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ICC changes World Cup format to increase India-Pakistan matchups

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 8:11 PM

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

ICC changes World Cup format to increase India-Pakistan matchups

Summary

The ICC's new format for the 2027 ODI World Cup potentially allows India and Pakistan to meet up to three times. The tournament will feature 14 teams, but only one of the three lowest-ranked sides will progress past the initial stages. Each group will consist of six teams, with the top teams advancing to a Super 7 round. Depending on their standings, India and Pakistan could face each other again in the semi-finals or finals, capitalizing on the tournament's structure to create high-stakes matchups. Criticism has arisen regarding the limited opportunities for emerging nations within this expanded setup, raising questions about inclusivity in major events.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•ICC's 2027 ODI World Cup format allows India-Pakistan to meet three times.
•Tournament features 14 teams but limits progression for lower-ranked sides.
•Teams will play in groups of six, with top teams advancing to Super 7.
•India and Pakistan could meet in groups, Super 7, semis, or finals.
•Changes face criticism for reducing competitive chances for emerging nations.

Latest Updates

8:11 PMYahoo Sports — India and Pakistan to face each other three times? ICC's new World Cup format explained

What they're saying

"
The International Cricket Council's new format for the 2027 ODI World Cup has drawn criticism. This revised structure increases the chances of India and Pakistan meeting multiple times. Emerging nations face limited meaningful participation in the expanded tournament. The format aims to make every match more significant from the start. This change also allows for potential repeat encounters between top rivals.
— Yahoo Sports

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