The World Cricketers Association (WCA) has initiated an independent examination of the current structure of global cricket, aiming to resolve what it describes as the "confusing and chaotic" nature of the sport's international schedule.
Formerly recognised as the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations, the WCA announced on Monday that the review would concentrate on three primary areas: global scheduling, the financial dynamics of cricket, and matters concerning player contracts and employment regulations. The review will be overseen by a distinguished panel, including former Pakistan women's captain Sana Mir and ex-CEO of the England and Wales Cricket Board, Tom Harrison. The process will also involve consultations with players, both current and retired administrators, as well as franchise owners.
The association expressed concern over the current state of the sport, stating that the existing model is "broken and unsustainable." The WCA pointed out that the lack of clarity and organisation in the global cricket schedule forces players to choose between national representation and advancing their careers. According to WCA chair Heath Mills, the leadership in cricket has not successfully established a clear and coherent global structure where all three formats of the game—Test, One-Day, and T20—can thrive together.
Mills also mentioned that the association has nearly lost faith in the current leadership's ability to create such a structure. He stated that players should have a voice in shaping the future of the sport and that the WCA is committed to proposing solutions to these ongoing challenges. The review's recommendations will focus on optimising the global structure of the game, ensuring sustainable value, and providing greater clarity for all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the International Cricket Council, which governs the sport globally, has yet to comment on this initiative.
The proliferation of financially rewarding domestic T20 leagues has further complicated cricket's already packed schedule. The emergence of new competitions has squeezed the calendar, leaving less room for traditional formats like Test and One-Day cricket. Consequently, some international players have opted to retire from certain formats, unable to manage the intense demands of the schedule. A recent study by the Professional Cricketers Association, published in May, revealed that the majority of professionals in England and Wales are increasingly worried about the pressures of the county cricket schedule.