'Incredibly disappointing' - Scott Edwards, Paul Stirling among players to criticise ICC's revamped ODI World Cup format

Several international captains and players have voiced their disappointment over the ICC's revamped format for the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup, with many expressing concern that the changes will further limit opportunities for Associate nations on cricket's biggest stage.

The reactions were shared through the World Cricketers' Association (WCA) after the ICC approved a new tournament structure. Under the revised format, the three lowest-ranked qualified teams will first compete in a Super Series, with only one side progressing to the 12-team main tournament. The competition will then move into a Super 7 stage.

The decision has drawn criticism from players representing both Full Member and Associate nations, who believe it contradicts the ICC's objective of growing the game globally.

Netherlands captain Scott Edwards said the revised qualification pathway changes the reward for years of hard work put in by Associate teams.

"Qualifying for an ODI World Cup is a huge achievement for any country, so when the reality of that opportunity changes after years of planning, it's incredibly disappointing. The ICC talks a lot about growing the game globally but decisions like this make it harder for associate nations to play against the best teams in the world. Those opportunities are what helps countries improve and inspires the next generation of players. If we're serious about making cricket a global sport, we should be creating more opportunities on the global stage, not less," he was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz. 

Namibia skipper Gerhard Erasmus stressed that the ODI World Cup remains the pinnacle for players from Associate nations, many of whom build their careers around the tournament.

"For players in many countries, an ODI World Cup isn't just another tournament, it's our long form and something careers are built around and generations of players aspire to. We all accept that you have to earn the right to be there, but we also want qualification to provide a real opportunity to compete on the biggest stage. This follows a long history of limited opportunity at associate level."

Ireland captain Paul Stirling pointed to football's FIFA World Cup as an example of how global tournaments benefit from the participation of emerging nations.

"The smaller and associate countries have consistently proven to add value and interest at global events. The football World Cup we've just witnessed is testament to that in other sports and it would be great to see cricket take a similar approach to maximise opportunities for the game."

Scotland captain Richie Berrington said players should have a greater say in major decisions that impact the sport.

"Players don't expect to make every decision, but we should be meaningfully consulted on decisions that have significant impacts on the game and on players' careers. Better decisions are made when different perspectives are brought to the table, and we're urging the game to start doing that properly."

USA all-rounder Harmeet Singh highlighted the wider impact of World Cup opportunities on developing cricket nations.

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"Countries, and players invest years preparing for opportunities like an ODI World Cup. Those opportunities mean a lot, not just for the players involved but for growing the game in emerging countries and for the fans who invest in the game. That's why decisions like these matter well beyond one tournament."

New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell also backed greater inclusivity in global events.

"We are fully supportive of players and countries around the world being provided with consistent and fair opportunities to reach and compete on the game's biggest platforms."

The criticism from players across different cricketing nations highlights growing concerns over the ICC's revised World Cup structure, with many believing the changes reduce opportunities for Associate teams rather than expanding the global reach of the game.