ICC's latest move could result in more IND vs PAK fixtures [Source: AFP]According to emerging reports, the Jay Shah-led ICC is considering making significant amendments to the existing formats of the ODI and T20 World Cups as well as the World Test Championship (WTC). While the new World Cup format could ensure more India vs Pakistan fixtures in the marquee tournament, the WTC will witness more knockout matches rather than a solitary final. Recently, the ICC conducted its annual conference in Edinburgh, Scotland. The meeting involved some of the most influential decision-makers, who discussed several proposals to secure the future of international cricket. ICC's proposed changes might lead to more India vs Pakistan World Cup fixturesAccording to the BBC, the Jay Shah-led ICC is considering reducing the number of teams from 14 to 12 for the ODI World Cups. Additionally, a 'Super Seven' stage might be in place, which means there could be changes to the existing format, which includes only round-robin fixtures followed by the semifinals between the top four teams. This move might even be implemented in the upcoming World Cup edition, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in 2027. Additionally, the T20 World Cup might not include a Super Eight stage, unlike in previous editions. In the 2026 T20 World Cup, the top four teams from each group proceeded to the Super 8, where each side played three games, with the top two from each Super 8 group qualifying for the semifinals. However, the format for the upcoming T20 World Cup editions will likely be different, as the ICC reportedly plans to introduce a Super 10 stage following the first round. Also Read: BCCI Take A Final Call On Gautam Gambhir Amid Support Staff Falling ApartThe BBC report suggests that the modification of the World Cup formats is aimed at maximising India vs Pakistan fixtures. Despite not playing bilateral series against each other, arch-rivals India and Pakistan continue to clash in the ICC events, other than the WTC. Considering the marquee encounter has been a massive source of engagement and revenue, the Jay Shah-led ICC is apparently pushing for more matches between the Asian giants through these strategic shifts. WTC to include semifinals before finalIn a groundbreaking development, the ICC is also mulling over bringing a two-tier knockout stage to the WTC. Currently, nine of the twelve full-member teams have the WTC status and participate in the most prestigious ICC tournament. The Jay Shah-led ICC releases the updated WTC table after each Test match. The two-year cycle comprises multiple bilateral assignments between the nine teams, with the top two qualifying for the final of the competition. However, the BBC report revealed that the ICC could include a semifinal stage before the all-important final in its upcoming editions. This means the top four teams, based on PCT, will clash in the semifinals, with the winning sides advancing to the final of the tournament. This move is aimed at making the WTC more competitive and generating more interest among the audience of Test cricket. However, as India and Pakistan don't play bilateral Test matches, there is no chance of witnessing their clash in the purest format. Expansion of the WTC is on hold!Earlier, several reports suggested that the ICC could add more teams to the WTC, making it a 12-team competition. Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and Ireland were supposed to participate in the tournament and join the race to the WTC mace. However, the proposal was kept on hold in the latest meeting in Edinburgh, with the ICC persisting with nine teams for the next cycle. Also Read: Washington Sundar Riding His Luck! Ball Hits Stumps, But Bails Unmoved
