The World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-2027 is currently ongoing, as the teams have returned to play Test cricket, which remains the ultimate format of the game. Despite the game gaining more popularity for T20 cricket, Test cricket still remains the best format of the game. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is now planning to expand the teams in the competition.

Currently, South Africa is placed at the top of the table in the 9-team competition. After winning the home series against the Australia National Cricket Team by a margin of 2-1, they have been placed at the top of the table, as the reigning WTC champions will look to defend their WTC mace if they qualify for the final.

ICC to expand WTC teams in next cycle?

As per Cricinfo’s latest reports, the ICC will have an intense debate, in regards to expand the WTC to all 12 Full Members in the next cycle at the upcoming ICC board meeting in Bali. There has been criticism of the 9-team format of the WTC; despite the plan for expansion to 12 teams, it is unlikely to happen as of now.

The latest report suggests that there will be nine teams in the next cycle as well, which means Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Afghanistan would continue to be outside the competition until they make some gains to the top 9 ranks in the ICC rankings. This would be a massive upset if any of the bottom-ranked teams go out.

Zimbabwe to feature in WTC cycle?

Zimbabwe could still be included in a 10-team format, but Cricket Ireland’s financial problems have raised doubts about its ability to continue playing Test cricket regularly. However, among the big three, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has opposed expanding the WTC, as it would mean more travel and a shorter home season.

In addition, the ECB has agreed to play one-off Test matches against Zimbabwe and Ireland, which are not part of the ICC's WTC. But the English board has opposed playing against Afghanistan due to the Taliban government's oppression of women and girls. This is a huge blow for Afghan cricket, which has been developing in recent years.

WTC expansion remains on hold

If the WTC expansion remains on hold, Zimbabwe will be heartbroken, as they have a dream of being part of the WTC, which would help them play more Tests. They played 10 Tests in 2025, but only two this year. They have played well against some of the top teams in the world and now played against Afghanistan.

Apart from that, there will be discussion on the forthcoming FTP from 2027 to 2031 is likely to be presented, given the current cycle ends in March. As per the same reports, England are set to tour Zimbabwe in 2028, a tour which will include at least one Test match.

South Africa will travel to Zimbabwe in 2027 for a Test, while Australia are also set to visit in the next cycle. So the Chevrons will have some big teams coming to their home.

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