Netherlands Cricket and Cricket Scotland have slammed the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the new 2027 World Cup format. The apex body has made changes to the qualification round and the structure of the global tournament. The two boards were disappointed with the new development less than 18 months before the competition, saying the move could impact the progress made by the associate nations and limit their participation.
“Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB) are deeply disappointed by the International Cricket Council’s recent decision to implement significant structural changes to the ICC Men’s 50-over World Cup qualification pathway and tournament format with less than 18 months until the competition begins,” the joint statement read.
“These changes represent a setback to Associate Member cricket and risk undermining the progress made in recent years to grow the global game. At a time when cricket is seeking to expand its reach, attract new audiences and strengthen its position on the international sporting landscape, reducing meaningful opportunities for emerging nations sends entirely the wrong message.”
Both member nations question intention
Both countries questioned the process of introducing changes. They alleged that Associate Members were not given enough time to discuss, understand and respond regarding the implications.
“Decisions of this significance, particularly those directly affecting Associate Members, should be made clearly following meaningful consultation and with sufficient notice,” the boards mentioned.
“The timing of these changes, with less than eighteen months until the tournament, has given affected Members limited opportunity to contribute to the process or adapt. We believe greater engagement with Associate Members would have supported a more effective and collaborative approach and help maintain confidence in the qualification pathway,” they added.
New format for 2027 World Cup
The ICC announced a new structure in July, with a new three-stage format before the start of the knockout matches.
The three lowest-ranked qualifying teams will compete in a Super Series, and the winner will join 11 other nations in the second round, with the 12 teams getting divided into two groups of six each. There will be 30 matches, with the top three teams from both groups making it to the next round, along with the best fourth-place nation from the two groups.
The seven teams will then clash in Super 7, consisting of 21 matches. The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals, and the winners will meet in the final of the tournament. The ICC has backed the system, saying it will increase the competition level but Scotland and the Netherlands feel it could make things difficult for the Associate Nations.