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Explained: Why Namibia Are Denied An Automatic Qualification For 2027 WC Despite Being The Hosts

Abhinav Tyagi

Namibia Cricket Team - (Source : @Johns/X.Com)Namibia Cricket Team - (Source : @Johns/X.Com)

The buzz for the 2027 ODI World Cup is heating up as the prestigious fifty-over event is less than two years away. Teams have already begun preparing for the marquee event, which will be hosted by three nations - South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. 

The ICC has made several changes to the upcoming World Cup as the 2027 edition will feature 14 teams, four more than the ones that featured in the 2023 World Cup in India. The 14 teams will be divided into two groups of seven teams. Top three teams from both groups will advance to the super six stage. 

New Format, Teams Expansion For 2027 ODI WC

Talking about the 14 teams, eight teams will qualify based on ICC Rankings, four from qualifiers and two being the hosts - South Africa and Zimbabwe, who have already qualified. 

However, it has come to the fans' notice that Namibia, despite being the hosts, have not qualified for the event and will have to play the qualifiers to make a way to the World Cup 2027. Meanwhile, this article will look at why Namibia have not earned an automatic qualification. 

Why Namibia Have Not Earned Direct Qualification For 2027 ODI World Cup?

Notably, both South Africa and Zimbabwe are ICC's full members, whereas Namibia is just an associate member and not a Test-playing nation. As a result, Namibia are not guaranteed a direct spot and will have to play the qualifiers. 

Further, talking about Namibia, they are placed in the 2024–2026 ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, which ends in December 2026. Further, Namibia have three venues, which will host teams during the 2027 ODI World Cup.