The council officially released the schedule for the T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament will run from 7 February to 8 March, with India and Sri Lanka serving as joint hosts.

Matches will be held across seven venues including Chennai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Colombo and Kandy. Fans are expecting large crowds in both countries as the event brings together top cricketing nations.

ICC has divided the 20 participating teams into four groups. The top two teams from each group will move into the Super 8 stage. In the Super 8s, the remaining eight teams will again be split into two groups, and the top two from each will qualify for the semi-finals.

In Group A, India, Pakistan, USA, Netherlands and Namibia will compete. Group B features Australia, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe and Oman. Group C includes England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal and Italy, while Group D consists of New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Canada and UAE.

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According to the schedule, Pakistan will play its first match on 7 February against the Netherlands. The second match will be on 10 February in Colombo against the USA. The much-anticipated Pakistan–India clash is set for 15 February in Colombo.

Pakistan’s fourth and final group match will take place on 18 February against Namibia, completing their group-stage campaign.

Experts say the joint hosting will help attract massive crowds and global attention. Pakistan’s group is balanced but competitive. The Pakistan–India match is expected to shape the group standings. Analysts believe early wins will be crucial for Pakistan’s confidence.