Australian legend Ian Chappell has criticized the International Cricket Council (ICC), calling it an “events company” that fails to manage cricket effectively. Ian Chappell called on the ICC to focus on proper administration of the game and advocated for the implementation of a two-tier system in Tests.
According to reports, a two-division system in Test cricket could be introduced after the current Future Tours program ends in 2027. This structure would allow the “big three” teams – Australia, England and India – to compete against each other twice every three years, instead to play twice every four years.
ICC is widely regarded as the event management company – Ian Chappell
In his column for ESPNCricinfo, Ian Chappell called for stricter criteria for granting Test status. He said the ICC should ensure that the nation “has a viable first-class competition, a legitimate foundation to host five-day games with adequate facilities and is financially stable,” using Afghanistan as an example.
Chappell questioned their ability to host Test matches due to ongoing political instability and inadequate infrastructure. He also pointed out that Ireland lacks sufficient places to test the standards. Chappell branded the ICC an “event management company”, adding that it was not even competent.
“For example, could Afghanistan hold a series of tests in its conflict-torn country? Does Ireland have a realistic number of grounds for testing standards? Even leaving aside the Taliban’s treatment of women against women, the answer to those questions is: absolutely not. So why do they have test status?” wrote Chappell.
“Because in return for Test status, they give the ICC valuable votes on important issues. The ICC is widely regarded as an event management company. They should add ‘and not a very good one at that,'” he added.
The big three are looking for a big chunk of the money – Ian Chappell
Chappell backed Michael Holding’s opposition to the proposed two-tier Test cricket system, but raised concerns about its potential to widen the financial gap between member nations. He noted that the “big three” – India, Australia and England – need to play more Tests against each other.
“The ICC does not run cricket and unless there is a major change of heart, the financially favored nations will continue to have a big say in creating a schedule that serves themselves. There is also the major issue of financial sharing,” wrote Chappell.
“The Big Three – India, Australia and England – despite being cricket’s richest nations, claim a large share of the money shared among cricketing bodies, yet they are agitating for an even bigger share. India’s strong presence at the ICC is directly proportional to their contribution from about 70% of cricket’s revenue is a complex issue for which cricket has not found an effective solution,” he added.
There has been a big rise in test match scores – Ian Chappell
The 81-year-old pointed out that teams now prefer batsmen who score quickly to meet the demand for entertaining cricket. Chappell noted the increase in Test match scores and the improvement of pitches, adding that Test cricket has done well to remain relevant in the modern age.
“There has been a huge increase in Test match scores and more acceptable pitches, highlighting the importance of bowlers in creating a good spectacle. There is also a greater emphasis on playing entertaining cricket. Despite facing various challenges, Test cricket is doing a creditable job of keeping the format relevant,” he concluded. .
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