This World Cup, in particular, has reinforced the notion that any team, no matter how small or inexperienced, can compete with the greatest in the world and give them a fight for their money.
Follow Us
The ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 is a remarkable competition that has featured highs and lows as well as meticulously choreographed twists and drama. The associate nations’ fearless and charismatic performances, though, have unquestionably been the most cheering factor. The teams that have been neglected for too long in cricket have seen plenty of fairytale moments. The Netherlands ended South Africa’s campaign and made it possible for Pakistan to advance to the semifinals, while Namibia and Scotland humiliated Sri Lanka and the West Indies in the qualifying rounds. The Dutch also became the only associate side to book a direct place in the 2024 edition. The USA is part of the competition on account of being the host.
This World Cup, in particular, has reinforced the notion that any team, no matter how small or inexperienced, can compete with the greatest in the world and give them a fight for their money. Fans of the sport will remember Zimbabwe defending a low total against Pakistan, and Ireland upsetting their strong neighbour England. As cricket makes a big drive to become a worldwide sport, especially with the upcoming T20 World Cup increasing to 20 teams, the International Cricket Council (ICC) should stop treating associate nations as an afterthought. The FTP unfortunately does not present a pretty picture as the likes of the Netherlands and Scotland don’t have enough fixtures.
Read More: T20 World Cup 2022: 3 Upsets in the Super 12 stage of the tournament
Even as associate nations continue to upset full member nations in world events, gaining ICC Full Membership has become increasingly difficult. Associate states must win at least one World Cup game or World Cup Qualifying event and four bilateral matches against full members within an eight-year period, even if all odds are stacked against them. What complicates matters even further is that associate nations find it difficult to organise bilateral events with full members. The established teams are more likely to play each other because that is where the majority of the TV revenue and sponsorship money is concentrated. That is why the likes of Afghanistan and Ireland who got full membership recently don’t get to play much against the big sides.
Rishabh Pant's explosive last-over blitz ignites IPL 2024 amid T20 World Cup comeback talks
