Explained: Why is Mahatma Gandhi linked to ICC World Cup 2027?

The 2027 ODI World Cup could have a unique connection with Mahatma Gandhi. The ICC is reportedly considering moving the tournament's opening date from October 8 to October 2, which is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti.

The 2027 World Cup will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. If the tournament starts on October 2, it could also become the longest ODI World Cup, with the competition potentially running for around 50 days.

The ICC is currently working on the tournament schedule and start dates. October 2, 2027, is Gandhi Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who played a major role in India's independence movement through non-violent resistance. This possible opening date is why Gandhi has been linked to the 2027 ODI World Cup.

ICC plans to start World Cup 2027 on October 2 — Gandhi's birth anniversary

According to Cricbuzz, the ICC had earlier planned to start the 2027 ODI World Cup on October 8, with warm-up matches scheduled during the first week of the month. However, the plan has reportedly changed, with October 2 now being considered as the tournament's opening date.

The 14-team World Cup is expected to run for around 50 days, with the final reportedly scheduled for November 21. The tournament will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Mahatma Gandhi also has a strong connection with South Africa, where he spent 21 years of his life. If the ICC starts the tournament on October 2, which marks Gandhi's birth anniversary, it could serve as a special tribute to his legacy and message of non-violence.

The South Africa connection: Why Gandhi's 21 years there matter

If the proposed schedule is approved, the 2027 ODI World Cup could begin on October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Although the Indian freedom fighter was born in 1869 and had no direct connection with cricket.

However, Gandhi shared a deep historical connection with South Africa, one of the three host countries for the 2027 World Cup. He spent 21 years there, and his experiences during that period played an important role in shaping his philosophy.

Gandhi developed the principles of Satyagraha during his time in South Africa. His strong connection with the country is reportedly one of the reasons behind the ICC's consideration of starting the World Cup on his birth anniversary.

How fans are reacting to the World Cup's Gandhi Jayanti connection

The reported plan to start the 2027 ODI World Cup on October 2 has caught the attention of cricket fans. October 2 is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, marking the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The possible connection between the World Cup and Gandhi has created interest among fans. Gandhi spent 21 years in South Africa, one of the three host countries for the 2027 World Cup. Here is how fans reacted on Twitter:

The ICC has also finalised 12 venues for the 2027 World Cup. The matches will be played across eight cities in South Africa, three venues in Zimbabwe and Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. The confirmed venues include Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, Centurion in Tshwane, Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town, Kingsmead Cricket Ground in Durban, St. George's Park in Gqeberha, Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein, Boland Park in Paarl, Buffalo Park in KuGompo City, Harare Sports Club, Queens Sports Club, Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium and the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek.

The ICC has also changed the format of the 50-over World Cup. The lower-ranked teams will compete in a Super Series, with the winner earning a place in the main tournament. The winner will join the other 11 qualified teams to complete the 14-team field for the 2027 ODI World Cup.