West Indies Brace for Two-Tier Test Championship Amid Fears of Long-Term Exclusion
As discussions intensify around the potential implementation of a two-tier World Test Championship (WTC), West Indies cricket finds itself on shaky ground, fearing exclusion from the top flight of Test cricket. Cricket West Indies (CWI) has acknowledged the threat and is actively working to secure the region's position, despite a string of poor results and systemic challenges.
The ICC, led by a working group chaired by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, is currently reviewing the WTC format for the 2025–2027 cycle, with a two-tier model among the options under serious consideration. Given West Indies’ performance—eighth out of nine teams in each of the first three WTC cycles and three consecutive Test defeats to Australia in the current one—the regional side faces the very real prospect of being relegated to a lower division.
CWI CEO Chris Dehring confirmed during a press conference in Trinidad that the board is closely monitoring developments at the ICC.
“We have a seat at the table,” Dehring said. “We must stay close to any changes that might be coming, hedge our bets, and ensure that West Indies cricket is included, no matter which way the wind blows.”
Clive Lloyd: “We’re Two Years from a Hundred-Year Legacy”
Cricket legend Clive Lloyd issued a stark warning, expressing concern that West Indies could be stuck in the lower division for generations.
“We are just two years out of being in that [top] group for 100 years,” Lloyd said. “To now fall into a second tier would be a huge blow. When we were in our prime, everyone wanted to play us. We brought the crowds and the money. Now we need recognition for that.”
Lloyd also called for a fairer distribution of ICC revenue, pointing out the disparity between West Indies and the Big Three—India, England, and Australia.
“India, Australia, and England receive $180 million, and West Indies get $80 million—just like Bangladesh and Afghanistan. That’s not right. We were the sport’s cash cow in the '70s, '80s, and '90s. It’s time we get a better share of the pie.”
Sammy Under Scrutiny After Test Woes
West Indies' Test decline has only accelerated under new head coach Daren Sammy, who took charge in April 2025 across all formats. Since then, the team has lost all three Tests played against Australia at home, capped by a humiliating 27 all out in the final Test in Kingston—the second-lowest score in Test history.
CWI director of cricket Miles Bascombe defended Sammy, highlighting the limitations he's working under.
“He is only one series into his tenure. While the 27 is obviously a lowlight, we did see positives—especially in our bowling unit,” Bascombe said. “Brandon King, for instance, showed he could compete in the longest format, even though he’s seen as a white-ball specialist.”
Bascombe admitted that Sammy needs more support and hinted at broader investments in infrastructure and coaching.
“We still need more support staff and camps. There was no cost-cutting motive behind giving Sammy the all-format role. He presented a clear plan for white-ball formats, and we wanted to bring that clarity to Test cricket too.”
Fast Bowlers a Rare Bright Spot
While the batting continues to flounder, West Indies’ pace attack—led by Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, and Shamar Joseph—has shown promise. The trio claimed all ten Australian wickets in the third Test, underlining the potential in the bowling department, even amid the chaos.
What’s Next for West Indies Cricket?
The CWI recently concluded a high-level emergency meeting with legends like Brian Lara, Viv Richards, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, and others, aiming to create a strategic roadmap for revival. However, with a two-tier WTC looming, there's urgency to accelerate progress and avoid long-term relegation.
“This isn’t just about one innings or one series,” Lara said earlier. “It’s about addressing deep-rooted issues and regaining pride in West Indies cricket.”
The ICC working group is expected to present recommendations later this year, which could shape the Test landscape for years to come. For West Indies, the message is clear: act now or risk being left behind.