Players' union demands overhaul of ‘chaotic’ international cricket calendar

The World Cricketers' Association (WCA) has issued a strong call for reform, urging officials to establish clear windows in the international cricket schedule and ensure a fairer distribution of the sport's financial resources.

In a report published on Wednesday, the global players' union warned that the current "chaotic, inconsistent, and confusing" calendar is putting international cricket at serious risk.

The findings come after a six-month review involving input from current and former players, administrators, and commercial partners. The WCA highlighted the unchecked expansion of Twenty20 franchise leagues as a growing threat to the international game, calling for a complete overhaul of the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Future Tours Programme.

Under the current system, bilateral series commitments vary significantly between the wealthiest and less affluent cricketing nations, leading to disparities in opportunities and financial security. To address this, the WCA has proposed four fixed international windows each year, along with a divisional structure for Test matches, one-day internationals, and T20s. The proposed model would introduce promotion and relegation based on performance, linking directly to World Cup qualification.

The suggested changes are set to take effect in men's cricket from 2028 and women's cricket from 2029, once the existing agreements expire.

While many WCA members benefit financially from franchise leagues, the union believes that international cricket should "co-exist with the growing T20 leagues rather than compete with them, thereby ensuring its future survival."

The report also calls for a new revenue model to counterbalance the financial dominance of India, England, and Australia. Additionally, it advocates for modernising the ICC's governance structure, proposing a system based on "shared ownership, independence, and representation reflective of the whole sport."

Paul Marsh, chair of the WCA sub-committee that compiled the report, acknowledged the challenges ahead but stressed the urgency of reform.

"Cricket is at a turning point. Many of the issues in this report are difficult, but they must be addressed if we are to create a sustainable future for the game beyond a handful of countries," he said.

Marsh, son of the late Australian cricket legend Rodney Marsh, added, "Establishing a clearer global calendar, improving consistency across formats, and ensuring greater competition integrity will benefit the entire cricketing ecosystem."