James Sutherland backs proposed two-tier Test, ODI League

James Sutherland backs proposed two-tier Test, ODI League

Cricket Australia chief executive has given has backing for the proposed two-tier Test, ODI league by the International Cricket Council (ICC). In the recently concluded annual conference of ICC, these two topics were the most talked about. The proposition was to make Test two division league, with the top seven teams in the first bracket and the bottom five teams in the other bracket. As for ODIs, the idea proposed was of a league of 13 teams. Nations like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have publicly opposed the Test proposal, while heavyweights like India, Pakistan and West Indies are reportedly unsure about the idea. ALSO READ: ICC: Two divisions in Test cricket and new one-day league in pipeline

Speaking about these proposed ideas, Sutherland was quoted by cricbuzz saying, “Test cricket is the oldest most traditional form of international cricket .It is highly valued and deserves to be treated with the utmost respect.”

“But we cannot hide from the realities of modern day cricket, which sees three formats of international cricket and thriving domestic Twenty20 leagues. We are very supportive of a Test Championship and league structure that will drive significant additional interest in Test cricket series.”

He also went on to back the proposed ODI format. “One-day cricket continues to be important and the recent World Cup in Australia and New Zealand highlighted to us again just how powerful context is in driving fan support and interest. In between World Cups though there is an opportunity for cricket to create a genuine league that includes a World Cup qualification process, ensuring that every ODI match counts toward something meaningful.”