ROD Bransgrove is keen to reduce the number of “meaningless” Test matches that clog up the international cricketing calendar.

His radical plan would be to create two divisions of six teams for Test matches.

All countries would play ten Tests per year and 14 one-day internationals – increasing the amount of rest time for players.

Writing in the February issue of Wisden Cricketer magazine, the Hampshire chairman says: “I would reduce the number of Tests and remove all the meaningless games between aspiring countries and major Test nations.

“They are degrading the game; nobody is interested in them, nobody goes to them and nobody benefits.

“Test cricket is under threat because of falling attendances, other than in the UK (or where England are playing abroad). These one-sided fixtures are an embarrassment to the game and must be stopped.”

He added: “I would introduce two divisions of six teams for Test cricket.

“Emerging nations would have to win the opportunity to play a team from the top division.

“Promotion and relegation between the divisions would not be exclusively tabular but would include a play-off between the top team in the second division and bottom side in the first division on an annual basis.

“Each Test would become a major sporting occasion, with a big build-up, and would benefit from greater value through its rarity.

“Each country’s cricket year would comprise ten Tests in two series (one home, one away), 14 ODIs (more in a World Cup year) leaving plenty of time for international cricketers to rest, prepare and play for their club or franchise teams.

“This would result in all teams playing each other in five-match Test series, both home and away, over a five-year cycle. At other times all players will be free to play in their club-based Twenty20 competitions.”

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