Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) have expressed their dismay over the adjustments to the format of the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup.
The two Associate nations expressed their disappointment at the manner in which the changes were implemented, and voiced concerns over the potential impact that the changes could have on non-Full Member teams. The joint statement follows two meetings Scotland and the Netherlands, and others Associate Members, held with the ICC to discuss the new structure. They have not received a response from them after their second meeting, despite over two weeks having passed since then, reports the boards. ([Global Banking & Finance Review][1])
The boards feel that sweeping changes to the World Cup structure should be done through appropriate consultation and especially when it has implications on teams that have been years in the works to qualify. They also pointed out that the idea of changing such things relatively near the tournament is difficult for smaller cricket boards to prepare, plan and finance.
In July, the ICC unveiled the new format, stating that the modifications would help to create a more competitive match and give greater weight to the matches during the tournament. The World Cup 2027 will go ahead with 14 teams still participating but the path to the semi-finals has changed drastically. ([icc][2])
The new format of the ODI World Cup 2027 is explained here.Here is the explanation of the new format of ODI World Cup 2027.
The three lowest-ranked of the 14 qualifiers will play each other in a Super Series to determine the two teams that will advance to the final tournament.The three lowest-ranked of 14 qualifiers will face each other in a Super Series to decide the two teams to advance to the final tournament. The 12th, 13th and 14th ranked teams will compete against one another, and the winner will advance to the main stage.
The other 12 teams will then be split into two groups of six teams. The top three teams in each group plus the next-best team in both groups will go on to a seven-team Super 7 format. The top four teams from that round will go on to face each other in semi-finals. ([icc][3])
The timing of change is a key issue for Scotland and the Netherlands. The boards feel that both sides should have been given more time to understand and prepare for the new qualification route to the World Cup, which have both advanced to the next round of the qualification phase in February 2027.
The joint statement also said that too many changes could now impact confidence among Associate Members, particularly if they spend great resources developing players and getting ready for the World Cup.
South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will host the 2027 ODI World Cup which is to start in October 2027. ICC states that the new format aims to produce greater meaningful competitions and competition levels throughout the tournament. ([icc][2])
But for Scotland and the Netherlands it’s more than just a question of format. They are primarily concerned about the lack of consultation with Associate Members prior to introducing this important change and the process behind the decision.