Bonus points for innings wins, away victories, and margins over 100 runs could redefine Test cricket dynamics; ICC Board to deliberate in April meeting.
New Delhi, March 21, 2025 – The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly considering a significant revamp of the World Test Championship (WTC) points system for the upcoming 2025-27 cycle, with an emphasis on rewarding dominant wins and away victories.
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According to a report in The Telegraph, the proposed changes will be discussed at the ICC Board meeting scheduled for April. The revamped system could include bonus points for wins by an innings or by margins exceeding 100 runs, aiming to motivate teams to push for results rather than settle for draws.
Currently, 12 points are awarded for any win regardless of margin, 6 for a tie, and 4 for a draw. However, this equal weightage has drawn criticism from teams who feel big wins, particularly against top-tier teams like India, Australia, or England, deserve more recognition in the standings.
“This idea has been around since the beginning of the WTC. Many teams believe there should be added incentive for major wins,” a source close to the ICC told PTI.
The ICC is also contemplating extra points for victories away from home, which would further reward teams that succeed in unfamiliar and challenging conditions.
“It’s a good move. If it’s implemented, teams will be more driven to go for outright wins. This could make Test matches more thrilling,” a former India player said anonymously.
In recent years, underdog teams like New Zealand defeating India at home didn’t receive any extra points for such upsets. That could change if the revised rules are adopted, providing smaller nations with greater opportunities to climb the WTC ladder.
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Two-Tier Test Format Also On Agenda
In addition to the points overhaul, the ICC is also expected to revisit discussions around a two-tier Test structure, a concept long championed by Cricket Australia. However, the idea remains controversial as it could limit lesser-ranked teams’ opportunities to face top nations regularly.
“Such a move needs deep consideration. Already, we don’t see frequent series like India vs New Zealand or Australia vs West Indies. Further segregation could reduce the inclusiveness of Test cricket,” the player added.
The 2025-27 WTC cycle will kick off with India’s five-match Test series in England starting June 2025, setting the stage for what could be a much more competitive and reward-oriented format.
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