WCA concerned about ODI World Cup format

WCA concerned about ODI World Cup formatImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Scotland captain Richie Berrington says players need to be "meaningfully consulted" on significant issues in cricketByMandeep SangheraBBC Sport journalistPublished9 minutes agoThe World Cricketers' Association says it is "concerned" by how the 2027 men's 50-over World Cup will be structured.It warned that the format, which eliminates two of the three lowest-ranked teams early, raises "questions about transparency, consultation and the game's long-term commitment to global growth".The main part of the tournament, which begins with 14 teams, will feature just 12 sides.The three lowest-ranked qualifiers will contest a first round that will result in just one progressing to join the remaining 11 teams in the group stage.The rest of the tournament will proceed with two groups of six, and the top three from each and the next-best ranked team will progress to a round-robin 'super seven' stage, replacing the 'super six'. The top four teams from the 'super seven' then progress to the semi-finals.The WCA said it is "concerned that the revised format falls short of the opportunity presented by expansion to 14 teams".It added: "For some countries, qualification will no longer guarantee a genuine World Cup campaign or the opportunity to compete against established nations, reducing the potential sporting, developmental and commercial benefits for some players and emerging cricket markets."The changes will be in place for the 2027 edition, which is being co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.The 2023 World Cup featured just 10 teams. The last time it was a 14-team tournament was 2015, when teams were split into two groups of seven, with each side guaranteed six matches.The ICC had said the new format "creates greater context, competitiveness and consequence during the event".It has been...