The International Cricket Council (ICC) is planning to create a multi-million dollar fund to safeguard the future of Test cricket.
This initiative is a response to the growing financial appeal of T20 franchise leagues, which has been drawing players away from Test cricket.
Reports suggest that the ICC is considering allocating at least $15 million to support Test cricket. The fund aims to boost match fees for Test players and address the migration of talent to high-paying T20 leagues.
The proposal, put forward by Cricket Australia, has received strong support from BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, a leading candidate for the next ICC Chair, as well as from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
The proposed fund aims to increase the minimum match fee for Test players and cover expenses for overseas tours, especially supporting cricket boards like the West Indies that struggle with the financial competition from global T20 tournaments.
The fund is expected to ensure that Test players receive up to $10,000 per match, making it financially feasible for struggling nations to remain competitive in Test cricket.
Mike Bird, Chairman of Cricket Australia, has supported the proposal, highlighting the need to overcome obstacles and improve Test cricket’s quality.
However, the three wealthiest cricket boards—India, Australia, and England—are unlikely to benefit from this fund, as they already offer substantial compensation to their players.
The success of the initiative will also depend on resolving financial issues with the ICC’s broadcasting partners.
