Only Bangladesh opposed two-tier Test structure - BCB head

BCB president Nazmul Hassan has said that Bangladesh was the only country to oppose the proposed two-tier Test structure when it was discussed in the chief executive's committee (CEC) meeting last week during the ICC's annual conference in Edinburgh. He said a decision on the matter was likely to come down to a vote by the Full Members, adding that it wouldn't be "easy" to have it passed in the ICC.

"Bangladesh was the only country to oppose this idea in the [CEC] meeting, where we explained our position," Hassan said. "But at the end of the day, it doesn't matter who has opposed it and who hasn't. The decision will be taken through a vote, so if one or two do not vote, it doesn't really matter. But I don't think it will be easy get this passed at the ICC. The issue isn't so [simple]. It is a tough process."

BCB vice-president Mahbubul Anam, and directors Ahmed Sajjadul Alam and Tanjil Chowdhury, had said last month that they were against such a system being implemented in Test cricket. Should it be implemented, Bangladesh, who are ranked ninth, are likely to slip into Division Two of Test cricket.

According to the ICC's press release at the end of the annual conference, members were updated on the progress being made on the two-tier idea during the CEC meeting. It was proposed that a workshop be scheduled in early September in Dubai, to facilitate discussion between members on this project and to work through some of the details.

ICC chief executive David Richardson said that the new structure would make the game more competitive. "This is an unprecedented opportunity for our sport to introduce ... structures which are merit and performance based, have context, enhance the value of bilateral cricket, and create a highly competitive environment for cricketers.

"This is a complex issue on many levels, but I am heartened by the progress that has been made to date and during these meetings."