The Marylebone Cricket Club’s (MCC) World Cricket Committee (WCC) has suggested a significant reduction in the number of bilateral One Day International (ODI) matches following the 2027 World Cup. Led by former England captain Mike Gatting, the thirteen-member committee proposes the removal of bilateral ODIs, except for the year preceding each World Cup. The MCC questions the relevance of men’s bilateral ODI cricket in an already overcrowded cricket calendar, considering the increasing number of franchise T20 competitions throughout the year.
Addressing the Overcrowded Cricket Calendar
The MCC’s World Cricket Committee acknowledges the need for more space in the global cricketing calendar and believes that a scarcity of ODI cricket, achieved by eliminating bilateral ODIs, would enhance the quality of the format. The committee highlights the growing competition from franchise T20 leagues and aims to create a more balanced schedule by reducing the number of bilateral ODI matches.
Proposals for the Future of Test Cricket
In addition to advocating for the reduction of ODI cricket, the MCC group has also put forward proposals to protect Test cricket and promote the growth of women’s cricket. The committee expresses concern about the survival of Test cricket in nations outside of India, Australia, and England, emphasizing the impact of a narrowing competition pool. To address this, the MCC recommends that the International Cricket Council (ICC) conduct a Test match financial audit to identify nations in need of support for sustaining Test cricket. The committee suggests the establishment of a separate Test match fund to protect the sanctity of Test cricket and ensure its future viability.
Promoting Women’s Cricket and Investment by Nations
The MCC committee advocates for global steps to foster the growth of women’s cricket. It calls for each nation to commit to investing in women’s cricket and fielding a women’s team. The committee emphasizes the importance of supporting women’s cricket development and highlights the case of Afghanistan, where women’s cricket is currently forbidden. It proposes the establishment of an ICC Strategic Fund allocated on a need-to-know basis to nations that fully commit to their women’s pathway and national team.
The proposals put forth by the MCC aim to address the challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of cricket, with a focus on balancing the international cricket calendar, preserving Test cricket, and promoting women’s cricket worldwide.
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