If CX never flies the Intercontinental, the reason will be because it makes too much sense. The demand for the seats, both higher quality first class and overall numbers, is there on certain routes. The maintenance and logistical support is already in place. The crews are already trained. Four engine performance would help in places like JNB. The PIP -8I has better seat costs than the 77W and similar seat costs to the much larger A380 (but carries more cargo). Oh, and I've heard you could get a great deal on the Intercontinental right now. What's not to love?
Nope, CX will pass and wait until 2021+ for the dream machine which will share many of the current 77W's struggles. Namely poor first class and two engine runway performance. The A350s will never reach the east coast of NAM with a CX payload, although it might be a great airplane for Europe and down under. I guess I just don't see the big picture...