There is a strong possibility that Pakistan will tour Sri Lanka in January 2026, with discussions currently underway between the two cricket boards. If finalized, the series could see Pakistan play three T20 internationals in Colombo on January 8, 10, and 12. However, sources have indicated that the final schedule will be confirmed only after resolving certain pending matters.

This proposed series could further complicate the issue of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for Pakistani players participating in the Big Bash League (BBL). The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had previously suspended players’ NOCs after the Asia Cup, and with a January series on the cards, several players might be forced to miss part of the Australian league.

The BBL is scheduled from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026, with seven Pakistani players lined up to participate. Babar Azam is set to play for the Sydney Sixers, Mohammad Rizwan and Hassan Khan for Melbourne Renegades, Shaheen Afridi for Brisbane Heat, Hasan Ali for Adelaide Strikers, Haris Rauf for Melbourne Stars, and Shadab Khan for Sydney Thunder. While Babar and Rizwan are currently not in Pakistan’s T20I setup, both could make a return ahead of the T20 World Cup. Shadab, who is recovering from injury, and Shaheen remain key figures in the national side.

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Meanwhile, Pakistan’s immediate focus remains on their upcoming home season. They are set to host Sri Lanka for three ODIs from November 11 to 15, followed by a proposed T20 tri-series from November 17 to 29 involving Afghanistan. However, with tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan escalating, the latter’s participation is now uncertain, and PCB may need to find a replacement team.

The January tour will also serve as crucial preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which Sri Lanka will co-host. For Pakistan, the series could provide an ideal opportunity to acclimatize to local conditions ahead of the mega event.

Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin is set to be provided with private security as he heads to Australia for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season. The Sydney Thunder have expressed concerns about the possibility of Ashwin being mobbed by enthusiastic Indian fans while in the city. To ensure his safety, the franchise is taking extra precautions ahead of his arrival.

Reports indicate that Ashwin will bring his personal crew to document his BBL journey with the Sydney Thunder for his YouTube channel. With a tremendous fan base that includes 5.3 million Instagram followers and 1.75 million YouTube subscribers, Ashwin is likely to attract considerable interest on and off the field. Security requirements have increased due to last year’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where about 5,000 Indian supporters gathered to watch India’s pink-ball practice session at Adelaide Oval, raising considerable safety concerns.

The Sydney Thunder aim to prevent a repeat of such situations during the BBL season. “The prospect of the veteran spinner training and playing in western Sydney has been flagged as a potential safety risk. The open nature of Cricket NSW’s facilities at Sydney Olympic Park means Indian fans could mob Ashwin at training,” the Sydney Morning Herald reported. In response, the Thunder have coordinated with Cricket Australia to ensure proper security measures are in place for an athlete of Ashwin’s popularity. “Ashwin may be given personal security during his time in Australia,” the report added.

Ashwin’s impact on BBL and fan engagement

Ashwin, 39, is expected to participate in three to five matches in January and will also feature in the finals if the Sydney Thunder qualify. His arrival is being hailed as the biggest signing in BBL history, sending a strong signal to fans, members, and sponsors. “It is the biggest signing in the history of the BBL. It is a really clear message to our fans and members and sponsors … that we are winning these moments. All eight clubs wanted this guy,” said Sydney Thunder general manager Copeland on Friday.

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He added, “Ashwin has chosen us, which is a really cool story. Ashwin will be a great advocate for how great our tournament is and the Thunder environment.” With Ashwin’s dual role as a player and content creator, the Thunder hope to leverage his immense popularity to enhance the tournament’s visibility while ensuring a safe and secure experience for the cricketing star in Australia.

Not in one, but former India international Ravichandran Ashwin can feature in two overseas franchise leagues. After completing his stint in the ILT20, Ashwin can link up with Australia's T20 tournament, the Big Bash League (BBL).

According to several of the latest reports, the BBL franchise and the celebrated spinner are all set to feature with Sydney Thunder in BBL 2025. If he is able to play, then that will become a milestone for Big Bash, as Ashwin will be the most decorated Indian cricketer to ever play in the tournament. Because of international commitments and IPL contract clauses, most of the Indian players, especially international stars, are not eligible to take part in overseas T20 leagues. As Ashwin has retired from both international cricket and the Indian Premier League, he is now free to play other franchise tournaments across the world.

First, after his retirement from IPL, it was disclosed that the spinner's name is registered for the ILT20 draft. Ashwin himself revealed that he is willing to take part in the competition.

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Ashwin's inclusion will bolster the franchise's strength in various aspects 

Now, weeks after the development, it wasrecently reported that veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has committed to play for the Sydney Thunder in the upcoming Big Bash League. To secure the deal, it is also reported that Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg has played a significant role. 

Sydney Thunder has already roped in multiple stars for the upcoming season. Lockie Ferguson, Shadab Khan, and Sam Billings are set to play for the team. Ashwin's inclusion will definitely strengthen their spin bowling department and all-rounder's department as well. Chris Green, Tanveer Sangha, and Tom Andrews are among the spinners to play for Sydney Thunder. 

Tamil Nadu veteran Ravichandran Ashwin recently announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) on August 28, bringing an end to his long and successful stint in the tournament.

The experienced off-spinner, however, made it clear that he is not done with cricket altogether. Ashwin expressed his desire to continue playing in different franchise leagues across the world, keeping his passion for the shorter formats alive.

Since his announcement, speculations have been rife linking him with multiple global leagues. Fans and cricket experts are eager to see where the seasoned campaigner, known for his variations and sharp cricketing mind, will showcase his skills next. His wealth of experience makes him a valuable addition to any franchise setup.

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Ravichandran Ashwin can be Part of Big Bash League:

On September 2, Cricbuzz reported that Ravichandran Ashwin is in discussions for a potential role in the 2025-26 Big Bash League, which is set to start on December 14. The report further mentioned that Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg has already spoken with the former India star, exploring the possibility of his participation in the upcoming tournament.

Cricket Australia (CA) CEO said, “ To get someone with Ashwin's credentials to come over here for the BBL will be great at so many levels. He's a champion cricketer who will bring a lot to the Big Bash and to our cricket summer.”

Big Bash League Teams That Must Consider Signing R Ashwin in 2025-26:

With news of 38-year-old Ravichandran Ashwin’s possible participation in the 2025-26 Big Bash League creating buzz, here’s a look at three franchises that could be interested in acquiring the experienced spinner for the upcoming season, given his proven skills and ability to influence games in T20 cricket.

• Melbourne Renegades

Leading the potential suitors are the Melbourne Renegades, who had a tough 2024-25 season, ending sixth in the standings. Their home venue, Docklands Stadium, favors spin bowling and isn’t typically high-scoring, making Ashwin’s addition a strategic boost for the team in controlling games and strengthening their bowling attack.

The Melbourne Renegades already feature Australia’s top white-ball spinner, Adam Zampa, who claimed 12 wickets in 10 matches last season. Including Ravichandran Ashwin would greatly enhance the Melbourne Renegades’ spin attack, enabling him and Adam Zampa to fully capitalize on the spin-friendly conditions at Docklands Stadium.

Moreover, the Renegades secured Jason Behrendorff, the leading wicket-taker of the 2024-25 season. Combining Behrendorff’s pace with the spin duo of Zampa and Ashwin would give the team a well-rounded attack. This balanced bowling lineup could make the Renegades a formidable side, capable of dominating matches and improving their performance in the upcoming 2025-26 BBL season.

• Melbourne Stars

The Melbourne Stars could be another franchise keen on signing Ravichandran Ashwin for the 2025-26 BBL season. Historically, the team has depended largely on pace bowlers, leaving their spin attack less impactful compared to other sides.

Ahead of the new season, the Stars have already secured Mitchell Swepson from the Brisbane Heat to strengthen their spin options. Bringing in the 38-year-old Ashwin would add experience and variety to their attack. His skillful variations and ability to adapt would suit the long boundaries at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, making him a valuable addition to the Stars’ bowling lineup.

The Melbourne Stars already feature star players such as Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis. Adding Ashwin would not only strengthen their leadership core but also provide crucial guidance and mentorship to emerging talent within the squad, helping the younger players develop while enhancing the team’s overall balance and strategy for the 2025-26 BBL season.

• Adelaide Strikers

The Adelaide Strikers are the last team expected to target Ravichandran Ashwin for the 2025-26 BBL. The team had a disappointing 2024-25 season, finishing at the bottom of the table. Their spin attack struggled to make an impact, with Lloyd Pope taking 15 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 21.13 and an economy of 9.05.

Pope, however, lacked sufficient support from the other bowlers, leaving gaps in the bowling lineup. Ashwin’s expertise and experience could become a crucial asset here. Having played 333 T20 matches and taken 317 wickets, the 38-year-old off-spinner brings the ability to bowl at different stages of the innings. In addition, his batting skills add depth to the lineup, giving the Strikers an extra option down the order.

With pacers like Luke Wood, Hasan Ali, and Jamie Overton in the squad, Ashwin would perfectly complement the pace attack. His inclusion could strengthen the team’s bowling balance and provide the leadership and experience needed to help Adelaide Strikers bounce back in the 2025-26 BBL season.

Young Australian batting talent Sam Konstas has committed himself to the Sydney Thunder for the long term by signing a four-year contract extension that will see him in a Thunder shirt until the 2028–29 Big Bash League.

Konstas, 19 years old, has already been on a rollercoaster ride in international cricket. He averaged just 8.33 runs in three Test matches in the West Indies, but the young opener is set on bouncing back and being more consistent. To re-establish his rhythm and sharpen his focus, he has deleted Instagram from his phone to remove any distractions.

“I’m actually off Instagram now… It’s just not having that distraction. I am trying to give myself the best chance to perform at that level,” Konstas said. "I've had the support of all the senior players in the group, and in particular, Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, and Mitchell Starc have been great in terms of support. Steve Smith has been good at sharing batting advice, and the way he shared with me how Pat Cummins reminded everyone about how important it was to balance and rest."

Konstas signs on with Thunder, from record debut to boyhood dream

Despite recent challenges, Konstas' talent and potential remain clear. He made an impact on his BBL debut last season when he slammed a 20-ball half-century, the quickest in Thunder history, which made him the competition's youngest to reach the milestone. Konstas was part of Australia's Under-19 World Cup-winning team and is viewed as a potential building block of the national team.

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Konstas feels sentiment towards his contract as a Thunder supporter by nature. "I remember watching Davey Warner, Michael Hussey, and Andre Russell play for Thunder in the stands, so to now extend for another four years is very exciting to me," he said. "Batting with Davey last season was a massive, massive learning opportunity. Obviously, he’s very strategic, but he gave me clarity and freedom to just play my game. We've got an exciting group again this year, adding Shadab Khan. I feel like this is the year we’re going to dominate."

Trent Copeland, the General Manager of the Thunder, called the extension one of the easiest decisions of his career. "Sam continues to progress amazingly. From breaking records on debut to developing across formats, this deal showcases his growth, and we are excited to continue on this journey with him, as we believe he can be a Thunder player for life".

SA20 organisers are confident about the league’s growing stature and are not worried about competition from Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). Commissioner Graeme Smith shared that the tournament has already built a solid foundation.

He pointed out that SA20 has quickly gained recognition, both locally and internationally, with strong fan engagement and quality performances from players across the globe. This growth, according to Smith, has given the league a secure position in the cricketing calendar.

With the BBL aiming to become the second-largest T20 competition after the IPL, Smith emphasized that SA20’s vision remains focused on sustainability and long-term impact. He believes the league has already made significant strides to hold its own.

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Graeme Smith on Impact of SA20:

The SA20’s fourth season starts on Boxing Day, with all six teams owned by IPL investors. With a salary cap of R41 million (US$2.31 million), the league stands second only to the IPL in financial strength.

Commissioner Graeme Smith said strong franchise support makes SA20 one of the leading global T20 leagues. With a marquee auction scheduled for September 9, he emphasized the organisers’ commitment to maintaining this status. Smith discussed these details with ESPNcricinfo before player registrations closed for the upcoming SA20 auction.

He said, “ When we started we were built up against the ILT20 and Big Bash and we set ourselves big ambitions upfront. In the southern hemisphere window we want to dominate and we want to be the biggest league outside the IPL. Three years in, we've set the standard. Every decision we make is around making sure that we uphold those standards.”

He added, “ I expect there will be a top number of leagues that will elevate themselves in a calendar cycle and that will be the priority for players, investors and fans. Our ambitions are to remain right at the top of that alongside IPL.”

CA targets second spot with BBL privatisation plans:

Smith’s remarks follow closely after Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg stated on SEN radio that his board would “openly” pursue the position of the world’s second-biggest T20 league. Greenberg mentioned that they are considering the option of privatisation as part of their strategy to elevate the Big Bash League’s status in global cricket.

Todd Greenberg said, “ It's going to be very hard to chase the IPL, given the scale of cricket in India, but unashamedly, we want to run a league that comes second. And to do that we're going to need to make sure that player availability and player salaries are commensurate with everything else that goes on around the world, and there's one thing you need for that, you need money, you need investment. We'd be naive if we weren't asking ourselves these questions and making sure we've got an eye on what's next.”

The BBL’s decision to explore private investment marks it as the last major T20 league to move beyond board-controlled funding. Recently, The Hundred followed a similar path, finalising ownership deals for six of its eight franchises ahead of the upcoming season.

While The Hundred’s developments don’t directly impact SA20 due to their separate schedules, the BBL presents a different challenge. Since the BBL coincides with the SA20, the overlap could lead to competition for recognition and, more importantly, for player availability. This clash of windows may create tough choices for cricketers and potentially spark a rivalry between the leagues.

Smith backs SA20 priority over international commitments:

Graeme Smith stays optimistic about SA20 despite BBL competition. Unlike Australia, whose league runs alongside their international summer and often misses Test stars, South Africa ensures all its contracted and national players prioritize the SA20, even ahead of international fixtures.

An example came last year when South Africa fielded a weakened Test squad against New Zealand to protect the SA20. Though this decision drew criticism, South Africa later won the World Test Championship final. Smith believes this outcome shows that with proper planning, international cricket and franchise leagues can successfully co-exist without diminishing either format.

He said, “ Everyone was worried that we were going to destroy Test cricket but we've seen our national team go on a few years later to win the World Test Championship final. We've all played our role in the ecosystem. We've been part of bringing gravitas back to South African cricket, seeing new fans come back to the game and new energy.”

The SA20 has also drawn international stars, including several English Test players who joined last season during their winter break. Although this year’s Ashes series may limit such participation, Graeme Smith remains optimistic about attracting a strong group of overseas players, ensuring the league continues to feature global talent alongside South Africa’s top domestic and national cricketers.

He further said, “ In the first two seasons we saw a lot of the England white-ball players come through and then with the FTP ebbing and flowing every year that changes. So this year with the Ashes, we see some of those white ball players come back and maybe the Test players won't form part of this season.”

He added, “ The Ashes finishes on the ninth (of January, 2026). I don't know if some of their players will form part of replacement lists but we've seen the likes of a Jos Butler come back into the tournament this year as an example.”

SA20 Season Four Set During Festive Period:

Jos Buttler, previously with Paarl Royals, has been signed by Durban Super Giants for SA20 season four. Franchises could retain or pre-sign up to six players, and of the 36 available slots, only 13 went to South African players, which Graeme Smith expects will make the upcoming auction highly competitive.

Smith said, “ I expected a lot more top South African players to pre-sign and that didn't happen. From our perspective it's set up a very exciting auction with a very big purse.”

The SA20’s fourth season will take place during the festive period, with no home Tests scheduled in South Africa this summer. Matches won’t use the new drop-in pitches planned for the 2027 ODI World Cup, but Graeme Smith hopes the break from cricket will produce livelier surfaces than last year, which showed noticeable wear.

He added, “ The pitches last year didn't play as well as we would have liked and it's something that's being worked on in terms of revamping stadiums and facilities ahead of the World Cup. We're working closely with Cricket South Africa in terms of improving the quality of stadiums, lights and pitches. Everything is a big work in progress behind the scenes.”

The SA20 player auction is scheduled for September 9 in Johannesburg, with the registration window closing earlier on Monday, August 18. Cricketers aiming to feature in the fourth season must complete their registrations before this deadline, allowing franchises to prepare for the upcoming auction and finalise their squads ahead of the festive period tournament.

Cricket is gearing up for a major global shake-up as the Champions League T20 format is set to return – this time with a new identity. Reports suggest the revamped competition will be called the World Club Championship, bringing together the winners of the world’s top T20 franchise leagues in a blockbuster tournament format.

Several sources have indicated that the event will take place in 2026, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) being two of the most invested in the revival. Furthermore, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has also given support to the idea, signalling its desire to take club T20 cricket globally.

Participating Leagues in the Inaugural Edition:

However, there’s a major omission. No team from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will feature in the first edition, reportedly due to Pakistan Cricket Board’s absence from a key meeting held in London. The meeting, hosted under the ICC’s umbrella, was attended by representatives of all the major T20 leagues, including the Emirates League, SA20, CPL, and more. The Lahore Qalandars, the reigning PSL champions, will miss out.

Building a Unified T20 Ecosystem – and Blunting Saudi Ambitions

ECB CEO Richard Gould, in a statement to ESPNcricinfo, confirmed that the tournament is indeed "on the cards" for both men and women, calling it “the next logical step” for the evolution of franchise cricket.

The World Club Championship is also reportedly being fast-tracked to counter the emergence of the Saudi Cricket League, a high-budget T20 initiative backed by a reported USD 400 million investment. Saudi plans to model their league on the tennis Grand Slam format, but opposition from top cricket boards like the BCCI and ECB – who are unlikely to grant NOCs to their players – has already created roadblocks.

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With nearly every cricketing nation now boasting a franchise T20 league, a unified global competition makes strategic sense. It not only provides a global stage for top-performing teams but also gives players from emerging leagues – like those in the UAE and USA – a golden opportunity to rub shoulders with the sport’s elite.

A Global Reboot of Franchise Cricket's Biggest Stage

The concept closely mirrors the now-defunct Champions League T20, which ran from 2009 to 2014. That tournament saw top clubs from the IPL, BBL, South Africa’s Ram Slam, and others compete in a high-stakes, intercontinental format. The new World Club Championship aims to revive that legacy – but with a more inclusive, globally aligned structure.

Though the exact format and schedule are still under discussion, the World Club Championship is likely to:

• Feature winners (or top teams) from each major T20 league
  
• Rotate venues globally
  
• Feature both men’s and women’s editions in the long run
  
• Be supported by strong broadcast and commercial deals
  

The stage is now being set for what could become cricket’s ultimate franchise showdown. With most of the cricketing world on board and ICC backing secured, the World Club Championship promises to redefine the global T20 calendar – and spark new rivalries along the way.

In a major boost for the reigning Big Bash League champions, the Hobart Hurricanes have confirmed the re-signing of explosive middle-order batter Tim David on a two-year contract, locking him in until the end of BBL 16.

David, who was a driving force behind Hobart’s title-winning campaign in BBL 14, knocked back interest from rival BBL clubs including both Melbourne franchises to remain part of the ‘Cane Train’. His match-winning abilities with the bat, especially during the tense back end of games, made him one of the most sought-after players on the market. “I’m super excited to re-sign with the Hurricanes for another two seasons,” David said. “Last year was special, and I can't wait to do it all again next summer.”

BBL 14: David at His Best

The 28-year-old produced his best Big Bash season to date in BBL 14, scoring 254 runs at an average of 42.33 and an astonishing strike rate of 177.62. Nicknamed the "Surge Goliath" by fans and commentators, David smashed 114 runs in the two-over Power Surge period alone, striking a jaw-dropping 285.

His heroics were crucial in clutch wins against the Adelaide Strikers, Sydney Thunder, and Melbourne Renegades three consecutive victories that ultimately helped the Hurricanes reach the finals and claim their first BBL title.

Since joining the Hurricanes from the Perth Scorchers in BBL 10, David has amassed 1,217 runs at a strike rate of 159.92, including four fifties. Known for his clean power hitting and athleticism in the outfield, he has become a central figure in the Hurricanes’ rise to championship status.

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Leadership and Loyalty

Cricket Tasmania General Manager of High Performance, Salliann Beams, praised David’s impact on and off the field. “Tim has been instrumental in shaping what we’re building here in Hobart. His leadership last season played a massive role in helping the team win our first championship,” Beams said. “He’s a game-changer, and we’re lucky to have him on our side.”

David’s decision to stay comes after months of speculation and reported offers from multiple clubs. Despite being uncontracted during the post-season Player Movement Window, the Hurricanes’ continued faith and vision have won out.

Hurricanes Squad Taking Shape for BBL 15

With David’s re-signing, 15 of the 18 available squad spots are now filled for BBL 15. The Hurricanes also added key names in Jake Weatherald (Adelaide Strikers) and Beau Webster (Melbourne Stars), while Caleb Jewell has departed for the Renegades.

Current Contracted Players for BBL 15:

Batters & All-rounders: Tim David, Ben McDermott, Mitch Owen, Matt Wade, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster, Mac Wright, Nikhil Chaudhary

Bowlers: Nathan Ellis, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake, Iain Carlisle

Overseas Players: Rehan Ahmed (England), Rishad Hossain (Bangladesh), Chris Jordan (England)

Uncontracted Players: Marcus Bean, Paddy Dooley, Jake Doran, Cameron Gannon, Peter Hatzoglou, Shai Hope, Waqar Salamkheil, Charlie Wakim, Tim Ward

The Hurricanes are set to begin their BBL 15 campaign on December 16, with a grand final rematch against the Sydney Thunder at Ninja Stadium. They’ll aim to become the first franchise to win back-to-back titles since the Perth Scorchers’ run in BBL 11 and BBL 12. Details on memberships, tickets, and match schedules will be released soon. Fans can sign up for pre-sale access at bigbash.com.au.

The KFC Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 is almost here, and excitement is building fast among cricket fans around the world. With Australia’s top T20 league entering its 15th season, fans are eagerly looking for the full match schedule, team lists, live broadcast info, and key dates to mark on their calendars.

This year’s edition begins on December 21, 2025, and will wrap up with a thrilling final on January 25, 2026. With returning rivalries, packed stadiums, and the possibility of Test stars joining after the Ashes series, the season promises non-stop cricketing entertainment.

 BBL 2025–26 Tournament Overview

ALSO SEE: Wisden reveals current World Test XI: Four indians make the cut

BBL Playoff Format

The top four teams after the league phase will qualify for the playoffs:

• Qualifier: 1st vs 2nd - Winner advances to the Final
• Knockout: 3rd vs 4th -Loser eliminated
• Challenger: Loser of Qualifier vs Winner of Knockout
• Final: Winner of Qualifier vs Winner of Challenger

Where to Watch BBL 2025–26 Live

• India: Sony Sports Network & Sony LIV
• Australia: Fox Sports, Seven Network & Kayo Sports
• USA: Willow TV
• UK: Sky Sports Cricket
• Pakistan: Ten Sports
• New Zealand: Sky Sport NZ
• MENA: BeIN Sports
• Canada: CBN & ATN Cricket Plus

Live radio commentary will also be available on SEN Radio in Australia.

Player Watch: Babar Azam to Debut in BBL

Pakistan superstar Babar Azam will make his BBL debut this season for the Sydney Sixers, having signed before the 2025–26 Draft. One of the world’s top T20 batters, Babar is expected to bring a global fan following to the Sixers' campaign.

How to Buy BBL Tickets

Tickets for BBL matches can be purchased online via Ticketek Australia. It’s advisable to book early, especially for rivalry games and weekend fixtures.

List of BBL 15 Venues

Matches will be played across 11 iconic venues:

• Optus Stadium, Perth
• SCG & ENGIE Stadium, Sydney
• MCG & Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
• GMHBA Stadium, Geelong
• Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
• Blundstone Arena, Hobart
• The Gabba, Brisbane
• Manuka Oval, Canberra
• Coffs Harbour International Stadium

The Big Bash League 2025–26 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons in recent years. With 44 matches, thrilling doubleheaders, and the possibility of Test stars joining post-Ashes, fans are in for a T20 feast.

In a major development for global T20 cricket, reports indicate that the long-defunct Champions League T20 is on track to make a grand return. The Cricketer has reported that the tournament has plans to relaunch in 2026, under a new name—the World Club Championship. The revamped competition aims to bring together top-performing T20 teams from around the world in a new, exciting format.

The new tournament will have a similar structure to the original tournament, Champions League T20 with champions of premier domestic T20 leagues like the IPL, BBL, PSL, SA20 and The Hundred participating. While specific details such as the number of participating teams are still under discussion, reports suggest that the ECB is likely to propose that winners of The Hundred participate instead of those from the Vitality Blast. The initiative has already gained traction, receiving backing from both the BCCI and ECB, with ICC Chairman Jay Shah reportedly giving the green light.

"That is on the cards. Without a doubt, at some point, there will be a World Club Championship for both men and women. That's the next logical step," said ECB’s Richard Gould, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo. The idea is to create a true global club championship that mirrors the prestige and competition level of football’s UEFA Champions League.

The Rise, Fall, and Revival of CLT20

The Champions League T20 tournament was launched in 2009 and was held annually until 2014. Although it was scheduled for its sixth tournament in 2015, the tournament was cancelled due to poor viewership and lack of a dedicated sponsor. It featured Tier 1 teams from four leagues, with IPL teams the most represented, often with three IPL teams qualifying. Notably, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians were the most successful franchises, each winning the tournament twice.

🚨 Champions League T20 set to be revived as World Club Championship from 2026 with teams from #IPL, 100 & #BBL participating (as per The Cricketer)

Another report says that Jay Shah's ICC has given its backing too (as per Cricxtasy)

Used to pray for such times😭 #CLT20 #GSLT20 pic.twitter.com/P5z5AmorNC

— t20 and nations (@t20andnations) July 1, 2025

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The revival comes at a time when T20 leagues have flourished globally, providing a perfect setting for a truly competitive club championship. With more leagues and higher global interest in franchise cricket, the World Club Championship could finally deliver on the promise of an international platform for domestic T20 champions—potentially becoming cricket’s version of the football Champions League.