Cricket fans have begun counting down to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. While the ICC is expected to announce the official schedule soon, reports have already revealed the potential Indian venues shortlisted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

According to a report by The Indian Express, BCCI officials have decided to conduct the tournament across fewer venues than the 2023 ODI World Cup — aiming for better logistical control and pitch management. Each shortlisted venue is expected to host around six matches.

Five Indian cities shortlisted for T20 World Cup 2026

The five cities most likely to host the matches are:

1. Ahmedabad – Narendra Modi Stadium

2. Mumbai – Wankhede Stadium

3. Delhi – Arun Jaitley Stadium

4. Kolkata – Eden Gardens

5. Chennai – MA Chidambaram Stadium

Among these, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad — the world’s largest cricket venue — is the front-runner to host the final of the T20 World Cup 2026. The stadium’s massive seating capacity and modern infrastructure make it the ideal choice for the high-voltage finale.

Sri Lanka to host part of the tournament

Alongside India, Sri Lanka will also host a portion of the matches, reportedly at three stadiums, though the final selection of venues is yet to be confirmed.

Why Bengaluru and Lucknow may miss out

Interestingly, Bengaluru and Lucknow, which were prominent venues in the 2023 World Cup, might not make the final list this time. This is because the BCCI reportedly decided to avoid awarding T20 World Cup matches to stadiums that are hosting the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup, which includes Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Indore, and Navi Mumbai.