LONDON, Nov 1: The 2007 World Cup in the West Indies looks set to be expanded to take in 16 teams, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced after a meeting in Barbados.

“While the Board agreed to expand the tournament to 16 teams divided into four groups of four, there was considerable discussion about the most effective format for the tournament beyond the group stage,” said a statement.

“The meeting considered the request from its commercial partner, Global Cricket Corporation to play more games than the originally proposed 42 matches.

“Further investigations and consultations will now take place before the final tournament structure is agreed.”

ICC chief executive, Malcolm Speed, said that there were a number of factors that needed further investigation before a final decision could be made.

This year’s tournament in South Africa involved 14 teams and, at seven weeks, was widely criticised for being too long.

“There are several alternatives that could be used including a ‘Super 8’ structure of two groups of four, a full round robin format or a modified round robin format,” said Speed.—AFP