DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC), after its in-depth discussions in the recent meeting, has decided against the move of dividing Test cricket into two tiers.
The main reason for the rejection of the proposal as per the news of the leading cricket portals was that it would have encountered problems related to money and finance since the new format could have eventually created different types of opportunities for the member countries.
Now, the ICC is thinking about the WTC with an enlarged format and it would be possible for all twelve Full Member nations to participate in the new cycle, which will be starting in 2027.
Moreover, the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup will be opened for 14 teams while the T20 World Cup will go on with 20 teams. Furthermore, the ODI Super League is only a step away from its return as the ICC transitions to strengthening bilateral and global competitions.
The move is indicative of the ICC’s effort to preserve the solidarity and the honor of Test cricket as well as to provide fair opportunities to all member nations.
Pakistan defeats Sri Lanka in opening ODI of the series
Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by six runs in a thrilling opening match of the One-Day series held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
In this encounter, Pakistan scored 299 runs for the loss of 5 wickets, with Salman Ali Agha’s outstanding century being the highlight. Agha’s innings of 105 runs came off 87 balls and included 9 fours. Hussain Talat also made a significant contribution, scoring 62 runs from 63 balls.
In response, Sri Lanka managed to score 293 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs while chasing Pakistan’s target of 300 runs. Vinod Hasaranga was a standout bowler for Sri Lanka, taking three wickets.
The Sri Lankan captain chose to bowl first after winning the toss, citing humid conditions in the second innings as a factor in the decision. This match marks Shaheen Shah Afridi’s second ODI series as captain, and under his leadership, Pakistan recently claimed a 2-1 series victory against South Africa.
ALSO READ: Afghan cricketer Rashid Khan confirms his second marriage
Historically, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have faced each other in 157 ODIs, with Pakistan winning 93 matches, Sri Lanka winning 59, one match resulting in a tie, and four matches ending with no result. In their previous meetings at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, both teams have won one ODI each.
