DUBAI — Cricket’s fiercest rivalry is set to reignite on the sport’s biggest stage, with Pakistan and India expected to be drawn into the same group for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027, according to media reports.
The marquee fixture, one of the most-watched sporting events on the global calendar, is anticipated to fall in the group stage of the tournament, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Commercial Pressure Shapes the Draw
Reports indicate that commercial partners have made the Pakistan-India encounter a requirement for the group stage, underscoring the fixture’s enormous broadcasting value. The rivalry consistently draws record television audiences and remains the centrepiece of every ICC event in which the two sides meet.
Pakistan’s historical record against India in World Cup matches has been unfavourable, yet the fixture’s appeal has shown little sign of fading. Broadcasters and sponsors regard it as indispensable to the tournament’s commercial success.
Expanded Format for 2027
The 2027 edition will feature 14 teams, with 12 competing in the main round split into two groups of six. The top sides from each group will advance to the Super 7 stage.
- 14 teams will take part in the tournament
- 12 teams will contest the main round in two groups of six
- The top teams will progress to the Super 7 stage
- Matches will be played across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia
- The tournament is scheduled for October and November 2027
- Twelve host venues have already been announced by the ICC
Schedule Announcement Imminent
The official schedule is set to be unveiled in Cape Town, with the announcement scheduled for 9pm Pakistan Standard Time, according to the report.
The one-year countdown to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 begins on October 1, marking the start of the final stretch of preparations for the expanded global showpiece.
