T20 World Cup 2026: Full Group Stage Schedule and Venue Details
The 10th edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has officially kicked off, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. With 20 teams competing across 55 matches, the tournament is the largest in the format’s history. Fans are already flocking to iconic stadiums like the Wankhede in Mumbai and the R. Premadasa in Colombo to witness the action unfold.
The group stage, running from February 7 to February 20, features high-octane clashes, including the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match on February 15. Following the group stage, the top two teams from each of the four groups will move into the Super 8s, beginning on February 21.
ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Group Stage Schedule
Below is the confirmed schedule for the primary group matches, including venues and IST (Indian Standard Time) timings. Note that times and venues are fixed, but weather conditions can always play a part in sub-continental tournaments.
- Opening Match: Pakistan vs Netherlands (Feb 7, 11:00 AM – Colombo)
- India’s Debut: India vs USA (Feb 7, 7:00 PM – Mumbai)
- The Big Clash: India vs Pakistan (Feb 15, 7:00 PM – Colombo)
Full Group Match List (First Phase)
| Date | Matchup | Group | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 7 | Pakistan vs Netherlands | Group A | SSC, Colombo | 11:00 AM |
| Feb 7 | West Indies vs Scotland | Group C | Eden Gardens, Kolkata | 3:00 PM |
| Feb 7 | India vs USA | Group A | Wankhede, Mumbai | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 8 | New Zealand vs Afghanistan | Group D | Chennai | 11:00 AM |
| Feb 8 | England vs Nepal | Group C | Wankhede, Mumbai | 3:00 PM |
| Feb 8 | Sri Lanka vs Ireland | Group B | RPS, Colombo | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 9 | South Africa vs Canada | Group D | Ahmedabad | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 10 | Pakistan vs USA | Group A | SSC, Colombo | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 12 | India vs Namibia | Group A | Arun Jaitley, Delhi | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 14 | New Zealand vs South Africa | Group D | Ahmedabad | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 15 | India vs Pakistan | Group A | RPS, Colombo | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 18 | India vs Netherlands | Group A | Ahmedabad | 7:00 PM |
| Feb 20 | Australia vs Oman | Group B | Kandy | 7:00 PM |
Host Cities and Stadium Capacities
Analysts note that the distribution of matches favors high-capacity venues to maximize the record-breaking interest in the region. The tournament concludes with the Final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 8, 2026, which holds over 132,000 spectators.
Historically, hosting a World Cup in India results in a significant spike in local tourism and advertising revenue. This year is no different, with hotel prices in Colombo and Mumbai reportedly tripling for match weeks. If you haven’t secured your tickets yet, checking the official ICC portal daily is recommended as “resale” windows often open closer to the knockout stages.
Figures may shift once official updates arrive regarding secondary group seedings or potential weather-related rescheduling. Previous data on match timings for the knockout rounds is currently being finalized based on broadcast requirements.
FAQ
What time does India vs Pakistan start? The marquee match is scheduled for February 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM IST at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Which city will host the T20 World Cup 2026 Final? The final will be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 8, 2026.
Is Italy playing in the 2026 T20 World Cup? Yes, Italy has qualified and is making their debut in a major ICC event during this tournament.
Disclaimer: This schedule is based on official reporting as of February 2026. Match timings and venues are subject to change by the ICC due to unforeseen circumstances or broadcast adjustments.
Written by: Pravin Kumar – Sports – News Hours18 – https://www.newshours18.com
