Cricket could be heading towards one of its biggest transformations in years, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) reportedly discussing several major changes that could reshape the sport’s global calendar after the current cycle ends in 2031.
According to a report by a leading publication, the proposals will be discussed by representatives of all 12 full-member nations during the ICC’s annual general meeting in Edinburgh on Wednesday. The discussions are part of a strategic review being carried out by American consulting firm McKinsey, which was appointed by the ICC to explore ways to strengthen the future of the game across all three formats.
Among the key proposals is a reduction in the length of One-Day Internationals (ODIs), a move that could make the format more appealing to fans. The ICC is also considering launching a global franchise-based T20 competition similar to the now-defunct Champions League T20. In addition, the governing body is exploring the possibility of introducing more continental tournaments, similar to the Asia Cup, while creating dedicated windows for Test cricket, ODIs and T20 Internationals to reduce scheduling conflicts.
Although cricket continues to enjoy massive popularity worldwide, expanding the game into newer markets remains a challenge. While several emerging nations have shown encouraging growth, maintaining long-term sustainability has proven difficult. At the same time, the rapid rise of T20 cricket has increased pressure on the traditional Test and ODI formats, with bilateral 50-over matches attracting less attention from fans.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently suggested that shorter formats are better suited for cricket’s global growth and Olympic ambitions. He also indicated that while T20 cricket is firmly established, the future of ODI cricket appears less certain. According to the report, the ICC could eventually limit ODI cricket mainly to an 18-month period leading up to each 50-over World Cup.
Another major proposal involves expanding the ICC World Test Championship from its current structure to 12 teams for the 2027-2029 cycle. Ireland, Zimbabwe and Afghanistan are reportedly in line to join the competition if the plan is approved.
The report added that any major reforms are expected to be introduced only after the current ICC calendar cycle concludes in 2031.
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