The 10 teams set to gain direct qualification for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027 have been finalised, while the West Indies will have to go through the qualifying tournament to secure a place in the event.
The 2027 ODI World Cup will feature 14 teams, making it the first edition of the tournament to expand to 14 participating sides. Hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe have already secured direct qualification by virtue of hosting the tournament.
In addition to the two hosts, the eight teams occupying the top eight positions in the ICC ODI rankings on September 30 will qualify directly for the World Cup.
Afghanistan have virtually secured a place among the top eight after their thrilling victory over Ireland in Belfast.
The defending champions Australia, along with India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, England, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, are therefore set to join hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe as the 10 directly qualified teams.
Meanwhile, two-time former world champions West Indies, currently ranked 10th, have two ODIs against India remaining before the cut-off date. However, even winning both matches will not be enough for them to return to the top eight.
As a result, West Indies will have to play the World Cup Qualifier scheduled for February 2027 to earn a place in the tournament.
The qualification pathway for Associate teams will consist of several stages. The 12 teams in the Challenge League will be divided into two groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the Qualifier Play-Off.
Meanwhile, the top four teams among the eight sides competing in Cricket World Cup League 2 will earn direct entry into the World Cup Qualifier.
The final four World Cup places will be decided through the 10-team World Cup Qualifier, scheduled to be played from February 22 to March 23, 2027.
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