Goa, Aug. 11 -- Two-time World Champions West Indies have failed to secure direct qualification for the 2027 ICC Men's ODI World Cup. The Caribbean side's fate was sealed after Afghanistan recorded a crucial victory over Ireland in Belfast, locking in their position within the top tier of the ICC ODI Rankings ahead of the September 30, 2026 cut-off date.

Under ICC rules, the host nations-South Africa and Zimbabwe-automatically qualify for the 14-team marquee tournament, while the top eight remaining ranked nations receive direct entry. Afghanistan's win confirms their place alongside defending champions Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, England, and Bangladesh.

For the West Indies, who currently occupy 10th place in th...