Australia’s cricket coach Andrew McDonald has advocated for expanding squad sizes to 17 players for the 2027 One Day International (ODI) World Cup, which is set to feature an increased number of participating teams. McDonald expressed concern that limiting squads to 15 players could reduce the quality of competition as the tournament progresses, particularly due to injuries and the demanding schedule.

Speaking ahead of the event, McDonald underscored the importance of having a larger pool of players available to navigate the early stages of the competition. He emphasized that the goal is to ensure the tournament’s latter stages feature the top performers rather than those sidelined by physical setbacks. “You want the best players to be available,” he stated, advocating that larger squads would help teams manage the attritional nature of the event and maintain competitive balance.

The 2027 ODI World Cup will represent an expansion from previous editions, with a broader field of teams participating. This increase in matches and intensity has raised concerns among players and coaching staff about managing workload and potential injuries over the course of the tournament.

By proposing a 17-player squad, McDonald aims to provide teams with greater flexibility in selection and injury management, allowing for tactical adjustments and rest periods without compromising on-field performance. This suggestion aligns with broader discussions within cricketing circles about player welfare and the evolving demands of international competition formats.

Cricket’s governing bodies are yet to confirm whether squad sizes will be increased for the 2027 edition, but McDonald’s remarks contribute to ongoing dialogue about how best to balance tournament expansion with player readiness and quality of play.