At the ICC Annual Conference in Edinburgh, held from Jul 8 – Jul 11, a few key issues had to be discussed, and now finally the details of that meet have emerged. For starters, the apex cricket body has taken no decision on reducing the ODI format from 50 to 40 overs, ending all speculations about the future of the format.
No addition to WTC teams
There were a few reports doing the rounds, that the ICC might just eventually truncate the one-day format, but the same was not approved. But what was discussed overall is, the long-term strategy for the game, and restructuring the sport in the next commercial cycle.
Apart from that, there was no decision taken on the expansion of number of teams in the World Test Championships — from 9 to 12. There was a growing need to include teams like Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe, but they still remain outside the purview of WTC. Apar from that, the official media rights partner — JioStar also got the opportunity to address the ICC.
USA & Canada remain suspended
Another point of discussion was USA Cricket and Cricket Canada. After the ICC annual meeting, both the boards still remain suspended. While it may not affect Canada as much, but the suspension could be a big blow for USA, who are in line for a direct qualification into the LA28 Olympics, by virtue of being the host nation.
Both the boards will remain suspended, unless the internal issues are not resolved. In fact, the ICC is continuing to monitor the chance of a Canadian team joining the MLC, before reaching a decision. Lastly, Mauritius has been added to the list of Associate member — and now the complete ICC roster has 111 countries — 12 full members and 99 associate nations.
