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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing to take key decisions that could reshape the structure of Test cricket and determine qualification pathways for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. According to reports, the ICC board is expected to revisit proposals related to expanding the World Test Championship (WTC) and finalising cricket's Olympic qualification framework during its upcoming in-person meeting.
The ICC's first quarterly board meeting for 2026, originally scheduled in Doha, was postponed due to geopolitical disruptions. While members held an online interaction, no major decisions were taken, with key proposals now expected to be addressed once the board reconvenes later this month.
ICC Test Cricket Looks to Expand
One of the major proposals under consideration
is the expansion of the World Test Championship to include 12 teams from the next cycle, scheduled to begin in July 2027. Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe are expected to be included in the expanded structure, adding to the existing Test-playing nations.
The proposal has reportedly received approval from the ICC's Chief Executives' Committee (CEC), signalling internal support for the format. However, there remains some uncertainty among influential cricket boards, with discussions ongoing around scheduling balance and workload management.
The expanded WTC format has been prioritised over the previously debated two-tier Test structure, which faced resistance from smaller Full-Member nations concerned about reduced opportunities at the top level.
Olympic Qualification Framework Also in Focus
Alongside the WTC expansion, the ICC is working on finalising the qualification roadmap for cricket's return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028. The qualification structure is expected to follow a regional pathway designed to ensure global representation.
Under the proposed system, the top-ranked team from each major region - Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Africa - would secure automatic qualification. The United States will also gain direct entry as the host nation.
The remaining qualification spot is expected to be decided through a global qualifying tournament scheduled for 2027, featuring the top eight teams that fail to secure direct regional qualification. The women's qualification structure is expected to follow the same format as the men's competition.
Why These Decisions Matter
If approved, the expansion of the World Test Championship would mark one of the most significant structural changes in modern Test cricket. Including Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe would increase competitive opportunities and strengthen the global Test ecosystem.
At the same time, finalising the Olympic qualification framework is a crucial step toward cricket's reintroduction to the Olympic stage. Clear qualification pathways will allow national boards to plan long-term strategies around squad development and tournament participation.
What Happens Next
The ICC aims to finalise these proposals ahead of its annual general meeting scheduled for July 2026 in Scotland. A rescheduled board meeting later this month, potentially in Bangkok, is expected to play a decisive role in determining whether the proposed changes are formally adopted.
