Venues revealed for 2027 ICC ODI World Cup
If the Indian fans were waiting for an official announcement to move on from the ghost of the 2023 ODI World Cup, it's here. The action has kicked off officially in the build-up to the next edition of the ICC tournament. South Africa, the designated hosts of the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, announced the venues for the marquee event on Saturday. The 14th edition of the glorious tournament is scheduled to kick off in October-November, two years from now in 2027. Having lifted the 2023 ODI World Cup trophy in Ahmedabad, Australia will land in South Africa as the defending champions.
South Africa set to host 44 games in 2027 ICC ODI World Cup; Zimbabwe, Namibia also in the fray
Cricket South Africa has announced the venues for the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, which will take place across South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Matches will be staged in major South African cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, Bloemfontein, East London, and Paarl. Out of the 54 scheduled fixtures, 44 will be held in South Africa, while Namibia and Zimbabwe will share the remaining 10.
The confirmation of venues came alongside the establishment of the Local Organising Committee Board (LOCA), headed by former South African cabinet minister Trevor Manuel, who will serve as the Independent Chairman. For South Africa and Zimbabwe, the upcoming ODI World Cup edition marks the second time they will act as co-hosts, having previously shared duties in the 2003 season. Namibia, on the other hand, will be hosting matches for the first time in its history.
“CSA’s vision is to stage a global, inspiring event which will reflect the face of South Africa—diverse, inclusive, and united. The tournament will be vibrantly different in its style and atmosphere, and its experiences. It will provide players, fans and partners with the most unique, unforgettable experience," CSA said in the official statement.
“CSA offers its full support to the appointed LOCB and is confident in their ability to successfully deliver on the mandate set, ensuring a seamless and impactful event," the statement added.
As for the competition format, the 2027 ODI World Cup will feature two groups of seven teams. The top three sides from each group will move forward to the Super Six stage, reviving the structure that came in effect in 2003. Since they are among the hosts, South Africa and Zimbabwe have already secured automatic qualification.
The other berths will be filled by the top eight teams in the ICC ODI rankings as of March 31, 2027, along with sides progressing through the qualification route. Notably, despite being a co-host, Namibia does not receive direct entry because it is not a full ICC member and will need to qualify through the standard pathway.
