Scotland Cricket and the Netherlands Cricket Board have expressed serious concerns to the ICC over changes to the format of the 2027 ODI World Cup less than 18 months before the tournament.
Under the new format, the 12th, 13th and 14th teams to qualify will compete in a Super Series, with only one team able to advance to the next stage of the World Cup.
Both boards say the change will limit opportunities for Associate nations to compete at the global level and could undermine efforts made in recent years to expand the game worldwide.
According to Scotland and the Netherlands, they met with the ICC twice along with other Associate boards, seeking a written explanation for the format change and better consultation on future decisions. However, despite two weeks having passed since the second meeting, they have received no response from the ICC.
The two boards said that suddenly changing the World Cup qualification structure affects team planning, financial arrangements and players’ preparations.
They urged the ICC to re-engage with Associate nations and ensure transparent consultation in decisions concerning the future of global cricket.
The boards also reiterated that Associate nations need greater assurance and stability in the qualification process, particularly as teams take long-term decisions regarding funding, scheduling and player development. They called for a more predictable and inclusive approach to future World Cup qualification formats.
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