English cricket chiefs today hit out at the sport's world governing body for failing to pursue plans for a World Test Championship in 2013.
The tournament was due to be held in England, with a final at Lord's, and members of the Test team, who are currently top of the rankings, were desperate for the chance to compete.
Yet the Championship will not now be held until 2017 at the earliest because the International Cricket Council have commitments to broadcasters and sponsors that last at least until 2015. As a result, the 50-over Champions Trophy will take place instead.
A spokesman for the England and Wales Cricket Board said: "We strongly favour the World Test Championship and are disappointed this could not be achieved for 2013."
ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat had said: "We tried to switch the Champions Trophy but that is not going to be possible."
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