Legendary Cricketer Sir Clive Lloyd Opposes Two-Tier World Test Championship System

Condemns Proposed System as Detrimental to West Indies Cricket

Sir Clive Lloyd

Legendary former West Indies captain Sir Clive Lloyd believes that if the International Cricket Council (ICC) implements a proposed two-tier World Test Championship (WTC) system, it would be detrimental to the development of West Indies cricket.

ICC chairman Jay Shah and representatives from Australia, India, and England are reportedly set to discuss whether to split the 12 Full Members into two tiers based on rankings later this month.

According to reports, consideration is also being given to revamping the nine-team World Test Championship.

If the changes are implemented, the West Indies will celebrate their 100th anniversary as a Test team in 2028 in the B-tier.

However, Sir Clive, widely regarded as one of the greatest captains of all time, believes that a two-tier system would disadvantage the West Indies.

Sir Clive, who played 110 Tests and 87 ODIs for the West Indies, called for more Test series between the top-ranked and weaker teams.

“I think it will be terrible for all those countries who worked so hard to get the Test status,” the 80-year-old said.

“Now they’ll be playing among themselves in the lower section. How are they going to make it to the top? When you play against better teams.

“We wouldn’t be able to produce the type of cricket we have made over the years.

“You can only improve against better opposition. The better system would be to give all teams the same amount of money so they can improve,” Sir Clive added.

Sir Clive said that under the two-tier system, the West Indies and the other lower-ranked teams would also suffer financially.

“We were the cash cows for many countries over the years … people must recognize that,” he said. “But we are at that situation now where we need the help, and we can’t get it.

“We worked hard for what we achieved and only had five million people. India has got a billion and a quarter. Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, and South Africa all have more people, but look at what we achieved,” Sir Clive pointed out.

“We have a great history, and now you’re going to tell us, because of a monetary situation, this is how it will be.”

Conclusion

Sir Clive’s concerns highlight the potential negative impact of a two-tier system on the development of West Indies cricket. The legendary captain’s views are a stark reminder of the need for a more equitable and balanced approach to international cricket.

FAQs

* What is the proposed two-tier World Test Championship system?
The proposed system would divide the 12 Full Members into two tiers based on rankings, with the top teams competing in a higher tier and the lower-ranked teams competing in a lower tier.
* How would this system affect the West Indies?
The West Indies would be relegated to the lower tier and would likely face a significant decline in their international status and revenue.
* What are Sir Clive’s concerns about the proposed system?
Sir Clive believes that the two-tier system would disadvantage the West Indies and limit their opportunities for growth and improvement. He also expressed concerns about the financial implications of the system, which he believes would lead to a decline in the West Indies’ revenue and ability to compete with other teams.