ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 will kick off on Feb 7

The cricket world is set to converge on the subcontinent as the 10th edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup officially begins this Saturday, February 7, 2026. Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the tournament features 20 teams competing in 55 matches over the next month.

Key Tournament Details

• Dates: February 7 – March 8, 2026.
• Opening Match: Defending champions India will face the USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on the opening night.
• Format: 20 teams divided into four groups. The top two from each group advance to the Super 8s, followed by the semi-finals and the grand final.
• Grand Final: Scheduled for March 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Dramatic Lead-Up

The tournament has already seen its share of headlines before the first ball has even been bowled. Scotland made a late entry into the tournament after Bangladesh withdrew due to security concerns. Additionally, tensions have flared with reports of Pakistan potentially boycotting their high-stakes clash against India, currently scheduled for February 15 in Colombo.

Defending champions India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, are the favorites on home soil, while teams like Australia—who recently lost captain Pat Cummins to injury—and England are looking to challenge for the title.