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[Saba Sports News] Ravi Shastri has advocated for a two-tier system in Test cricket. Speaking at the inaugural World Cricket Connects event at Lord’s Cricket Ground, the former India coach suggested that a promotion and relegation system could make Test cricket more engaging.
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) revealed Shastri’s proposal, highlighting his call for a competitive Test structure to maintain interest. Shastri also emphasized the financial importance of T20 cricket and the ICC’s role in managing the Future Tours Programme, suggesting that T20 World Cups should be the focus instead of bilateral series.
Shastri discussed the shifting power dynamics in cricket, noting India’s rise in dominance and the need for the BCCI to share resources more generously. He also highlighted the economic realities of modern cricket.
Graeme Smith, in the same discussion, noted that Test cricket is primarily played by six nations and advocated for a strategic approach to its future, cautioning against oversimplified solutions like creating dedicated windows for the format.
The event brought together influential figures in cricket to discuss opportunities and challenges. Sanjog Gupta from Star & Disney India stressed balancing commercial interests with regulatory measures and improving the fan experience. Ramiz Raja of the Pakistan Cricket Board highlighted the financial struggles due to lack of bilateral series with India and the success of the Pakistan Super League.
Andrew Strauss discussed cricket’s potential inclusion in the Olympics to reach new audiences, while Venky Mysore of Kolkata Knight Riders emphasized globalizing cricket brands and fan bases. Greg Barclay, ICC Chair, highlighted the need for collaboration to address the unsustainable pace of the cricket calendar and economic challenges.
The event was attended by chairs and CEOs from ICC full members and associate nations, IPL team CEOs, broadcast leaders, and cricket legends like Kumar Sangakkara, Graeme Smith, and Brendon McCullum.