The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is approaching, and the Cricket world is eager for the tournament. This edition features twenty teams, making it one of the largest World Cups so far. Italy will participate for the first time, while Bangladesh is the only full-member nation not taking part.
India and Sri Lanka will co-host the event, with several top teams from the ICC T20I rankings also qualified. Some teams emerged from regional qualifiers to secure their spots. While all teams will compete for the trophy, a few are already seen as favorites.
India
Heading into the T20 World Cup 2026, India appears to be the strongest team on paper. With players like Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma, they have some of the finest T20 batsmen. Their bowling lineup, led by Jasprit Bumrah and supported by Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav, is also impressive.
No team has successfully defended their T20 World Cup title, nor has any team won the tournament on home soil. However, this time, it seems possible for India to achieve a historic first, with the tournament starting on February 7.
South Africa
South Africa has faced challenges in securing ICC titles over the last decade. Since 2016, they’ve advanced to the knockout stages in various ICC events but have only won the WTC Final in 2025. Under Aiden Markram’s leadership, the team aims to approach the World Cup with renewed confidence.
The Proteas were close to winning their first World Cup title in 2024, but it ultimately went to India. With a record of 32 wins and 16 losses from 49 matches, plus one game without a result, South Africa will pose a strong challenge in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Australia
Australia is always a team to watch ahead of any ICC event, and they’re set to compete vigorously in the 2026 T20 World Cup. Led by Mitchell Marsh, they’re looking to win their second title. With a blend of experienced players and new talent, they are well-equipped to face any rival.
Since the tournament began in 2007, Australia has played 47 matches, winning 30. Their win percentage is among the highest in the competition’s history, solidifying their loyal following. It will be interesting to see how they perform without key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Steven Smith.
