T20 World Cup 2026 to start on this date as renowned IPL venues to host semifinal and final
The T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka is expected to start on this date as the semifinal and final are anticipated to be hosted by the renowned venues of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The renowned Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai has been shortlisted to host one of the semi-finals, while Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium will host the opening clash and final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which is likely to start from February 07 and end just more than a month later on March 8. Ahmedabad had hosted both the marquee games of the 2023 World Cup as well.
The reports of the Indian Express have reckoned that if there were a semi-final clash between India and Pakistan, then the encounter would take place in Colombo, while the second semi-final fixture will be held at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Sri Lanka, being the co-host of the tournament, will feature in seven venues between the two countries.
See Also: South Africa A registers massive record against India A during 2nd unofficial Test in Bengaluru
While Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad are likely to host the Indian leg of the tournament, Sri Lanka will use the three venues. It has been understood that apart from the Premadasa Stadium and Kandy stadium in Pallekele, one of Dambulla and Hambantota will be the host venues.
Wankhede Stadium to host T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal; Narendra Modi Stadium set for final
There is no clarity on the warm-up games. However, there are chances that Bengaluru might get a few warm-up fixtures. The Indian board is yet to decide whether they would host the warm-up games in the Centre of Excellence (CoE) or the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The Blue Brigade is anticipated to play in major cities- Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, and Kolkata.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to announce the schedule in the upcoming few days. The meeting would be among the top BCCI officials. While the number of venues will be fewer for the 2023 World Cup, each venue is expected to get at least six games each.
The BCCI has made it clear that the Blue Brigade is going to face Pakistan only in Sri Lanka, according to the pre-signed agreement. Both the BCCI and the PCB agreed to play each other in the ICC events only in a neutral venue. The BCCI, as reported, has submitted the schedule to the ICC.
Tags:
