BCCI Shortlists 5 Cities For T20 World Cup 2026
Get ready, cricket fans. The world is once again turning its attention to India, which, along with Sri Lanka, will host one of the most anticipated sporting events of 2026, the Men’s T20 World Cup. And here’s the first, truly breaking news: BCCI shortlists 5 cities for T20 World Cup 2026.
Ahmedabad: The Heart of the Finale
If there’s a place in India made for grand cricket shows, it’s undoubtedly Ahmedabad. It’s here, at the monumental Narendra Modi Stadium, which can accommodate over a hundred thousand fans, that the final match of the championship will be held. Remember that electrifying 2023 ODI World Cup final between India and Australia? The stadium has already proven that it can host an event of any scale, so holding the final here is not just logical, but symbolic.
Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai
The other four cities are the real powerhouses of Indian cricket. Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai are more than just Tier 1 cities on the map. These are places with a unique cricket history. It’s safe to say that matches at these arenas will be packed to capacity. Just imagine the atmosphere at Eden Gardens or Arun Jaitely Stadium during the decisive matches — goosebumps are guaranteed.
Sri Lanka: Neutral Territory for Pakistan
And here’s where the real political and sporting intrigue begins. Due to understandable tensions in relations, the Pakistani team will not come to India. Instead, all of its matches will be held on neutral ground in Sri Lanka. Colombo will become a second home for the “greens,” as well as a backup option for the final. If Pakistan advances to the final, the 2026 T20 World Cup final will be held not in Ahmedabad, but on the island. The agreement between the ICC, BCCI, and PCB, valid until 2027, is an attempt to separate sport from politics, but, as you can see, nuances remain.
BCCI shortlists 5 cities for T20 World Cup 2026: why Bangalore isn’t in the list
Many will probably be surprised by the absence of Bangalore on the list. Unfortunately, there’s a very sad reason for this decision. Let’s not forget the tragic incident in June, when a stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB’s IPL victory celebrations claimed the lives of 11 people. Following this terrible tragedy, the association was unable to obtain the necessary permits to host international matches.
First, the city lost the right to host the Women’s ODI World Cup, and now, sadly, it has been left out of the men’s T20 tournament. It is a stark reminder that the safety of fans is a priority that cannot be compromised.
BCCI shortlists 5 cities for T20 World Cup 2026, and the ICC is expected to release the official tournament schedule next week. One thing is certain: we’re in for an incredible show. India enter the tournament as the reigning champions, and playing at home brings both pressure and huge motivation.
