The ICC is restoring a broader field while preserving a long second phase, creating more opportunities for emerging teams and more consequences for every group match.
How the 14-team format works
The teams will be divided into two groups of seven. Each side plays the other six teams in its group, giving every participant a meaningful schedule rather than a brief preliminary appearance. The top three from each group advance to the Super Six.
In that second phase, teams play qualifiers from the opposite group. The leading four then move to the semifinals, followed by the final. The structure combines 54 matches with a pathway that rewards consistency across several weeks.
Why carried points matter
Results against fellow qualifiers from the same opening group carry into the Super Six. That rule prevents early matches from becoming irrelevant and rewards teams that defeat strong opponents before advancing.
It also makes qualification more complex for supporters. Clear tables and broadcast explanations will be essential so audiences understand which points move forward and how net run rate may influence the semifinal race.
The argument for expansion
A 14-team event gives more national programs access to cricket's largest one-day stage. Tournament appearances can support sponsorship, government recognition and participation in countries where the sport competes for attention and resources.
Expansion also tests competitive depth. The strongest teams retain advantages in domestic structures and player pools, but longer group schedules give emerging sides more than one opportunity to demonstrate progress.
What the change means
For leading nations, there is less room to treat opening matches as preparation. A defeat against a team that also qualifies can follow them into the Super Six. Selection must balance conditions, workload and the need to begin strongly.
For the event itself, the format creates a larger footprint and more inventory for broadcasters. The central challenge is maintaining urgency across 54 matches. If the carried-points system produces close Super Six standings, the expansion could combine inclusion with a compelling finish.
