New Zealand Cricket CEO David White believes a two-tier test format "would improve performance in the game's longest version." New Zealand Cricket is "backing a move to a two-tier test system" and also believes reducing tests to four days is "worth exploring." The Int'l Cricket Council is "contemplating increasing the number of test nations" to 12 and operating in two groups -- a top division of seven and a bottom division of five -- "as a way of revitalising the longer format of the game" (STUFF, 7/19).
CONCUSSION TESTS: Horse Racing is to "tighten its concussion protocols to include a mandatory test on a jockey’s balance both on and off the course as the sport moves to combat the repercussions of serious falls." Starting Aug. 1, when applying for their annual professional license, "jockeys will have to undergo a three-part balance test which will provide a baseline that medical staff can compare against when assessing a jockey’s state." Doctors will also "require more background data on historical issues such as depression and migraines, which can affect the course of any concussion" (LONDON TIMES, 7/19).
SUSPICIOUS TENNIS BETS: Tennis "accounted for the majority of suspicious betting activity flagged up" by the European Sports Security Association with 34 incidents in the second quarter of '16. The sport made up 83% "of total suspicious activity reported by ESSA." Football had "four alerts with the one each in beach volleyball, handball and snooker" (REUTERS, 7/19).
