County championship fixtures to be cut by two in 2017

Yorkshire captain Andrew Gale will be looking to lead his side to a third consecutive county championship title in 2016 (Picture: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com).

These changes, agreed following meetings at Lord’s on Monday, are designed to bring an “improved shape” to the domestic season.

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced that, from 2017, there will be a top division of eight teams and a second of 10.

In order to achieve that new balance, counties in Division Two will be playing for just one promotion place this season – with two relegated, as in previous years.

The championship will be run in segments of fixtures, pausing first during April and May for Royal London Cup matches, leading to a July final.

Four-day cricket will again take a break during July and August when the NatWest T20 Blast, retained in its established format, will take place.

ECB chairman Colin Graves welcomed the alterations to the summer calendar.

“The changes for 2017 will be good for fans, players and our international teams,” he said.

“The season is easier to follow; the blocks help players focus on specific skills, and there’s a better balance across all three formats.”