The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the tenth edition of cricket’s premier short-format tournament, is poised to captivate global audiences as it begins on 7 February 2026 and runs until 8 March 2026 across India and Sri Lanka. Spanning 55 high-octane matches, the event brings together the world’s best in Twenty20 cricket, blending established powerhouses with rising contenders in a showcase of athleticism, strategy and fierce competition. 

Format and structure

The tournament features 20 teams divided into four groups of five, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the Super Eight stage. From there, the best sides progress to the semi-finals and ultimately the final — traditionally one of the sport’s most watched events. 

India, as defending champions, headline Group A alongside Pakistan, the United States, Namibia and the Netherlands. Other groups bring together cricket heavyweights like Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa and emerging sides such as Italy and Nepal. 

Hosts and venues

Co-hosts India and Sri Lanka have confirmed eight world-class venues where the action will unfold:

• India: Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad), Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai), Eden Gardens (Kolkata), M.A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai), Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi)

• Sri Lanka: R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo), Sinhalese Sports Club (Colombo), Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy) 

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad — the world’s largest cricket venue — is slated to host the final on 8 March 2026, while semi-finals are scheduled in Mumbai and Kolkata, with Colombo as a contingency venue if Pakistan features in the last four. 

Blockbuster matches and rivalries

The tournament opens with multiple marquee fixtures, including Pakistan vs Netherlands in Colombo, West Indies vs Bangladesh in Kolkata and India vs USA in Mumbai on 7 February. As the event unfolds, eyes will be on one of cricket’s most eagerly anticipated clashes — India vs Pakistan — set for 15 February in Colombo, a match with massive global appeal that could shape Group A’s destiny. 

Warm-up momentum and form

In the build-up to the World Cup, warm-up matches have offered glimpses into teams’ preparations. India posted a strong win over South Africa, while Afghanistan and Namibia also claimed impressive victories. These fixtures help captains and selectors finalise combinations and strategies ahead of the main tournament. 

New faces and expanding global reach

The 2026 edition highlights the continuing expansion of international cricket. Italy, making its first appearance at the T20 World Cup, represents the growth of the game in non-traditional cricket nations, bringing fresh interest and narratives to the global stage. 

A global cricket festival

Beyond the results and rivalries, the T20 World Cup has become a cultural phenomenon connecting fans across continents. With co-hosts that bring passionate crowds, historic stadiums and vibrant atmospheres, this edition promises unforgettable moments, dramatic finishes and a celebration of the shortest format’s explosive appeal.

Sources: ICC, Cricbuzz