ICC to expand World Cricket League

The ICC has confirmed that the World Cricket League will be expanded from five to eight divisions after the 2009 World Cup Qualifiers.

The WCL was launched in 2007 with the dual aims of providing more meaningful cricket to more Associates and Affiliates, and also giving a direct path which enabled any country to achieve the ultimate goal of playing in the World Cup.

The addition of three more divisions has been made possible by the substantial increase in funding available once the ICC's new media deal kicks in next year. It is believed that Division Six and Seven will run in 2009 and Division Eight in 2010.

The extra leagues, which should be approved by the ICC when it meets for its annual meeting in Dubai at the end of the month, will be drawn up based on results in regional competitions.