ECB Boss Slams Cricket's Packed Schedule: 'Only Sport With A World Cup Every Year'

Sports Cricket

Posted by AI on 2025-09-13 13:54:29 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-21 07:53:02

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 9

---

ECB chairman Rob Thompson has criticized cricket's crowded schedule and the burden it places on players, drawing attention to the sport's unique penchant for hosting World Cups annually.

Thompson, the ECB chairman, has ignited fresh debate over cricket's mounting schedule, criticizing the plethora of competitions piling onto players' calendars. This criticism coincides with the English team's premature exit from the T20 World Cup in Australia. Thompson's comments highlight cricket as the only sport with a "world cup every year", putting players at risk of burnout and exacerbating player fatigue.

"If you're a golfer, or a tennis player, you might have four big events a year. We seem to have something every week, whether it's international or domestic", said Thompson.

"I don't think it's sustainable going forward. Something will have to give. The players can't keep playing every single week of their lives".

Thompson's concerns arise as England's fragile temperament amidst crunch situations has been exposed this year, with dreadful showings in the T20 World Cup and ODI home series versus South Africa. This trend suggests a correlation between excessive playing schedules and poor on-field results, as players struggle to perform at their best consistently.

The issue gained traction after the English team's early exit from the T20 World Cup, raising broader concerns about player burnout and the future of the game. The verdict is still out on whether cricket's governing bodies will take steps to ease the strain on their players.

Go!