T20 World Cup 2026 is fast approaching, and India is gearing up to host the global showpiece for the first time in a decade. As per reports, the ICC spectacle-co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka-is set to run from February 7 to March 8, marking the first-ever edition of the tournament to be staged during the Asian winter.
Defending champions India are expected to begin their title defence against the USA on February 8 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. According to RevSportz, the provisional draw places India in Group with the USA, Pakistan, Namibia and the Netherlands.
India's league-stage fixtures are reportedly lined up as follows:
- February 8 vs USA - Ahmedabad
- February 12 vs Namibia - Delhi
- February 15 vs Pakistan - Colombo
- February 18 vs Netherlands - Mumbai
The India-Pakistan encounter is once again shaping up to be the marquee contest of the tournament.
Despite India's dominant run over the arch-rivals in T20 World Cups, their meetings continue to be massive global events-driven not only by sporting intensity but also by the political undertones that hover around the rivalry. The February 15 clash in Colombo is expected to draw record-breaking viewership.
On the knockout front, the report suggests that Mumbai will host one semi-final on March 5, while the final will be staged at the Narendra Modi Stadium on March 8. The allocation of venues could also change depending on semi-final qualification scenarios. If Pakistan enter the last four, their semi-final will be scheduled in Colombo. Sri Lanka, too, will play at home should they reach the same stage.
A particularly interesting situation could arise if Pakistan qualify for the final, raising logistical considerations for the organisers.
With anticipation building and venues being prepared for peak winter cricket, fans are now awaiting the official release of the complete schedule. Once confirmed, the 2026 edition promises to be one of the most unique and widely watched T20 World Cups ever.
