NEW DELHI: The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and Eden Gardens in Kolkata are among the frontrunners to host the semifinals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, according to Indian media reports.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly finalized eight venues across India and Sri Lanka for the month-long tournament, which the two neighboring nations will co-host. Matches in India are expected to take place in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata, while Sri Lanka will stage games at two venues in Colombo and one in Kandy.
However, the final venue remains undecided. Sources indicate that the ICC is keeping the decision flexible due to potential political sensitivities surrounding Pakistan’s participation. If Pakistan qualifies for the final, the title clash will likely be held in Colombo; otherwise, Ahmedabad could host the championship match.
A similar arrangement applies to the semifinals: if Pakistan or Sri Lanka reach the final four, their match will be played in Colombo. If neither qualifies, both semifinals are expected to take place in India — one each in Ahmedabad and Kolkata.
The 2026 T20 World Cup will feature 20 teams, following the same format as the 2024 edition held in the USA and the West Indies. Teams will be divided into four groups of five, with the top two from each advancing to the Super Eight stage, followed by semifinals and the final.
Apart from the 13 Test-playing nations, Canada, the Netherlands, UAE, Nepal, Oman, and Namibia have qualified, while Italy is set to make its maiden appearance at an ICC senior event. India will defend the title after beating South Africa in the June 2024 final. The ICC is expected to release the official schedule soon.
