World Cup to be expanded to 16 teams

Sixteen teams for ICC Cricket World Cup 2007, final format to be agreed The ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 will feature 16 teams but the final format for the event is still to be agreed after the ICC Board discussed the issue in Barbados yesterday.

While the Board agreed to expand the tournament to 16 teams divided into four groups of four, there was considerable discussion about the most effective format for the tournament beyond the group stage and the meeting considered the request from its commercial partner, Global Cricket Corporation to play more games than the originally proposed 42 matches. Further investigations and consultations will now take place before the final tournament structure is agreed.

CC Chief Executive, Malcolm Speed, said that there were a number of factors that needed further investigation before a final decision could be made. "The Board decided that expanding the tournament to 16 teams was an appropriate step but wanted to further investigate the best structure for the tournament beyond the group stage before making a final decision on format," said Mr Speed.

"There are several alternatives that could be used including a `Super 8' structure of two groups of four, a full round robin format or a modified round robin format. "Given the complex logistical associated with holding this event in the West Indies, there needs to be a further analysis of the impact of these formats on issues such as:

· travel and accommodation arrangements for teams, media and spectators; · the number of venues required: and · the demands on venues for cricketing facilities such as the number pitches. "Over the coming months ICC Management will investigate these issues further and consult with stakeholders including the West Indies Cricket Board and our commercial partner, Global Cricket Corporation before this issue is considered by the Board again at its March meeting."