“The current model is broken and unsustainable,” a WCA statement said Monday.
According to AFP, the World Cricketers’ Association has initiated an unprecedented examination of the sport’s “broken and unsustainable” schedule.
The players’ organization, formerly known as FICA, intends to propose a solution that would allow international cricket and local competitions to “co-exist in a clear, coherent calendar” for everyone.
Tom Harrison, former chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board, and Sana Mir, former Pakistan women’s captain, are among the six members of a six-person panel that will collaborate with independent experts on the study.
They will make suggestions to the WCA board following consultations with players, administrators, team owners, and broadcasters.
“The current model is broken and unsustainable,” said a WCA statement on Monday.
“Confusing and chaotic global scheduling with no clarity on the interplay between international cricket and the domestic leagues means players are increasingly forced to choose between representing their country and optimising their careers.”
“Change is badly needed to create ongoing clarity, and value, for players, boards and fans alike.”
Heath Mills, WCA chair, stated, “We are fortunate that cricket offers three fundamental formats in both the international game and provincial leagues.
“To yet, the game’s leadership has failed to work together to create a clear and cohesive global framework in which they can coexist. We have almost given up hope of this happening.”
According to research conducted by the Professional Cricketers’ Association in May, 81% of players were concerned about the physical toll of the domestic fixture calendar, which left little time for adequate rest and rehabilitation.
The ECB’s 2022 high-performance review advocated reducing the number of domestic cricket matches, however English county teams rejected the ideas.
Former England captain Joe Root recently stated, “It is obvious the schedule needs to change to see long-term benefits for English cricket.”
