The T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, will see India and Pakistan in the same group once again. According to the ICC, the tournament features four groups of five teams. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Eight, and then onto the semifinals and final.
India-Pakistan Pool: Favorable but Challenging
India, ranked number 1 in T20 Internationals, shares the group with:
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Pakistan
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Netherlands
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Namibia
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USA
India and Pakistan are the only Test-playing nations in the group, accompanied by three Associate teams, which increases their chances of reaching the Super Eight.
India’s group-stage matches will proceed as follows:
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Against USA
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Against Namibia
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Against Pakistan (scheduled in Colombo)
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Against Netherlands
However, the group is not without risk. Pakistan lost to the USA in the 2024 T20 World Cup, showing that upsets are always possible.
Other Groups: Tough Battles Ahead
Meanwhile, other groups promise intense competition:
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Sri Lanka, ranked 8th, faces Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Oman, making their start high-pressure from day one.
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Another group contains England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Italy.
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The fourth group includes South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE, and Canada.
Venues and Knockout Schedule
The tournament will take place across multiple cities:
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India leg: Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad
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Sri Lanka leg: Colombo, Kandy
The final is currently planned for Ahmedabad, but if Pakistan reaches the final, Colombo will host one semifinal and the final. Mumbai and Kolkata are likely to host the other semifinal, with exact venues to be confirmed.
The ICC will officially announce the group draw at an event in Mumbai on November 25.
Looking Ahead
The India-Pakistan clash remains the most anticipated match, promising thrilling cricket action. With strong teams and high stakes, the T20 World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be unforgettable.
