ICC Makes Final Call on Proposed 40-Over ODI Format

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made no decision to reduce One-Day Internationals from 50 overs to 40, dismissing speculation that a major change to the format was approved at its Annual Conference in Edinburgh.

Although the ICC Board discussed the long-term future of cricket and reviewed presentations related to the next commercial cycle, no formal proposal to shorten ODIs was approved.

The meeting also ended without progress on expanding the World Test Championship from nine to 12 teams. Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe remain outside the competition, with no announcement regarding their inclusion in future editions.

The ICC also decided to continue the suspensions of USA Cricket and Cricket Canada.

USA Cricket has remained suspended since September 2025 over governance concerns, including administrative instability and failure to meet ICC membership requirements. While the governing body recognized the importance of restoring USA Cricket’s membership before the sport returns to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028, it opted to maintain the suspension.

Cricket Canada, which was suspended in June, will also remain suspended until it addresses its internal governance issues. The ICC is additionally monitoring the possibility of a Canadian franchise joining Major League Cricket before taking any further action.

Meanwhile, France Cricket has been placed on notice, while the Mauritius Cricket Federation has been officially admitted as an Associate Member.

Mauritius’ inclusion has increased the ICC’s 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.