🏏 ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2027 — OCTOBER 4 TO NOVEMBER 21 — SOUTH AFRICA · ZIMBABWE · NAMIBIA
ICC World Cup 2027 — Official Guide

CRICKET
WORLD CUP
2027

Follow the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 with schedules, teams, fixtures, venues, standings, player profiles, match previews and tournament updates.

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A HISTORIC RETURN TO AFRICA

The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 will be the 14th edition of cricket's premier One Day International (ODI) tournament and is scheduled to take place from 4 October to 21 November 2027. Hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, the event marks the return of the Cricket World Cup to African soil for the first time since 2003.

Fourteen teams will compete across 54 matches in a format featuring two groups of seven teams. The top three teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage, where teams will face qualifiers from the opposite group before progressing to the semi-finals and final.

Organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Cricket World Cup is held every four years and remains the most prestigious tournament in the ODI format. The previous edition, hosted by India in 2023, concluded with Australia claiming a record-extending sixth World Cup title.

South Africa and Zimbabwe will co-host the tournament for the second time after the 2003 Cricket World Cup, while Namibia will make history as a first-time World Cup host. The 2027 edition is expected to showcase world-class venues, passionate crowds and the sport's biggest stars competing for cricket's ultimate prize.

14
Teams
54
Matches
13
Venues

TOURNAMENT STRUCTURE

  • Group Stage — 2 Groups of 7

    Fourteen teams are divided into two groups of seven. Each team plays every other team in its group once, with the top three teams advancing to the Super Six stage.

  • Super Six Stage

    The top three teams from each group qualify for the Super Six. Teams carry forward selected points and face the three qualifiers from the opposite group.

  • Points Carry Forward System

    A modified Points Carried Forward (PCF) system returns for 2027, rewarding teams for performances against fellow qualifiers during the group stage.

  • Semi-Finals & Final

    The top four teams from the Super Six standings progress to the semi-finals, with the winners competing for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 title.

  • 48-Day Tournament

    From 4 October to 21 November 2027, cricket fans across the globe will witness 54 matches across 3 nations and multiple world-class stadiums.

THREE NATIONS, ONE DREAM

For the first time in over two decades, three African nations share the privilege of hosting cricket's greatest spectacle. Each brings a unique cricket culture, stunning venues and passionate fanbase.

8 Venues · 41 Matches 🇿🇦

SOUTH AFRICA

The lead host nation provides the tournament's centerpiece, bringing the Cricket World Cup back to the continent for the first time since 2003. South Africa boasts a deeply rooted cricket culture with a legendary history of producing world-class talent and hosting elite international events. Iconic venues across cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban will showcase the pinnacle of One Day International cricket in electrifying atmospheres.

3 Venues · 10 Matches 🇿🇼

ZIMBABWE

Returning as a World Cup co-host for the first time since 2003, Zimbabwe automatically qualifies as a Full Member to showcase its deep-rooted cricket passion. The nation is expanding its tournament footprint by introducing a brand-new stadium near Victoria Falls, ensuring an unforgettable experience for traveling fans. Matches in Harare and Bulawayo will complete a vibrant schedule driven by a proud and loud domestic fanbase eager to witness world-class ODI cricket at home.

1 Venue · 3 Matches 🇳🇦

NAMIBIA

Namibia makes historic strides as they co-host cricket's premier tournament for the very first time. Since their inspiring breakthrough in recent ICC global tournaments, the nation's passion for cricket has reached unprecedented heights. Playing on home soil provides a golden opportunity to showcase their rising talent, with a vibrant and welcoming crowd guaranteed to create an unforgettable, historic atmosphere for traveling fans.

14 TEAMS, ONE WORLD CUP

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 brings together 14 elite national teams from across the globe. Featuring former champions, top-ranked ODI sides and ambitious challengers, the tournament promises world-class cricket and unforgettable moments.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Every Cricket World Cup creates new legends and unforgettable performances. These are the players most likely to define the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 — world-class batters, bowlers and all-rounders carrying the hopes of their nations on cricket's biggest stage.

🏏
VIRAT KOHLI
India
🇮🇳
Role
Top-order Batsman
Status
Active Legend

Known worldwide as "King Kohli", :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} is considered one of the greatest batsmen of all time. A global cricket icon, he is one of the most decorated players in ICC history and a worldwide phenomenon in popularity. Renowned for thriving under pressure, he holds the all-time record for the most centuries in ODI (One Day Internationals).

★ Cricket Legend
🏏
BABAR AZAM
Pakistan
🇵🇰
Role
Top-order Batsman
Status
Key Player

Known for his classical and elegant technique, :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} is the central pillar of Pakistan’s batting lineup. He consistently ranks among the world’s top batsmen thanks to his incredible consistency and ability to accumulate runs in all conditions. His calm temperament and technical mastery make him one of the most reliable batters in international cricket.

★ World-Class Batsman
🏏
SURYAKUMAR YADAV
India
🇮🇳
Position
T20 Batter
Style
360° Attacker

Known as "SKY", :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} is famous for his ability to score in every direction of the field with unorthodox and explosive stroke play. He revolutionized modern T20 batting with his fearless approach, turning impossible angles into consistent scoring options. His creativity and tempo control make him one of the most destructive white-ball batters in world cricket.

★ 360° Genius
🏏
TRAVIS HEAD
Australia
🇦🇺
Position
Top-order Batter
Role
Aggressive Match-winner

One of the most destructive and feared batters in modern cricket, :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} has built a reputation as a “big-match player,” delivering in high-pressure finals and decisive moments. He has been a key figure in Australia’s recent global successes, often setting the tone with explosive starts and relentless attacking intent. His ability to dominate bowling attacks from the outset makes him one of the most dangerous white-ball batters in the world today.

★ Big Match Winner
🎯
JASPRIT BUMRAH
India
🇮🇳
Role
Fast Bowler
Style
Elite Yorker Specialist

Regarded as one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket, :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} possesses a highly unique and unorthodox bowling action that makes it extremely difficult for batters to read his deliveries. He is lethal with both pace and pinpoint accuracy, especially with yorkers aimed at the batter’s feet in death overs. His consistency and control across all formats make him one of the most complete fast bowlers of the modern era.

★ World-Class Bowler
🏏
SHUBMAN GILL
India
🇮🇳
Position
Top-order Batter
Status
Rising Star

Touted as the next “prince” of Indian cricket, :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} is widely regarded as one of the most elegant young batters in the game. He combines effortless timing with a natural ability to score runs consistently, showing maturity well beyond his years. Already leading major franchise sides and breaking scoring records at a young age, he is seen as a future cornerstone of Indian cricket.

★ Future Superstar

ICC MEN'S CRICKET WORLD CUP 2027 FIXTURES

54 matches across 49 days. The full 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup schedule spans three host nations (South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia) and features 14 teams competing across 12 venues, including group stage, Super Sixes, and knockout phases.

WORLD-CLASS STADIUMS

Eight world-class cricket venues across South Africa, selected by Cricket South Africa (CSA), will host matches during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. The tournament will also include venues in Zimbabwe and Namibia, showcasing the growth of cricket across southern Africa.

🏟
~34,000 seats
Wanderers Stadium
Johannesburg · South Africa

Cricket South Africa (CSA) selected this venue as part of its elite group of World Cup stadiums, based on infrastructure quality, hotel capacity, and proximity to major airports. Wanderers Stadium is the premier cricket ground in South Africa and one of the most iconic venues in world cricket, known as “The Bullring” due to its intense atmosphere and steep, intimidating stands.

Nickname The Bullring
Country South Africa
🏟
~25,000 seats
Newlands Cricket Ground
Cape Town · South Africa

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cricket venues in the world, Newlands Cricket Ground is famous for its breathtaking backdrop featuring Table Mountain and Devil’s Peak. The scenic setting combined with its rich cricketing history makes it one of the most iconic stadiums in South Africa.

View Table Mountain backdrop
Country South Africa
🏟
~22,000 seats
Centurion Park (SuperSport Park)
Centurion · Pretoria Region · South Africa

A modern and versatile cricket venue known for its excellent playing surface and open grassy banks where fans can enjoy a relaxed, picnic-style match experience. Centurion Park is one of South Africa’s most popular international cricket grounds and a key venue in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.

Style Modern multi-purpose cricket ground
Country South Africa
🏟
~25,000 seats
Kingsmead Cricket Ground
Durban · South Africa

Located close to the Indian Ocean, Kingsmead Cricket Ground is known for its unique coastal conditions. Humidity, sea breeze, and occasional swing-friendly conditions make it one of the most tactically challenging venues for bowlers and batters alike during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.

Condition Coastal swing-friendly pitch
Country South Africa
🏟
~19,000 seats
St George's Park
Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) · South Africa

One of the oldest Test cricket grounds in South Africa, St George's Park is famous for its rich tradition and unique matchday atmosphere. The venue is well known for its iconic brass band that performs throughout matches, creating a distinctive and lively environment for players and fans during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.

Tradition Historic brass band atmosphere
Country South Africa
🏟
~10,000 seats
Harare Sports Club
Harare · Zimbabwe

Located in the heart of Zimbabwe’s capital and surrounded by jacaranda trees, Harare Sports Club is the historic home of Zimbabwean cricket. It serves as a traditional and iconic venue, with the ability to expand capacity using temporary stands for major international fixtures during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.

Setting Central urban cricket ground
Country Zimbabwe
🏟
~8,000–10,000 seats
FNB Namibia Cricket Ground
Windhoek · Namibia

A newly built, state-of-the-art cricket venue developed as part of Namibia’s sporting legacy project for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. Designed to international standards, the stadium will serve as a long-term hub for cricket development in the country, combining modern facilities with a strong focus on tourism and sporting infrastructure growth.

Status Newly constructed international venue
Country Namibia

HISTORIC RIVALRIES

The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup is where historic rivalries are born, renewed, and settled. These matches go beyond sport, carrying deep cultural, historical, and national significance that makes every encounter feel monumental.

🇮🇳🇵🇰
INDIA VS PAKISTAN
Cricket’s Greatest Rivalry
212
Total Matches
82
India Wins
84
Pakistan Wins
46
No Result / Draws

The India vs Pakistan rivalry is widely regarded as the most intense and politically charged in world cricket. It reflects decades of history, national identity, and sporting pressure, with global audiences of hundreds of millions tuning in whenever the two sides meet. Pakistan dominated the early decades, while India has held the upper hand in ICC tournaments and modern white-ball cricket, shaping a “two-era” rivalry that continues to define the sport.

🇦🇺🏴
AUSTRALIA VS ENGLAND
The Ashes
74
Series Played
35
Australia Wins
32
England Wins
7
Drawn Series

The Ashes is the oldest and most prestigious rivalry in cricket, first contested in 1882 and played exclusively in Test format. Every two years, Australia and England compete in a five-match series alternating between the two countries, with the winner awarded custody of the iconic Ashes urn. The rivalry is defined by its deep tradition, fierce competitiveness, and near-even historical balance, with Australia holding a slight overall advantage.

🏴🇮🇪
ENGLAND VS IRELAND
The Neighboring Duel
22
Total Matches
17
England Wins
3
Ireland Wins
2
No Result

The England vs Ireland rivalry blends geographic proximity with a long and complex shared history. While England has historically dominated as one of cricket’s founding powers, Ireland has earned a reputation for producing unexpected and iconic upsets on the biggest stages of international cricket. This contrast between established dominance and underdog resilience defines a rivalry often described as a modern “David vs Goliath” contest.

🇧🇩🇱🇰
BANGLADESH VS SRI LANKA
The Naagin Rivalry
102
Total Matches
75
Sri Lanka Wins
19
Bangladesh Wins
8
No Result / Draws

The Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka rivalry, widely known as the “Naagin Derby,” is one of modern cricket’s most emotionally charged and unpredictable contests. Unlike traditional rivalries rooted in long historical conflicts, this one emerged entirely from on-field battles in the last two decades, fueled by last-ball finishes, psychological tension, and memorable moments that escalated into a unique cricketing narrative.

🇦🇺🇳🇿
AUSTRALIA VS NEW ZEALAND
The Trans-Tasman Battle
142
Total Matches
96
Australia Wins
39
New Zealand Wins
7
No Result

The Australia vs New Zealand rivalry, known as the Trans-Tasman Battle, is one of cricket’s most competitive modern matchups. Separated by the Tasman Sea but closely linked through culture and sporting history, both teams consistently produce high-intensity encounters across all formats. Australia’s depth and dominance are frequently challenged by New Zealand’s discipline, tactical sharpness, and ability to deliver in ICC tournament pressure moments.

TOURNAMENT PREDICTIONS

Who will lift the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 trophy on 21 November 2027? Our editorial team analyses form, squad depth, balance, and tactical profiles of the leading contenders across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

TOURNAMENT FAVOURITES

01
🇮🇳 India
India enters the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 as one of the strongest contenders. Powered by the IPL-driven pipeline, the squad combines elite depth, explosive batting, and high-quality spin options. The strategy focuses on maintaining experienced leaders like Virat Kohli at peak performance while integrating younger talent to finally end the ODI World Cup title drought.
3.50
02
🇦🇺 Australia
Australia enters the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 as the defending champions. Known for their adaptability and aggressive mentality, they traditionally thrive in South African conditions with fast, bouncy pitches. Their depth in both batting and pace bowling makes them one of the most consistent tournament teams in world cricket.
4.50
03
🇿🇦 South Africa
Home advantage gives the Proteas a major boost in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. Familiar conditions, strong pace-bowling depth, and improved batting consistency in domestic and franchise cricket have positioned them as serious contenders. Analysts believe this could be their best chance in decades to finally win a World Cup on home soil.
7.00

DARK HORSES

🇦🇫
Afghanistan
The spin-heavy powerhouse has evolved from underdog status into one of the most dangerous teams in world cricket. With world-class spin attack and growing consistency in ICC tournaments, Afghanistan has already produced major upsets against top nations and enters the 2027 World Cup as a feared dark horse capable of shocking elite sides.
Dark Horse
🇿🇼
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe enters the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 as co-host with renewed energy and a rapidly improving squad. Backed by home conditions and passionate support, the team aims to turn its venues into true fortresses and deliver upset performances against higher-ranked opponents throughout the tournament.
Dark Horse
🇱🇰
Sri Lanka
The 1996 world champions are undergoing a steady resurgence after years of transition. With a new generation emerging alongside experienced core players, Sri Lanka is rebuilding consistency and confidence. Their recent improvements in white-ball cricket suggest they are capable of upsetting stronger teams in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.
Dark Horse

ICC MEN’S CRICKET WORLD CUP 2027 FAQ

Everything you need to know about the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 — including dates, format, hosts, teams, and tournament structure across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

When does the 2027 Cricket World Cup start and end?
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The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 will take place from 4 October to 21 November 2027, spanning nearly seven weeks of international cricket across three host nations.
What is the ICC Cricket World Cup?
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The Cricket World Cup is a quadrennial One Day International (ODI) tournament organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC). First held in 1975, it brings together the world’s top national teams to compete for the sport’s most prestigious global title.
Which countries are hosting the 2027 edition?
+
South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia will co-host the 2027 tournament. This marks the second time South Africa and Zimbabwe have jointly hosted a World Cup (after 2003), while Namibia will host matches for the first time in its history.
How many teams will participate?
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A total of 14 national teams will compete in the 2027 Cricket World Cup, representing the member associations of the ICC.
What is the tournament format?
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The tournament begins with two groups of seven teams. The top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six stage. From there, the top four teams progress to the semi-finals, followed by the final. Teams also carry forward selected points from the group stage into the Super Six phase (Points Carry Forward system).
How many matches will be played?
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A total of 54 matches will be played throughout the tournament, featuring group stage games, Super Six fixtures, semi-finals, and the final.
What is the Super Six stage?
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The Super Six is a second league phase where the six qualified teams play against teams from the opposite group. Results against teams from the same initial group are carried forward, influencing the standings before the knockout stage.
Which team are the defending champions?
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Australia are the defending champions, having won the 2023 Cricket World Cup by defeating India in the final.
Who is organizing the tournament?
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The tournament is organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC). A dedicated organizing committee, chaired by Trevor Manuel, was established in 2025 to oversee preparations across the three host nations.
Why is Namibia hosting matches for the first time?
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Namibia was selected as a co-host to expand cricket infrastructure and development in the region. It will host World Cup matches for the first time, marking a historic milestone for the country.