India and Sri Lanka Set Stage for 2026 T20 World Cup

When the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced that the 2026 Twenty‑20 World Cup would be hosted by India and Sri Lanka, excitement rippled across the subcontinent. The decision promised a blend of modern stadiums, historic grounds and a fan‑friendly calendar that could attract record crowds.

Photo by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash

Venue Shortlisting

The ICC’s initial shortlist featured 12 venues, spanning both nations. In India, the selection included iconic grounds such as the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, and the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Sri Lanka’s slate comprised the Galle International Stadium, the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo, and the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. These venues were chosen for their infrastructure, pitch quality, and ability to accommodate large audiences.

Finalised Circuit

On 6 November, the ICC confirmed the venues, solidifying the tournament’s itinerary. The schedule will see 12 matches in the group stages spread over three days at each venue, followed by a knockout phase that culminates in a grand finale. A key highlight is the inclusion of Ahmedabad as the host for the final match, a decision that underscores the city’s growing reputation as a cricketing hub. The city’s state‑of‑the‑art Narendra Modi Stadium, with a seating capacity of 132,000, will provide a dramatic backdrop for the championship clash.

• India: Wankhede, M. Chinnaswamy, Narendra Modi, Eden Gardens, Sardar Patel, and others.
• Sri Lanka: Galle, SSC, Pallekele, R. Premadasa, and additional venues.

Ahmedabad Final Showdown

Ahmedabad’s selection as the final venue has stirred anticipation among fans and players alike. The city’s cricket culture, coupled with modern amenities, promises a vibrant atmosphere. The final will not only decide the world champion but also serve as a showcase of the ICC’s commitment to expanding the T20 format’s global footprint. With the final set for a prime date in early December, the ICC has ensured that the match will attract international broadcasters and a worldwide audience.

As the 2026 T20 World Cup approaches, the confirmed venues and the choice of Ahmedabad for the climax underscore the ICC’s strategy to blend tradition with innovation. The tournament will offer a thrilling mix of high‑intensity cricket, fan engagement, and regional pride, setting the stage for an unforgettable championship in the heart of South Asia.