Governance decisions dominated the International Cricket Council‘s Annual Conference in Edinburgh, with the governing body opting to retain the suspensions of USA Cricket and Cricket Canada while expanding its global membership through the admission of Mauritius as a new Associate Member. The outcomes, according to a report by Cricbuzz journalist Vijay Tagore, underline that administrative reform remains a priority for several member boards despite the conference concluding without major changes to the international playing structure.
Mauritius Cricket Federation‘s admission takes the ICC’s membership to 111 countries, comprising 12 Full Members and 99 Associate Members. France Cricket was also placed on notice as part of the ICC’s continued oversight of governance standards across its membership.
USA Cricket’s suspension continues
The ICC Board again reviewed the position of USA Cricket but stopped short of restoring the organisation’s membership.
Board members acknowledged the importance of resolving the situation with cricket due to return to the Olympic programme at Los Angeles 2028. Even so, the suspension imposed in September 2025 will remain in place until further decisions are taken.
Cricket Canada remains under review
No change was made to Cricket Canada’s status either, with the organisation continuing to serve its suspension after discussions during the conference.
The governing body is understood to be addressing internal governance matters before its case can be reconsidered, although the specific issues have not been disclosed. The report also notes ongoing discussion around the possibility of Major League Cricket expanding into Canada through a new franchise, but there is no indication that such developments have influenced the ICC’s current position.
Wider discussions at the annual conference
Beyond membership and governance matters, the conference also considered broader issues affecting the future direction of international cricket.
No decision was taken to expand the World Test Championship by adding Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe, while speculation surrounding a reduction of One-Day Internationals from 50 overs to 40 overs also did not result in any formal outcome.
Delegates instead received presentations outlining the ICC’s strategy for its next commercial and governance cycle, while official media rights partner JioStar also presented during the conference.
While Mauritius leaves the Edinburgh meeting as the ICC’s newest Associate Member, governance questions surrounding USA Cricket and Cricket Canada remain unresolved, with both organisations continuing to await future decisions on their standing within the global governing body.
