New format increases chances of another blockbuster encounter

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a new format for the 2027 Men’s One-Day International World Cup, introducing changes that could increase the chances of another Pakistan-India showdown. Although the tournament will continue with 14 participating teams, the revised structure changes how sides progress through the competition and reshapes the path to the knockout stage. These updates aim to make every match more meaningful while keeping the tournament highly competitive.

Under the new format, the three lowest-ranked qualifying teams will compete in a preliminary round, with only one side advancing to the main competition. Meanwhile, the remaining 12 teams will be divided into two groups of six instead of the previous arrangement. After the group stage, the tournament will feature a new Super Seven round, replacing the earlier Super Six format and creating more high-profile fixtures during the event.

Quarter-finals removed as tournament structure changes

Moreover, the ICC has removed the quarter-final stage, meaning teams will have fewer knockout matches but a longer and more competitive round-robin phase. This change increases the possibility of Pakistan and India meeting more than once during the tournament if both teams progress. Since the two rivals now face each other only in ICC competitions because of ongoing political tensions, every meeting between them attracts massive global attention and generates significant commercial and broadcasting revenue.

The two neighbouring nations have not played a bilateral cricket series since India toured Pakistan in 2006 for Test and One-Day International matches. As a result, ICC tournaments remain the only regular platform where cricket fans can witness one of the sport’s biggest rivalries. The governing body said the revised World Cup structure would create greater context, stronger competition, and more meaningful contests throughout the tournament.

ICC also updates 2028 T20 World Cup

In addition, the ICC also approved changes to the 2028 Men’s T20 World Cup, which will continue as a 20-team tournament with an updated qualification system. Ten teams will now advance from the group stage instead of eight, while the top two sides in the Super Ten round will qualify directly for the semi-finals. The remaining semi-finalists will be decided through a newly introduced eliminator stage, adding another competitive element to the tournament.