ICC proposes major overhaul of T20, ODI and Test World Cups

The International Cricket Council is considering sweeping changes to the structure of its major tournaments, including the T20 and ODI World Cups and the World Test Championship, according to reports from its recent annual conference in Edinburgh. The proposals, which could be implemented as soon as 2027, aim to enhance competitiveness, commercial appeal, and the frequency of high-profile matches.

A leading proposal would see the T20 World Cup adopt a new Super 10 stage to replace the current Super Eight phase from the 2028 edition. Under the new format, 20 teams would initially be divided into five groups of four, reducing the first round to 30 matches. The top teams would then progress to a 20-match Super 10 round, a structure officials believe will create more marquee contests before the knockout stages. This change is also expected to facilitate more meetings between India and Pakistan, the sport's most commercially lucrative fixture.

Simultaneously, the ICC is discussing a significant overhaul of the 2027 ODI World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. A proposal under consideration would reduce the participating teams from 14 to 12...