Edinburgh, July 13: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has dismissed speculation over an immediate reduction of One-Day Internationals from 50 overs to 40 overs, with no such proposal receiving approval during its Annual Conference held in Edinburgh.
Reports had suggested that the ICC was considering shortening the ODI format as part of its efforts to modernise the game. However, while the Board discussed the sport’s long-term strategy and future commercial roadmap, no formal decision was taken on altering the format.
No progress on WTC expansion
The ICC also refrained from expanding the World Test Championship (WTC), with the tournament set to continue as a nine-team competition for now. Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe remain outside the WTC, as the Board made no announcement regarding their inclusion in future editions during the four-day conference.
The meeting included presentations on the ICC’s strategic vision for the next commercial cycle, while media rights partner JioStar also briefed the Board. However, the governing body did not disclose details of those discussions.
USA Cricket and Cricket Canada remain suspended
The ICC Board decided to continue the suspension of both USA Cricket (USAC) and Cricket Canada over governance concerns.
USA Cricket has remained suspended since September 2025.
Although the ICC acknowledged the importance of restoring its membership before cricket returns at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, the Board opted against lifting the suspension at this stage.
Cricket Canada, which was suspended in June, will also remain under suspension until its governance issues are resolved. The ICC is additionally monitoring developments surrounding the possibility of a Canadian franchise joining Major League Cricket before making any further decisions.
Mauritius joins ICC family
Elsewhere, the ICC placed France Cricket on notice, while the Mauritius Cricket Federation was granted Associate Member status.
The addition takes the ICC’s global membership to 111 countries, comprising 12 Full Members and 99 Associate Members.
The ICC Annual Conference was held in Edinburgh from July 8 to July 11. (Agencies)
