.

While discussions remain in their early stages, several cricket boards reportedly support the idea, viewing it as a practical solution to ensure that ODIs retain their global importance. It could also help bridge the gap between Test cricket’s prestige and T20’s commercial appeal — giving each format a clearer identity within the game’s crowded schedule.

If the ODI Super League does make a comeback, it could mark a shift back toward structured competition and away from purely bilateral scheduling. For now, the WTC will continue in its current form, but the debates surrounding the future of cricket’s formats — and how best to balance tradition with evolution — are far from over.

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.