Scotland & Netherlands hit out at ICC over new World Cup format
Dubai: Cricket Scotland and Netherlands Cricket have been left frustrated after the International Cricket Council (ICC) announce new 2027 World Cup format. The governing body altered both the qualification process and format of the global tournament. The two boards expressed disappointment at the changes, coming less than 18 months before the event, warning they could undermine the progress of…
Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association have expressed frustration over the International Cricket Council's (ICC) announcement of a new 2027 World Cup format. The ICC's changes to both the qualification process and tournament structure have left the two governing bodies feeling disappointed and concerned about the impact on Associate Nations.
The new format features three stages before the semi-finals, with the three lowest-ranked qualifying teams initially competing in a Super Series. The top teams from each of the two groups of six, along with the fourth-best team, advance to the Super 7 stage, where they play 21 matches. The final four teams then move on to the semi-finals.
While the ICC claims the new structure will elevate the level of competition, Scotland and the Netherlands fear it could hinder the progress of Associate Nations and reduce their chances of competing at the highest level. The Cricket Scotland and Royal Dutch Cricket Association have joined forces to voice their disappointment, stating that the changes are a setback for Associate Member cricket and risk undermining recent progress in growing the global game.
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