West Indies are once again staring at having to play the ODI World Cup Qualifiers after almost failing to secure a direct place in the 2027 tournament.
The two-time world champions have now found themselves in the qualification battle for a third successive World Cup cycle, which is a grim reflection of the decline in their fortunes in 50-over cricket.
The latest setback comes after Afghanistan strengthened their position in the race by beating Ireland in the second ODI of the ongoing five-match series. West Indies were already outside the top-eight in the rankings, and Afghanistan’s victory have effectively closed their chances of earning a direct berth.
For the 2027 World Cup, co-hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe have automatic berths, while the remaining eight direct places are determined by the ICC rankings. The rankings cut-off is September 30.
West Indies had slipped to 10th in the rankings after their ODI series against New Zealand, while Bangladesh were ninth and Afghanistan eighth.
The Afghanistan-Ireland series was crucial to West Indies’ hopes. Ireland needed a near-perfect run, including a 5-0 series sweep, to remain in contention. The opening ODI was washed out, ending Ireland’s hopes and Afghanistan then rode Rashid Khan’s 6/34 to win the second match.
West Indies will play three ODIs against India, beginning on September 27.