Harry Brook's side dodge cricket powerhouses in the group stage, setting up a historic return fixture in Zimbabwe.
England have successfully avoided defending champions Australia and world number one-ranked side India in the group-stage draw for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, according to information published by BBC.
Led by Harry Brook, the 2019 champions find themselves grouped alongside co-hosts South Africa, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and a yet-to-be-decided qualifier for the tournament.
The group stage will shape the path to the Super 7 stage and the final, which is scheduled to take place on 21 November in Johannesburg, following group fixtures hosted across multiple southern African nations.
England 2027 Cricket World Cup Schedule
England will begin their 50-over campaign against Bangladesh on 8 October, followed by a match against Sri Lanka on 13 October in Windhoek, Namibia.
Harry Brook's men will then face co-hosts South Africa in Gqeberha on 16 October before traveling north to Harare to face a qualifier on 20 October.
The group stage concludes for England when they return to Gqeberha to face New Zealand on 23 October, aiming to secure a top finish to progress further in the tournament.
Historic Return Fixture in Zimbabwe
The upcoming visit to Zimbabwe carries profound historical significance, as the England men's team has not played a match in the country since 2004.
Political unrest under former president Robert Mugabe caused severe disruptions, leading to England boycotting their fixture in Harare during the 2003 World Cup, which ultimately derailed their campaign.
Relations have steadily improved in recent years, with cricket boards discussing a potential full England tour of the country in the upcoming international cricket cycle between 2027 and 2031.
Tough Groups and Tournament Format
While England secured a favorable draw, arch-rivals India and Pakistan were once again placed in the same group alongside Australia, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, and a qualifier.
The tournament group stage opens on 7 October in Cape Town with a high-profile repeat of the 2023 final between India and Australia.
The top three teams, alongside the best fourth-placed finisher from each group, will advance to the Super 7 stage, paving the way for the semi-finals on 17 and 18 November.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is in England's group for the 2027 Cricket World Cup?
England are drawn in a group alongside co-hosts South Africa, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and a qualifier, successfully avoiding Australia and India.
When does England play their first match at the 2027 World Cup?
England begin their 50-over World Cup campaign against Bangladesh on 8 October 2027.
Why is England playing a match in Zimbabwe significant?
It marks England's first match in Zimbabwe since 2004, following a long absence caused by political unrest and a controversial boycott during the 2003 tournament.
Where is the 2027 Cricket World Cup final taking place?
The tournament final will be held on 21 November in Johannesburg, South Africa.
