Cricket Expert Panel
Senior Cricket Analysts with 15+ years covering ICC tournaments
Last Updated: December 16, 2025 | 12 min read
Table of Contents
Tournament Overview
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 marks a historic moment in cricket as the tournament returns to the Indian subcontinent. Scheduled to take place across India and Sri Lanka, this ninth edition promises to deliver unprecedented excitement with 20 teams competing for cricket's most coveted T20 trophy.
This expanded format represents the International Cricket Council's vision to globalize the sport, featuring more teams than ever before. The tournament will span multiple weeks, showcasing world-class cricket across some of the most iconic venues in cricket history.
Complete Schedule & Fixtures
The tournament is structured into multiple stages, beginning with the group phase where teams will battle for supremacy and advancement to the knockout rounds. Here's what to expect:
Group Stage
Teams divided into four groups of five, with top two from each group advancing to Super 8s
Super 8 Stage
Eight qualified teams compete in two groups, with top two advancing to semifinals
Knockout Phase
Two semifinals followed by the grand final at a premier venue
Host Venues in India & Sri Lanka
The tournament will be hosted across legendary cricket stadiums known for their electric atmospheres and rich cricketing heritage.
🏏 Indian Venues
- ▸Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad (Capacity: 132,000)
- ▸Eden Gardens, Kolkata (Capacity: 68,000)
- ▸Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai (Capacity: 33,000)
- ▸M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- ▸M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
🏏 Sri Lankan Venues
- ▸R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo (Capacity: 35,000)
- ▸Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
- ▸Galle International Stadium
Participating Teams Analysis
With 20 teams competing, the 2026 edition features the largest field in T20 World Cup history. Teams have qualified through regional tournaments and the ICC T20 rankings.
Top Contenders
🇮🇳 India (Host Nation)
Strong batting lineup, home advantage, passionate crowd support
🏴 England (Defending Champions)
Experienced squad, explosive batting, tactical excellence
🇦🇺 Australia
Tournament pedigree, balanced team, aggressive approach
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Unpredictable brilliance, strong bowling, match-winners
Tournament Favorites & AI Predictions
Based on advanced statistical analysis, historical performance data, and current team form, our AI-powered prediction model evaluates the top contenders:
T20 World Cup History
Since its inception in 2007, the ICC T20 World Cup has grown into one of cricket's most celebrated tournaments. The 2026 edition continues this legacy of thrilling cricket and memorable moments.
| Year | Host | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Bangladesh | 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka |
| 2016 | India | 🏴 West Indies |
| 2021 | UAE & Oman | 🇦🇺 Australia |
| 2022 | Australia | 🏴 England |
| 2024 | West Indies & USA | 🇮🇳 India |
How to Watch & Stream
Cricket fans worldwide will have multiple options to catch all the action from the T20 World Cup 2026:
📺 TV Broadcasting
- • Star Sports Network (India)
- • Sky Sports (UK)
- • Fox Sports (Australia)
- • Willow TV (USA)
💻 Digital Streaming
- • Disney+ Hotstar
- • ICC.tv Official Platform
- • Regional streaming services
- • Mobile apps for on-the-go viewing
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the ICC T20 World Cup 2026?
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in February-March 2026, with exact dates to be announced by the ICC. The tournament will span approximately 4-5 weeks across India and Sri Lanka.
How many teams will participate in T20 World Cup 2026?
A total of 20 teams will participate in the 2026 edition, making it the largest T20 World Cup ever. Teams have qualified through regional tournaments and ICC T20I rankings.
Which countries are hosting the tournament?
India and Sri Lanka will co-host the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Matches will be played across multiple iconic venues in both countries, including the Narendra Modi Stadium, Eden Gardens, R. Premadasa Stadium, and more.
Where can I buy tickets for T20 World Cup 2026?
Official tickets will be available through the ICC official website and authorized ticketing partners. Early bird bookings typically open several months before the tournament begins. Check ICC.cricket for official announcements.
Who are the favorites to win T20 World Cup 2026?
Based on current rankings and form, India (host nation), England (defending champions), Australia, and Pakistan are considered top favorites. However, T20 cricket is known for its unpredictability, and several teams have the potential to win.
What is the tournament format for 2026?
The tournament features a group stage (4 groups of 5 teams), followed by a Super 8 stage, semifinals, and the final. The top 2 teams from each group advance to the Super 8s, where they're divided into 2 groups of 4 teams each.
How can I watch T20 World Cup 2026 online?
The tournament will be available on multiple streaming platforms including Disney+ Hotstar (India), ICC.tv, and regional streaming services based on your location. Check with your local broadcasters for specific streaming options.
Has India ever won the T20 World Cup?
Yes, India has won the T20 World Cup twice - first in 2007 (the inaugural edition) under MS Dhoni's captaincy,