The ODI World Cup Qualifier format has drastically changed with the introduction of a multi-stage system for the 2027 tournament by the International Cricket Council.
The revised qualification model would see the final team after the 10-team ODI World Cup Qualifier get a direct berth into the main round, instead of going through an additional preliminary round which will be introduced in the tournament, dubbed the Super Series. This is a strong incentive system, with the first place providing “first to qualify” advantages.
Second, third and fourth-place teams in the Qualifier will move on to the Super Series round robin to compete for the remaining qualifying position. This extra layer provides more competition and keeps several competitive teams in the game after the first round.
The Qualifier is expected to retain the same format as before – two groups of 10 teams, followed by a Super Six stage. This continuity is for familiarity, as well as to fit the overall tournament redesign.
There will be 14 teams competing in the main tournament, which will have a three-stage structure, as per the ICC’s aim to increase the competitiveness of the match and its global outreach. The top eight teams in the ODI ranking list, up to September 2026, plus two of the three co-host countries (South Africa and Zimbabwe) will be directly qualified, with the remaining two countries moving to the qualification round.
The Qualifier winner will be awarded the 11th position and the 12th final position will be determined by the Super Series winner. This stacked credential system will add performance-based meritocracy and expanded competition. The Qualifier tournament is set to take place in early 2027 and the locations of the tournament have yet to be determined and it is an important one in the cycle leading up to the next big cricket tournament in the world.
