Test cricket—the oldest and most strategic format of the game—is at a crossroads. And according to former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, its future depends on one critical factor: investment. In a recent interview, Williamson called for “additional resources to support the growth” of Test cricket globally, emphasizing that without deliberate support, the format risks fading into the background amid the T20 boom.
Table of Contents
- Williamson on Test Cricket’s Unique Value
- The Calendar Conundrum
- Why Smaller Nations Are Struggling
- What Needs to Change?
- Sources
Test Cricket Deserves More Than Lip Service
“Test cricket offers something no other format can—depth, patience, narrative,” Williamson said. “But maintaining that requires more than just scheduling matches. It needs real investment in infrastructure, marketing, and player development.”
Williamson, widely respected for his classical batting and deep understanding of the game, stressed that while white-ball cricket dominates headlines and revenue streams, Test cricket remains the ultimate benchmark of a team’s resilience and skill.
The Calendar Conundrum
One of the biggest hurdles? The packed international calendar. “Managing priorities on the calendar is a big task,” Williamson admitted. With lucrative T20 leagues like the IPL, BBL, and SA20 pulling players in different directions, national boards often sideline Test series—especially against lower-ranked opponents.
“If we want Test cricket to thrive, every Test-playing nation needs to give it the attention it deserves—not just the ‘Big Three’ (India, England, Australia),” he added.
Why Smaller Nations Are Struggling
The imbalance is stark. While top-tier nations host high-profile, well-funded Test series, countries like Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Afghanistan struggle to secure regular fixtures—or even domestic structures that prepare players for the red-ball game.
| Nation | Test Matches Played (2023–2025) | Home Test Series Hosted | Red-Ball Domestic Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 28 | 5 | Strong (Ranji Trophy) |
| New Zealand | 18 | 3 | Moderate (Plunket Shield) |
| Ireland | 4 | 0 | Limited |
| Zimbabwe | 6 | 1 | Underfunded |
Without consistent exposure and financial backing, emerging Test nations can’t develop the depth needed to compete—leading to lopsided contests that further erode fan interest.
What Needs to Change?
Williamson didn’t just highlight problems—he offered solutions:
- Dedicated ICC funding for Test cricket development in associate and lower-tier nations
- Protected windows in the Future Tours Programme (FTP) exclusively for Test matches
- Enhanced broadcast and storytelling to make Test narratives more engaging for younger audiences
- Player incentives, such as higher match fees or performance bonuses for Test cricket
“It’s not about choosing between formats,” Williamson clarified. “It’s about ensuring Test cricket isn’t left behind while the game evolves.”
Cricket fans and administrators alike are watching closely. With the ICC’s next FTP cycle on the horizon, Williamson’s call could shape the future of the five-day game.