ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule, Match Dates, Venues & Tournament Format

Tournament Timeline: ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Group Stage Phase: February 7-20, 2026

The tournament launches on February 7 with six teams in action on opening day, including defending champions India facing USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. All 40 group matches will be completed by February 20, with 20 participating nations split into four groups of five teams each. Every team battles through four crucial matches to secure their place in the next phase. The opening match features Pakistan taking on Netherlands in Colombo, setting an exciting tone for the competition.

Super 8 Phase: February 21 – March 1, 2026

The Super 8 phase commences on February 21, where the top eight qualifiers are redistributed into two groups of four teams. This phase creates fresh rivalries and high-pressure encounters where teams play three matches each. Super 8 matches will be split between Indian venues (Ahmedabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi) and Sri Lankan venues (Kandy and both Colombo stadiums), maintaining geographical balance throughout this critical stage.

Knockout Phase: March 4-8, 2026

The tournament culminates with the final on March 8, following two semi-finals that determine which nations compete for cricket’s most prestigious T20 trophy. The first semi-final will be played at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, while the second semi-final takes place at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad will host the championship final, where the 2026 T20 World Champions will be crowned.

Tournament Structure

The 20-team tournament runs across 29 days, featuring strategically scheduled rest days and double-headers to balance player welfare with fan engagement. India aims to become the first team to defend their Men’s T20 World Cup crown, following their historic victory in Barbados in 2024. Weekend fixtures are timed during prime viewing hours to maximize stadium attendance and global television audiences.

T20 World Cup 2026 Host Venues

The tournament will be played across eight venues—five in India and three in Sri Lanka. This selection ensures diverse playing conditions ranging from pace-friendly tracks to traditional spinning wickets, testing every aspect of teams’ capabilities.

Premier Indian Venues

Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

The world’s largest cricket stadium will host the grand final, with seating for over 132,000 spectators creating an unmatched atmosphere. The venue’s modern infrastructure and massive capacity make it the perfect stage for cricket’s biggest moment. Teams competing in Super 8 matches here will experience the electric environment before potential knockout appearances.

Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

India begins their title defense with a marquee night fixture against the United States on February 7 at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. This historic venue, famous for hosting the 2011 ODI World Cup final, will also stage the second semi-final. The stadium’s true batting surfaces and unique sea breeze factor create distinct tactical challenges for visiting teams.

Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Few cricket venues match Eden Gardens’ legendary atmosphere and historical significance. Known as the “Cathedral of Indian Cricket,” this 90,000-capacity fortress will host crucial group stage and Super 8 encounters. The passionate Kolkata crowds create one of cricket’s most intimidating environments, adding psychological pressure to every match.

M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Chennai’s 50,000-capacity venue is renowned for traditional spin-friendly conditions that separate technically sound teams from the rest. Teams need smart game plans and quality spin bowling to succeed on these challenging surfaces. The stadium regularly hosts Super 8 matches where tournament dreams can quickly unravel.

Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

Delhi’s premier cricket facility joins the tournament roster, hosting group stage and Super 8 matches. The venue offers balanced conditions with something for both batsmen and bowlers, ensuring competitive cricket throughout.

Sri Lankan Cricket Strongholds

R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

All Pakistan matches will be played at this venue due to the neutral venue agreement between BCCI and PCB. The 35,000-capacity stadium showcases Sri Lanka’s cricket heritage with modern facilities and passionate local support. The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash takes place here on February 15, promising an electric atmosphere. This venue also hosts the first semi-final.

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy

Set against stunning hill country backdrops, Pallekele’s 35,000-capacity venue offers unique playing conditions. The higher elevation and cooler climate increase swing bowling effectiveness, creating different challenges compared to coastal venues. Its picturesque mountain-surrounded setting makes every match visually spectacular.

Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo

This historic Colombo venue completes Sri Lanka’s hosting duties, bringing old-world charm to the modern tournament. The ground hosts several crucial group stage matches where teams establish their tournament momentum or face early elimination pressure.

Venue Diversity and Strategic Importance

Each stadium presents distinct tactical challenges requiring teams to adapt their playing elevens, strategies, and game plans. Ground dimensions, pitch characteristics, local weather patterns, and altitude all influence match outcomes. Only the most versatile and well-prepared squads will navigate these challenges successfully, making venue adaptation a crucial tournament skill.