Melbourne

Australia is spearheading a new initiative to support Test cricket by proposing a multimillion-dollar fund, potentially over $15 million, to keep top players engaged in the longest format of the game. This initiative, which the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to adopt, aims to address the challenge posed by lucrative T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL) that attract many star players with their financial incentives.

The proposed fund will ensure that players receive a guaranteed minimum payment for Test matches and help cover the expenses of overseas tours for less financially stable teams. For instance, the West Indies spent $1 million on their men’s and women’s teams’ tour to Australia last summer.

Cricket Australia Chairman Mike Baird, who proposed the fund earlier this year, expressed enthusiasm about its upcoming implementation. He emphasized the need to remove barriers and maintain Test cricket’s esteemed status alongside the growing popularity of white-ball formats.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah also supports the idea, advocating for a dedicated fund to support Test cricket. He noted the high costs of hosting five-day Tests and expressed readiness to back the fund if the ICC board approves.

The fund is likely to focus on supporting teams that are not part of the top three cricketing powers: India, Australia, and England. This move comes in response to criticisms about Test cricket’s decreasing prominence, highlighted by former Australian captain Steve Waugh’s remarks on the lack of support for the format.

If approved, this fund aims to enhance the sustainability and competitive spirit of Test cricket worldwide.