Ireland left-handed batsman Ed Joyce has made a scathing remark on the ICC's decision to curtail the number of teams to 10 at future World Cups, describing it as 'disappointing' to see dwindling opportunities for teams outside the elite group.
Though the upcoming World Cup will see fourteen teams competing for the coveted title, it would be cut short to 10 at the 2019 World Cup in England.
Reflecting on the ICC's decision, Joyce said that they were very disappointed that it would a 10-team World Cup, adding that it seemed to be the only sport that has a World Cup that is contracting rather than expanding, the BBC reported.
The 2019 World Cup would be made up of top eight teams and remaining two would selected from qualifying event to be held in Bangladesh in 2018.
Joyce further said that this could be their last World Cup as it would be very difficult to get into that top eight and, with the qualifying tournament in Bangladesh, they (Bangladesh) were going to have a home advantage, the report added.
Ireland will open their World Cup against the West Indies on 16 February at Saxon Field.