The ICC has rejected reports claiming that One-Day Internationals (ODIs) will be reduced from 50 overs to 40 overs. The cricket governing body said no such decision was approved during its Annual Conference in Edinburgh.
The speculation about changing the ODI format increased before the meeting. However, the ICC Board only discussed the future direction of cricket and reviewed presentations linked to the upcoming commercial cycle.
Officials confirmed that no formal proposal was presented or approved to shorten ODI matches. The traditional 50-over format will continue without any immediate changes.
The meeting also addressed discussions about expanding the World Test Championship. However, the ICC did not approve an increase in participating teams from nine to 12.
Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe are currently outside the World Test Championship structure. No decision was announced regarding their possible inclusion in future editions of the competition.
During the conference, the ICC also reviewed the status of USA Cricket and Cricket Canada. Both organizations will remain suspended due to ongoing governance concerns.
USA Cricket has been under suspension since September 2025. The suspension was linked to issues involving administration, stability, and compliance with ICC membership requirements.
The cricket body said restoring USA Cricket’s membership is important for the sport’s future. This is especially relevant as cricket prepares for its return to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Despite this importance, the ICC decided to continue the suspension while governance issues are addressed. The organization will monitor progress before making further decisions.
Cricket Canada will also remain suspended after facing similar internal management concerns. The ICC is reviewing the situation and considering possible developments related to a Canadian franchise joining Major League Cricket.
The conference also included updates about other cricket nations. France Cricket was placed on notice, while the Mauritius Cricket Federation received official approval as an Associate Member.
With Mauritius joining the organization, the ICC membership has increased to 111 countries. This includes 12 Full Members and 99 Associate Members from around the world.
The ICC Annual Conference was held in Edinburgh from July 8 to July 11. The meeting focused on cricket’s future plans, governance matters, and global development.
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The decisions made during the conference show that while the ICC continues to review possible improvements for cricket, no major change to the ODI format has been finalized. Fans can expect 50-over matches to continue under the current rules for now.
