ICC reportedly considers reducing 2027 ODI World Cup to 12 teams; Associate nations oppose proposed move

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly considering reducing the number of teams in the 2027 ODI World Cup from 14 to 12, a move that has sparked concerns among Associate nations. 

The development comes at a time when the future of the 50-over format continues to be debated. While the ICC has reportedly dismissed suggestions of shortening One-Day Internationals to 40 overs, discussions surrounding the number of participating teams in the next World Cup have gained momentum.

As reported by Tristan Lavalette, the ICC is deliberating on reverting to a 12-team World Cup despite previously announcing in 2021 that future editions of the tournament would feature 14 teams.

The 2027 World Cup will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. As hosts, South Africa and Zimbabwe are expected to qualify automatically. However, Namibia's place in the tournament would not be guaranteed if the number of participating teams is reduced, forcing them to go through the qualification process.

The proposed change has also raised concerns for several Associate nations, including Nepal, the United States, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada, whose chances of securing a World Cup berth could become significantly tougher.

The possibility of shrinking the tournament has not gone down well within the Associate cricket community, with one senior administrator strongly criticizing the proposal.

“It would be disgusting if that happens. Another step back for cricket after it seemed like progress was being made,” a senior administrator in Associate cricket told Cricket Financial Journal.

The comments reflect growing frustration among emerging cricket nations, particularly after the ICC had earlier committed to expanding the tournament to provide greater opportunities for developing teams on the global stage.

As per reports, the proposal was discussed during the ICC's meetings in Edinburgh. However, the governing body has not publicly revealed the reasons behind the discussions, and the scope of the proposal remains unclear.

Under the current qualification pathway, the top eight teams in the ICC ODI rankings will qualify directly for the 2027 World Cup alongside hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe. Any reduction in the number of participating teams would leave fewer qualification spots available, making the road to the World Cup considerably more challenging for Associate nations.

With the tournament still more than a year away, it remains to be seen whether the ICC proceeds with the proposed change or retains the previously announced 14-team format.