Exciting Cricket Calendar Ahead for Team India in 2026
Overview of India's Cricketing Journey
As Team India gears up for a busy 2026, the squad is set to participate in various tournaments across men's, women's, and U19 cricket. With the Men's and Women's T20 World Cups, the U19 World Cup, and significant tours on the horizon, India has numerous opportunities to defend their titles and create history.
Milestones Achieved in 2025
The year 2025 has been remarkable for Indian cricket, highlighted by victories in the Women's ODI World Cup, Men's Champions Trophy, Women's U19 World Cup, and the Blind Women's T20 World Cup. These accomplishments have laid a solid foundation for an action-packed 2026.
Key Events to Watch in 2026
Here are the major events and series for Indian cricket to keep an eye on in 2026:
U19 Men's World Cup
The U19 Men's World Cup is set to occur from January 15 to February 6, featuring 16 teams competing for the prestigious title. Team India, likely captained by Ayush Mhatre, aims for their sixth title after finishing as runners-up in 2024 against Australia.
Group A Matches
India is placed in Group A with Bangladesh, the USA, and New Zealand. Their campaign will commence against the USA at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
T20I Series Against New Zealand
Starting January 22, the senior Indian team will engage in a five-match T20I series against New Zealand. This series is crucial for final preparations ahead of the T20 World Cup in February, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the team.
Defending T20 World Cup Title
The T20 World Cup 2026 will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, featuring 20 teams. India, the defending champions, will begin their title defense against the USA.
Women's Tour of Australia
From February 15 to March 9, the Indian women's team will tour Australia for a Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is. This series is significant as it marks their first encounter since the Women's ODI World Cup semifinal.
White-Ball Series in England
In July, Team India will tour England for a white-ball series comprising three ODIs and five T20Is, crucial for their preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
World Test Championship Series
India will also face Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series as part of the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, aiming to improve their standings.
Women's T20I Series in England
The Indian women's team will play a three-match T20I series in England in late May, serving as preparation for the Women's T20 World Cup in June.
Upcoming Women's T20 World Cup
The Women's T20 World Cup will take place from June 12 to July 5, with India aiming for their first title after their recent ODI World Cup victory.
Asia Games Cricket
Both the men's and women's teams are the defending champions of the Asia Games cricket, having won gold medals in 2023. Cricket will feature again in the Asia Games, providing India a chance to defend their titles.
Test Series Against New Zealand
Next year, Team India will also tour New Zealand for a Test series, which is vital for their World Test Championship aspirations.
Historic Test Match at Lord's
In addition to the T20I series in May, India will play a one-off Test at Lord's, marking a significant moment in women's cricket history.