Sri Lanka legend Arjuna Ranatunga has expressed concerns over the two-tier structure of Test cricket while also sounding a warning against the proposed restructuring of the Test cricket landscape.
The 'Big Three' – India, England and Australia – are said to be considering introducing a two-tier structure in order to ensure that the three teams play against each other more often.
A leading Australian media outlet recently reported that ICC Chairman and former BCCI Secretary Jay Shah will meet Cricket Australia president Mike Baird and England Cricket Board president Richard Thompson later this month to discuss the possibility of splitting Test cricket into two parts.
Read also: Sam Konstas leaked a private conversation with Virat Kohli after the shoulder incident
If the three parties involved agree to the move, the two-tier structure will be introduced after the current Futures Tour program ends in 2027. The new system will allow India, Australia and England to play each other. Another twice every three years. According to the current system, the three teams play against each other twice every four years.
The system will also relegate other cricket-playing nations to a secondary position. As a result, teams like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, West Indies and South Africa will be sidelined.
I've been saying this for years..it has to happen… https://t.co/ReH4nKsu13
– Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 6, 2025
Read also: A strong blow to Akash Deb! Besser's career is in jeopardy as BCCI drops a major bombshell
Arjuna Ranatunga fire warning:
While only time will tell how things will develop in the coming days, Arjuna Ranatunga is not impressed with the plan. The 1996 World Cup-winning captain said the move could do irreparable damage to the game, especially in smaller cricketing nations. While Arjuna Ranatunga criticized the move, he said the system would only prioritize profits over the integrity of the sport.
“I understand the economic factors. Such a move will certainly fill the pockets of the three boards, but sports is not just about sterling, dollars and rupees. Officials must nurture and protect the game, not just increase their coffers,” Ranatunga said. Telecom Asia Sport.
Speaking further, he highlighted Shamar Joseph's performance against Australia last year which helped West Indies to a famous win at the Gabba.
“It's very difficult to beat the Aussies at the Gabba, but this guy was sensational. I'm sure the Australian fans also appreciate this display of raw talent. Why would you want to deny players like him the opportunity to shut out other nations?” He said Sri Lanka is great.
“To play cricket, you don't have to be a former player, but you need to understand the spirit of the game – its values and its rich history. Unfortunately, when companies run the show, everything turns into numbers and the bottom line,” he added.
Arjuna Ranatunga's message to India:
Arjuna Ranatunga also sent a message to India and BCCI, saying that, as the powerhouse in the game, they have a moral obligation to look after small nations. He urged the Council to take a more comprehensive and visionary approach.
“India has always been at the forefront of shaping world cricket. Leaders like Jagmohan Dalmiya, Raj Singh Dungarpur, Sharad Pawar and Shashank Manohar had Indian interests at heart, but they also understood the broader picture. This is the kind of vision we need from India.” India Today This is not an introverted, self-serving approach.
“Cricket is more than just a business. It is a sport that unites nations, inspires young talent, and creates unforgettable memories. It is the duty of those in power to preserve its essence, not to exploit it for short-term gain,” Arjuna Ranatunga said. .