The WCA ( World Cricketers Association ) has criticised the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) decision to change the format of the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup, saying the process lacked transparency and consultation. The players’ body believes major tournament reforms should involve discussions with players and stakeholders, especially when they affect teams preparing through the current qualification system.
WCA questions decision-making process
The WCA CEO said, “The ICC is entitled to determine the structure of its global events. However, when commitments are made to the game, qualification pathways are established, and countries and players invest years pursuing those opportunities, significant changes deserve genuine consultation, transparency and a clear explanation.
WCA STATEMENT ON CHANGES ANNOUNCED TO MEN’S ODI WORLD CUP FORMAT
— World Cricketers' Association (@WCA_Players) July 17, 2026
WCA is concerned by the ICC’s announcement regarding the revised format for the 2027 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup and believes it raises important questions about transparency, consultation and the game’s long-term… pic.twitter.com/GvOoeYunP8
He also added “For many players, qualifying for an ODI World Cup can be the pinnacle of a career. Players make significant professional and personal commitments in pursuit of that opportunity. To spend years working towards a clearly understood pathway, only to see that materially change within a cycle, has real consequences,” WCA CEO Tom Moffat said in the statement.
New format draws criticism
The ICC recently approved a new format for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. The tournament will feature 14 teams, but the three lowest-ranked qualified sides will first play a preliminary “Super Series.” Only one team from that stage will advance to join the remaining sides in the main competition.
The World Cricketers' Association has called for better transparency and communication, following the revamped format of 2027 ICC #Cricket #WorldCup.
— Cricket Guru (@CricketGuru_CG) July 17, 2026
While the idea to expand to 14 nations is good, but the decision for a mini qualifier within the tournament raises questions on… pic.twitter.com/BRyKR8CNYf
The tournament will then continue with two groups of six teams, followed by a “Super 7” stage before the semi-finals and final.
According to the WCA, the revised structure could reduce opportunities for lower-ranked and emerging cricket nations while making the road to the World Cup more difficult. The association said the format appears to conflict with the ICC’s stated goal of expanding the global reach of the sport.
While the ICC believes the new system will improve competitiveness, the WCA has called for greater transparency and proper consultation before introducing changes that affect players, teams and the international game.
