How real is Bangladesh’s fear of missing direct qualification for the 2027 WC?

There was a time when Bangladesh's most consistent format was One-Day Internationals (ODIs). But judging by recent performances, this is now the format where they seem most out of rhythm.

Four consecutive series defeats and 10 losses in their last 11 ODIs have triggered widespread criticism. Following another series loss to Afghanistan, the discussion has intensified: will Mehidy Hasan Miraz and his men qualify directly for the 2027 ODI World Cup, or will they be forced to go through the qualifiers? Here we look for the answer.

How many teams will play in the 2027 World Cup?

The 2027 ODI World Cup, to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, will feature 14 teams. Eight of them -- the hosts and the top-ranked sides -- will qualify directly, while the remaining four will be determined through the qualifying tournament.

Although three countries are hosting, the ICC has decided that Namibia will not get an automatic spot. This means that only South Africa and Zimbabwe will qualify directly as hosts. The other six direct spots will be decided based on the ICC ODI rankings as of March 31, 2027.

Where does Bangladesh stand now?

According to the latest ICC ODI rankings, Bangladesh sit at 10th place with 75 rating points. Just above them are the West Indies with 80 points. Realistically, one of these two teams -- Bangladesh or the West Indies -- are likely to miss out on direct qualification and be forced to play in the qualifiers.

Although Bangladesh are ranked 10th, Zimbabwe, who get direct entry as a host, are actually 11th with 56 points. Since one team below them already have a guaranteed spot, Bangladesh will need to be in the top nine by March 31, 2027, to qualify directly. Otherwise, Miraz and Co will have to go through the qualifiers.

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How many matches left before March 2027?

Despite their current position, Bangladesh still have plenty of opportunities to climb the rankings. Between now and March 31, 2027, they are scheduled to play at least 26 ODIs, or 29 if the postponed series against India takes place. Most of these will be home matches, with only six ODIs abroad during this period.

Their campaign resumes this month with a three-match series against the West Indies, followed by three ODIs against Ireland in November. In 2026, Bangladesh are set to host Pakistan, New Zealand, and Australia for three-match ODI series each, according to the ICC's Future Tours Programme (FTP).

They will also host Zimbabwe for five ODIs, while away tours to Ireland and South Africa include three ODIs each. If the postponed India series is added, the number of remaining matches increases further -- and there's still room to organise a few more before the World Cup if needed.

Why the West Indies series is crucial

Although many matches remain, the upcoming series against the West Indies carries special importance. Since the Caribbean side are just above Bangladesh, a 3–0 home series win for the Tigers would lift them to ninth place. However, losing even one match would keep them stuck at 10th.

How the qualifiers work

The final four World Cup spots will be decided through the qualifiers. The tournament will feature the two teams ranked below the top eight, along with eight associate teams that progress through ICC's global qualification leagues. From this 10-team qualifying event, the top four will book their tickets to the 2027 World Cup.