ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour Kicks Off with a Grand Launch
A Historic Launch Over Ram Setu
Today marked a spectacular celebration of cricket and cultural heritage as the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour, in collaboration with DP World, was inaugurated over the Adam's Bridge, known in India as Ram Setu. This site is a significant cultural landmark, symbolizing the connection between the two co-host nations, India and Sri Lanka.
In a stunning display against the backdrop of India's southern coastline, a two-seater paramotor took flight, showcasing the prestigious T20 World Cup trophy. The flight path traced the beautiful limestone shoals below, reaching the furthest authorized point over the bridge before returning, capturing breathtaking aerial footage and the excitement surrounding this momentous occasion. This dramatic ascent, framed by the expansive sea and sky, symbolizes the tournament's ambition and global significance.
Details of the T20 World Cup 2026
The 10th edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup is set to feature 20 teams competing over 29 days at eight premier venues—five in India and three in Sri Lanka. The tournament will run from February 7 to March 8, 2026, and is anticipated to be one of the most thrilling editions of this explosive format.
Officials Share Their Insights
ICC Chairman Jay Shah expressed, "Launching the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour above the Ram Setu, a site rich in history and cultural significance, sets an inspiring tone for this landmark event. This tour is more than just a trophy's journey; it symbolizes unity among continents, cultures, and cricketing communities, igniting passion among fans worldwide and reinforcing the spirit of our game."
He further added, "As we gear up for this global spectacle, we want supporters everywhere to feel connected to the journey leading to India and Sri Lanka. Each stop of the Trophy Tour will build anticipation and invite fans globally to celebrate what promises to be an unforgettable ICC Men's T20 World Cup."
BCCI's Commitment to Excellence
Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary of BCCI, stated, "The T20 World Cup brings a unique intensity and emotion, and launching the Trophy Tour at the iconic Ram Setu perfectly captures the magnitude of the journey ahead. India has successfully hosted two 50-over World Cups in the last three years, and we are thrilled to welcome fans to another world-class event. This edition will highlight the remarkable growth and depth of the T20 format in India."
"As co-host, the BCCI is dedicated to providing exceptional facilities for players and creating a memorable tournament experience for fans that will resonate long after the final match. The Trophy Tour marks the beginning of a campaign that will gain significant momentum as it travels through the cricketing world."
Sri Lanka Cricket's Enthusiasm
Shammi Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket, expressed great enthusiasm for the launch of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour with DP World. He noted, "This moment marks the beginning of an exciting journey as we prepare to welcome fans from around the world. Our commitment is to provide an exceptional tournament experience that reflects our supporters' passion, the vibrancy of our culture, and the energy of our venues. We look forward to creating lasting memories beyond the tournament."
Trophy Tour Itinerary and Fan Engagement
The Trophy Tour with DP World will travel across Asia, including stops in India, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Oman, Nepal, Bahrain, and Mongolia, allowing millions of fans to see the iconic trophy up close, engage in interactive experiences, and build excitement for the global event.
The tour will include a variety of activities such as campus visits, fan meet-ups, public events, and cricket festivals, all designed to celebrate the sport's energy and inclusivity.
In a special initiative, the trophy will also visit schools and colleges associated with players participating in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, providing young fans with a unique opportunity to connect with the global stage.
Additionally, the trophy will be showcased at major T20 leagues and select bilateral series, enhancing its visibility across competitive cricket and reinforcing the lead-up to the tournament across various formats and regions.
Tournament Venues
The tournament will take place at the following venues: Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad), MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai), Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi), Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai), Eden Gardens (Kolkata), R Premadasa Stadium (Colombo), Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground (Colombo), and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy).