Week in Review: Legal battles, World Cup expansion, and Olympic opportunity 

Key stories to know for the week ahead.

Weekly cricket news collage highlighting international cricket stories involving the ICC, ECB, Cricket Canada, Rajasthan Royals, LPL, Middlesex Cricket, Rachel Lewis, Ben Stokes and other key cricket figures and organizations.

This week’s top headlines spotlight major governance decisions, global tournament expansion, and significant infrastructure investments shaping cricket’s future. From ownership disputes and ICC reforms to new high-performance centres and Olympic ambitions, the sport’s business landscape continues to evolve rapidly.

Raj Kundra launches fresh legal action in Rajasthan Royals ownership dispute

Raj Kundra has initiated new legal proceedings against Manoj Badale, escalating the long-running ownership battle surrounding Rajasthan Royals and adding another layer of uncertainty to the franchise’s future.

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Middlesex parts ways with CEO Andrew Cornish after misconduct probe

Middlesex has dismissed chief executive Andrew Cornish following a misconduct investigation, marking a significant leadership change as the county prepares for its next chapter.

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ICC considers expanding Men’s T20 World Cup to 24 teams

The ICC is exploring a larger 24-team Men’s T20 World Cup as part of its long-term strategy to accelerate cricket’s global growth and broaden participation.

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ICC reveals host cities and brand for 2027 Men’s Cricket World Cup

The ICC has unveiled the host cities and tournament branding for the 2027 Men’s Cricket World Cup, highlighting the competition’s return to Africa.

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Australia pushes for larger 17-player squads at 2027 World Cup

Cricket Australia is advocating for expanded 17-player squads at the 2027 ODI World Cup, citing workload and injury-management concerns under the tournament’s revised format.

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Cricket West Indies launches major high-performance centre project

Cricket West Indies has announced plans for a new high-performance centre in Antigua, aiming to strengthen player development and elite performance across the region.

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India-Bangladesh tour plans progress as Afghanistan series faces delay

Preparations for India’s September tour of Bangladesh are advancing, while proposed T20Is against Afghanistan could be pushed back due to scheduling challenges.

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Manchester Super Giants and Lancashire unveil new performance hub

Manchester Super Giants and Lancashire have announced a multi-million-pound high-performance centre designed to enhance player development and cricket innovation.

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European T20 Premier League confirms full 2026 inaugural schedule

The European T20 Premier League has released the complete fixture list for its inaugural 2026 season, providing greater clarity for teams, broadcasters, and commercial partners.

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Essex names first female chair in its 150-year history

Essex has appointed its first female chair, marking a landmark governance milestone in the county’s 150-year history.

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Why cricket’s Olympic return could transform India’s global influence

Cricket’s return to the Olympic Games could significantly strengthen India’s strategic position within the IOC while creating major commercial and governance opportunities.

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Cricket Canada wins GT20 arbitration and regains league IP

Cricket Canada has secured a major arbitration victory, receiving nearly $400,000 in damages alongside the return of the GT20 league’s intellectual property.

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Clive Lloyd urges ECB to handle Ben Stokes issue privately

West Indies legend Clive Lloyd believes the ECB should have dealt with the Ben Stokes controversy behind closed doors, while warning of broader challenges facing Test cricket.

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Shaheen Afridi files complaint over LPL selection confusion

Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has lodged a formal complaint after a selection mix-up left him sidelined from the Lanka Premier League.

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Jason Gallian steps down as Essex chair after AGM

Jason Gallian has stepped down as Essex chair following the club’s AGM, ending his tenure during a period of significant governance change.

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