The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly preparing to sanction four-day Test matches for smaller nations during the 2027-29 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. This move aims to encourage greater participation and provide more opportunities for these nations to play Test cricket. However, according to reports, India, Australia, and England will be exempt from this rule and will continue to have the option of playing traditional five-day matches.

The decision to consider four-day Tests for some nations comes amid concerns about scheduling and costs, which often deter smaller nations from hosting Test matches. By reducing the length of matches, the ICC hopes to make Test cricket more accessible and sustainable for these countries. A four-day format would allow them to complete a three-Test series in under three weeks, potentially easing scheduling pressures and financial burdens.

Reportedly, the ICC chair, Jay Shah, has expressed his support for the four-day Test concept. This endorsement suggests that the proposal has significant backing within the ICC and is likely to be implemented in the next WTC cycle. The move was reportedly discussed during the WTC final at Lord's recently.

Exempting India, Australia, and England from the four-day Test rule acknowledges their significant contribution to Test cricket and the enduring appeal of their marquee series. These three nations will still be permitted to schedule five-Test series of five-day matches for prestigious events such as the Ashes, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the newly named Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. This ensures that the tradition and grandeur of these contests are preserved. The first iteration of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is scheduled to begin with the first Test between England and India at Headingley.

To compensate for the shorter duration of four-day Tests, the ICC is likely to mandate a minimum of 98 overs per day, compared to the standard 90 overs in five-day matches. This adjustment aims to maintain a similar level of play and ensure that matches are not unduly affected by the reduced time frame.

The ICC first sanctioned four-day Tests for bilateral contests back in 2017. England has already participated in such matches, including a recent game against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge. They have also played four-day Tests against Ireland in 2019 and 2023.

The current World Test Championship cycle (2025-2027) will proceed with the existing five-day format. The proposed changes are expected to take effect in the subsequent 2027-29 cycle, potentially giving a shake-up and providing an opportunity for smaller nations to participate more in Test cricket.