Ravi Shastri calls for two-tier Test system involving promotion, relegation

Former India cricketer Ravi Shastri recently came forward to talk about some changes in the system of Test cricket. The 62-year-old asked for a two-tier system of Test cricket, which could involve relegation and promotion for teams. Shastri talked about the same at the inaugural World Cricket Connects event, held at Lord's Cricket Ground on Friday, July 05. 

Another point put forth by the former cricketer was about T20 cricket; however, the point was not explained in the statement released by the MCC. He expressed the shortest format’s financial importance in world cricket and the ICC’s responsibility in managing future tour programmes.

"(Shastri) proposed a competitive Test structure with promotion and relegation to maintain interest; Shastri also stressed T20 cricket's financial importance and the ICC's role in managing the Future Tours Programme,” the MCC stated, according to Cricbuzz.

The former cricketer had recently opined that there should be no bilateral cricket in the shortest format, and only the World Cups should be held with the T20 format in mind. He had also highlighted the balance of power and financial strength in the modern game. Referring to the power shift to India after being previously held by the likes of England and Australia. 

Several big names in world cricket gathered at the event to discuss many matters. Former South Africa cricketer Graeme Smith spoke about the evolution of Test cricket. He also asked the boards to stay wary of simple solutions like specific windows for the longest format, a suggestion recently given by Australia skipper Pat Cummins. 

"The debate generated a range of ideas for those attending to help shape the positive evolution of the game,” the MCC said as many figures from world cricket gave their opinion.

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Furthermore, former England skipper Andrew Strauss noted the importance of the Olympics to introduce cricket to new audiences, where the CEO of Kolkata Knight Riders, Venky Mysore talked about pushing the boundaries of growth and highlighting the need to globalise cricket brands.