Bangladesh batter Mominul Haque has voiced his frustrations over the prospect of a two-tier Test cricket structure. The proposal, reportedly under discussion by cricket’s “Big Three” nations—India, Australia, and England—has sparked widespread debate. Mominul, a Test specialist, believes such a move could significantly devalue the game’s longer format, particularly for teams like Bangladesh.
Proposal for a Two-Tier Structure in Test Cricket
According to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald, India, Australia, and England are exploring a division of Test cricket into two tiers. This structure would allow the “Big Three” to play against each other more frequently—twice every three years instead of the current format, where they face off twice every four years.
If approved, the two-tier format would likely be implemented following the conclusion of the current Future Tours Program in 2027. While this proposal aims to maximize marquee clashes between top teams, it raises concerns about equity and the future of Test cricket for other nations.
Impact on Smaller Cricketing Nations
For countries like Bangladesh, the two-tier system could significantly reduce the number of Test matches played against top-tier teams. This prospect is especially troubling for players like Mominul Haque, who thrive in the game’s longer format.
Speaking to billy 777 login on Tuesday, Mominul said, “It’s frustrating for me. To be honest, I am not making any team small, but I am not sure what process will be followed in the lower tier. I am not sure whether we can progress to the first tier if we play well in the second tier.”
Concerns About Player Development and Competitive Exposure
Mominul expressed concern that reduced exposure to higher-ranked teams would hinder the development of cricketers from second-tier nations.
“If we don’t play against good teams, our game will not improve. You will remain at the same level if you are playing among yourselves and not against bigger and tougher opposition,” he explained.
He emphasized that competing against stronger teams provides invaluable learning opportunities. “When you play against a good team, you will try to see how to better yourself just to compete against them,” he added.
Fear of Declining Interest in Test Cricket
Mominul also warned that the value of Test cricket could diminish under the proposed structure. With fewer matches and limited opportunities to face top-tier teams, players may prioritize shorter formats like One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 cricket.
“The value of Test cricket will go down if this happens, as there will be lesser Tests. As the value gets lesser, players will go for white-ball cricket,” Mominul cautioned.
Speculated Divisions
South Africa, Australia, England, and India will form Division 1 if the proposal is implemented. Bangladesh, alongside other lower-ranked teams, would likely compete in Division 2.
This arrangement raises questions about how promotions and relegations will be managed and whether second-tier teams will have adequate opportunities to prove themselves globally.
Broader Implications for Cricket
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has yet to comment on whether the two-tier proposal is under serious consideration. However, the discussions have sparked significant concerns among cricketing nations and players.
While the “Big Three” might benefit from increased revenue and marquee matchups, the move risks alienating smaller cricketing nations and undermining the sport’s global development.
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Final Thoughts
Mominul Haque’s concerns highlight the broader implications of the proposed two-tier Test cricket structure. For nations like Bangladesh, the plan threatens to reduce opportunities and diminish the value of the longest and most prestigious format of the game.
The cricketing community now awaits further clarity from the ICC on this controversial proposal, which could reshape the future of Test cricket.
