The ICC’s revised format for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup has received criticism from several international captains and players. Many believe the new structure will reduce opportunities for Associate nations to compete on cricket’s biggest stage.
The reactions were shared through the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) after the ICC approved the new format. Under the revised system, the three lowest-ranked qualified teams will first play in a Super Series. Only one team will qualify for the 12-team main tournament before the competition moves into the Super 7 stage.
Players Raise Concerns Over New World Cup Qualification System
Netherlands captain Scott Edwards said the new format changes the reward for years of hard work by Associate nations.
“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.”
Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus also expressed disappointment.
“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 skipper Paul Stirling pointed to football’s FIFA World Cup as an example of giving emerging nations more chances. Scotland captain Richie Berrington said players should be consulted before major decisions are made. USA all-rounder Harmeet Singh highlighted the importance of World Cup opportunities for developing cricket nations, while New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell supported fair and consistent opportunities for all teams to reach the sport’s biggest events.
The criticism from players across different countries shows growing concern that the ICC’s new World Cup format could limit the growth of cricket instead of expanding it globally.
