The ICC’s annual Asia-Pacific conference officially kicked off in Singapore on July 17, setting the stage for several crucial decisions that could reshape the governance and global direction of cricket. Delegates from Full and Associate Member nations assembled for a week of strategic sessions covering governance reforms, the possible suspension of USA Cricket, Associate Member elections, and proposals to revamp existing formats and rules.
One of the most closely watched issues is the status of USA Cricket, which is facing potential suspension after failing to meet key governance and compliance benchmarks. The board was given a 12-month window to address internal disputes and administrative failures, and with that deadline now expired, the ICC is under pressure to take a decisive stand. A suspension could remove the USA from ICC-sanctioned events and halt funding, a major setback for a nation recently co-hosting the T20 World Cup and bidding to be a central figure in cricket’s Olympic future.
Alongside the USA matter, elections for Associate Member representatives to the Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) are taking place during the conference. With 11 candidates vying for three available seats, this election will determine which voices represent the growing pool of Associate nations. Incumbents from Canada, Denmark, and Botswana are seeking re-election, though several new contenders from Asia and the Pacific are pushing for change and stronger grassroots development agendas.
Also high on the agenda are major rule proposals aimed at modernizing cricket’s formats and enhancing the pace of play. One of the headline suggestions is a change to the One Day International (ODI) format: switching from the current two-ball system to a single ball from the 25th over onward to encourage reverse swing and bring bowlers back into the contest. Additionally, the ICC is exploring the introduction of an over-clock in Test matches—limiting over transitions to 60 seconds—to ensure 90 overs are bowled daily.
Another key item under review is the possible switch of the Men’s Under-19 World Cup from a 50-over to a T20 format, mirroring the women’s youth competition. Proponents argue that aligning with the T20 format would engage younger audiences and better reflect modern viewing preferences.
Newly elected ICC Chair Jay Shah opened the conference by emphasizing the need for “inclusive growth, competitive balance, and global responsibility.” He also committed to supporting displaced Afghan women cricketers and elevating women’s cricket structures in Associate nations, reflecting a broader push toward equity and diversity.
Meanwhile, the World Cricket Association’s (WCA) proposed governance reforms—including calls for a more equitable financial model and broader decision-making roles—remain contentious. Some Full Member boards have resisted adoption, particularly in light of the WCA’s recent transformation from FICA, the players’ association.
With such a packed and sensitive agenda, the Singapore conference could become one of the most influential in the ICC’s recent history. The decisions made here are expected to significantly affect cricket’s global landscape—especially in emerging markets, player development structures, and administrative transparency—well beyond 2025.