Former West Indies fast bowler Kenneth Benjamin has endorsed the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) proposed two-tier system for Test cricket, describing it as “long coming” and essential for the sport’s growth.
Sharing his perspective on ongoing discussions between the ICC and cricket stakeholders, Benjamin emphasized that the system would benefit several teams, particularly associate nations. “I think it is better for a lot of the teams if they have a two-tier [system]. And, honestly, I know West Indies may feel it a bit, if they’re pushed down in that, but I believe it is something that is overdue,” he stated.
The proposed structure could divide teams into two tiers: the top seven teams in the premier tier and five in the second tier, with a promotion-relegation system operating on a two-year cycle in alignment with the World Test Championship finals.
Benjamin is a strong advocate of the promotion-relegation feature, suggesting that it would create clear goals and development opportunities. He acknowledged the possibility of the West Indies being relegated to the second tier but views such challenges as part of cricket’s evolution and global development.
Looking ahead, Benjamin speculated on the potential future of Caribbean cricket, suggesting that individual territories like Antigua and Barbados might eventually compete independently, similar to football’s national team structures. “It may not be in our lifetime, but it’s going to happen,” he predicted.
He clarified that the proposed changes would apply only to Test cricket, leaving the limited-overs formats unaffected. He also highlighted that many teams relegated to the second tier in Tests could remain competitive in shorter formats.
Benjamin emphasized that the promotion-relegation system would inspire teams in the lower tier to strive for improvement and opportunities to compete against the best. “It also gives the team in the bottom tier something to really work at… to go up and play against the best teams and the best players in the world,” he explained.
The proposal represents a significant potential change to Test cricket’s organization, with Benjamin’s support adding weight to the ongoing debate.
However, not all cricketing figures agree. Former West Indies captain Sir Clive Lloyd opposed the two-tier system, expressing concerns that it could mark the decline of one of cricket’s most iconic teams, the West Indies.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
