New Delhi: Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association have strongly opposed the International Cricket Council’s changes to the qualification pathway and tournament structure for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup, describing the move as a setback for Associate nations.
The ICC recently revised the tournament format, which was originally planned to feature 14 teams divided into two groups of seven before a Super Six stage. Under the new arrangement, the bottom three qualifying teams will enter a Super Series, with only the winner progressing to the main stage alongside the top 11 teams.
The 12 teams in the main competition will be divided into two groups of six. The top three teams from each group, along with the next best performing side, will advance to a seven team Super 7 phase. The top four teams from that stage will then qualify for the semifinals.
Scotland and the Netherlands have raised concerns that the revised system significantly reduces meaningful opportunities for Associate nations to compete at the World Cup. They also questioned the decision making process, particularly because the changes were introduced less than 18 months before the tournament.
The two boards said changes to established qualification structures can create major sporting, financial and operational difficulties for nations with limited resources. They stressed that teams invest years preparing for World Cups and depend on predictable qualification pathways for planning.
They have also sought greater consultation with Associate Members and clearer communication from the ICC. According to the boards, meetings held after the format announcement have not resulted in a formal written resolution or sufficient clarity.
Both organisations argued that Associate nations have played an important role in creating some of international cricket’s most memorable moments. They urged the ICC to ensure emerging teams continue to receive genuine opportunities to qualify, compete and develop on the global stage.
