In a groundbreaking move for test cricket, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will become the first host board in the modern era to pay a touring fee. This will happen when Zimbabwe arrives for a one-off test match in England next year. ECB chief Richard Gould, speaking to Sky Sports, emphasized the responsibility of financially strong boards, including England, India, and Australia, to ensure the health and competitiveness of test cricket.
The longest format of the game has faced challenges in recent years, losing popularity outside of its traditional strongholds. This is due in part to the rise of lucrative Twenty20 leagues and the increasing financial burdens on smaller nations. Gould acknowledged the outdated nature of current revenue sharing models in bilateral cricket. He explained that, traditionally, touring teams have been responsible for their own travel and accommodation, with no financial compensation from the host board. This will change for the Zimbabwe tour, as the ECB will pay a fee to the touring team.
The test match is scheduled for May and will be played at a venue to be announced. It will be the first time Zimbabwe has toured England for bilateral cricket since 2003. This historic move by the ECB represents a significant step towards supporting the financial sustainability of test cricket and ensuring the continued participation of smaller nations in the game.
