No India travel: Pakistan’s 2026 T20 World Cup matches shifted to Sri Lanka

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed a joint hosting arrangement between India and Sri Lanka for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, set to take place from February 7 to March 8, 2026. The tournament will feature 20 teams, following the same format as the 2024 edition, with matches divided between both host nations.

India’s Venues Finalised

According to early plans, five major Indian cities have been shortlisted to host matches:

• Ahmedabad
• Delhi
• Kolkata
• Chennai
• Mumbai

The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the world’s largest cricket venue, is expected to host the final on March 8, provided Pakistan do not qualify for it.

Pakistan to Play Entirely in Sri Lanka

In a significant development, all of Pakistan’s matches will be played in Sri Lanka, in accordance with a mutual understanding between the BCCI and PCB to play at neutral venues during ICC events hosted by the other nation.

The Sri Lankan venues shortlisted for Pakistan’s matches include:

• Colombo
• Kandy
• third venue yet to be finalised

Should Pakistan advance to the final, the title clash will also be shifted to Colombo, instead of Ahmedabad, as per the ICC’s arrangement.

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Tournament Format & Qualified Teams

The 2026 edition will follow a 20-team structure with:

• 4 groups of 5 teams each
• Top 2 from each group qualifying for the Super 8s
• Followed by semi-finals and the final

Qualified Teams:

• Hosts: India, Sri Lanka
• Top 7 from 2024 T20 World Cup: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, South Africa, USA, West Indies
• Ranking-based qualifiers: New Zealand, Pakistan, Ireland

Regional qualifiers:

• Americas: Canada
• Europe: Italy (first-time participants), Netherlands
  • Africa: Namibia, Zimbabwe
  • Asia-EAP: Nepal, Oman, UAE

Defending Champions

India will enter the 2026 T20 World Cup as defending champions, having defeated South Africa in the 2024 final in Barbados. The ICC is expected to release the official schedule next week, following final venue inspections and discussions with both cricket boards.