India–Australia to open Round 2 of 2027 World Cup in Cape Town

India and Australia, the finalists of the 2023 edition, will launch Round 2 of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 on October 7 in Cape Town. India, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and one qualifying team, will face their arch‑rivals Pakistan on October 10 in Johannesburg. Group B features hosts South Africa, England, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the second qualifier. England’s clash with Bangladesh in Windhoek on October 8 marks the first Group B fixture, while South Africa begin their campaign against New Zealand in Cape Town on October 10.

The round‑of‑six format brings together heavyweight contenders and emerging sides in a tightly packed schedule across southern Africa. With India and Australia renewing their rivalry and Pakistan awaiting a marquee showdown, Round 2 promises high‑stakes cricket early in the tournament. Co‑hosts South Africa will also look to build momentum quickly as they open at home.