Battlegrounds

Hi all, returned to the game after a long break. Dropped down a few BG's ranks to Gold. Realised i can only play victory track matches now since I am yet to unlock gladiator's circuit (which was a change i was shocked at initially). Played 5 VT matches expecting my collective rewards to come through but they have not??? Do only gladiator's circuit matches count now? And why can't I collect my rewards?