T20 World Cup 2026: India-Sri Lanka to Host Expanded 20-Team Tournament
The T20 World Cup 2026 will begin on February 7 and conclude with the final at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on March 8. For the first time, the tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Key Details
- Dates: February 7 to March 8, 2026.
- Hosts: India and Sri Lanka (first joint hosting).
- Teams: 20 (expanded from 16).
- Final Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
Tournament Format and Groups
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has divided the 20 teams into four groups of five. The top two from each group will progress to the Super 8 stage.
Full Group List
- Group A: India (host), Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Qualifier 1
- Group B: Australia, England, South Africa, West Indies, Qualifier 2
- Group C: Afghanistan, Sri Lanka (host), Ireland, Papua New Guinea, Qualifier 3
- Group D: USA, Canada, Nepal, Oman, Qualifier 4
The four remaining qualifiers will be decided through regional pathways.
Historic Expansion and Global Push
The 2026 edition marks a significant shift as the first T20 World Cup to feature 20 teams. This expansion from the previous 16-team format is a core part of the ICC’s strategy to globalize cricket and create more opportunities for associate nations.
Title Contenders in Focus
India, the inaugural champion from 2007, will aim to win the title on home soil. Meanwhile, defending champions Australia will seek to retain their crown in what promises to be a highly competitive tournament across iconic venues in India and Sri Lanka.
