The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to be a landmark tenth edition of the tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. A total of 20 nations will compete in 55 high-octane matches, following the successful format of the 2024 edition with a group stage, Super 8s, and knockouts. The tournament will be spread across eight iconic venues, including the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
This edition also marks a historic debut for Italy, highlighting the growing global footprint of the T20 format as it approaches its inclusion in the 2028 Olympics. Fans are eagerly anticipating the final, which is slated to take place on March 8, potentially at the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad.
“You can never write them off”: Graeme Smith names his favourite team to win the T20 World Cup 2026
Speaking in Durban on January 10, 2026, South African legend Graeme Smith named India as a primary favorite for the upcoming World Cup, despite the team navigating a period of structural change. Smith highlighted that the combination of home conditions and raw talent makes India an automatic candidate for the final four. He described the current state of the team under head coach Gautam Gambhir as a fascinating watch:
“With India’s talent, you can never write them off. It’s a home World Cup. And it does seem an interesting transition phase in Indian cricket, you know, between Gautam (Gambhir) and senior players and, you know, who’s next and how that transition happens. And it seems to be in an interesting place. So, it’s going to be good to watch how things go. But certainly from a talent perspective, India, if they’re not in the last four at least, I’ll be very surprised.” Smith was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
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Smith reveals his T20 World Cup final dream
While acknowledging India’s prowess, Smith admitted that his heart remains with the Proteas, especially after their narrow seven-run loss to India in the 2024 final. He expressed strong belief in South Africa’s current group, particularly their ability to handle subcontinental spin, which will be the defining factor in matches across India and Sri Lanka. Smith candidly shared his hope for a rematch in the final:
“Obviously, I’d like us to beat India in the final (laughs). I think if Shukri [Conrad] and the team can get their combinations right, I think there’s a real opportunity that the team can do very well. And, you know, I think there’s enough quality of ability to play spin there as well in that middle order, particularly in India. So, let’s hope, you know, that there will be a good World Cup around the corner.” Smith concluded.
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