The ICC has officially released the full schedule for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup, confirming the tournament will run from October 2 to November 21. South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia will co-host the event, which features a revised format and an expanded 14-team field.
Johannesburg’s Wanderers Stadium has been selected as the venue for the tournament final on November 21. The stadium will also host the high-profile Group A fixture between India and Pakistan on October 10. By awarding both the showpiece event and the India-Pakistan match to the Wanderers, the schedule mirrors the 2003 edition, positioning Johannesburg as the ceremonial center of the tournament.
The competition begins with a ‘Super Series’ in Namibia from October 2 to October 6, which will determine the final four spots in the tournament. Currently, 10 teams have qualified, with the remaining four to be decided through this preliminary phase. The main 12-team group stage officially opens on October 7 at Newlands in Cape Town, featuring a match between 2023 finalists India and Australia.
Departing from the 10-team round-robin format used in 2019 and 2023, the 2027 edition introduces a ‘Super 7’ phase following the group stage. This structural change is aimed at keeping more teams in contention longer while maintaining competitive balance through the inclusion of the best fourth-placed finisher from the groups.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah stated that the host nations are prepared for the global event. “South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia will provide an unforgettable stage for the world’s best teams, combining a deep passion for cricket, extraordinary destinations and a renowned warmth of welcome,” Shah said.
Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Board Chairman Trevor Manuel noted the region’s readiness, stating that the three countries are prepared to welcome supporters back to the continent. While 10 teams have secured their berths, the final qualification details in Namibia remain a focal point for associate nations.
Preliminary reports and tournament projections currently identify Shubman Gill as the likely captain to lead the Indian squad in 2027. The team’s campaign starts with the marquee fixture against Australia in Cape Town.
2027 World Cup Key Match Dates
| Date | Fixture / Phase | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 2 – Oct 6 | Super Series (Qualification) | Namibia (Various) |
| Oct 7 | India vs Australia | Newlands, Cape Town |
| Oct 10 | India vs Pakistan | Wanderers, Johannesburg |
| Nov 21 | World Cup Final | Wanderers, Johannesburg |
