Mumbai, Nov 25 (NationPress) India is set to kick off their title defence in the T20 World Cup on February 7, 2026, facing off against the USA in Mumbai, as the ICC has revealed the complete schedule for the tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The competition's tenth edition will commence earlier on that day with a match between Pakistan and the Netherlands in Colombo, followed by a game featuring Bangladesh against the West Indies in Kolkata, culminating with an evening match involving India.

An agreement made earlier this year between India and Pakistan stipulates that the semifinals and finals will occur in varied locations depending on Pakistan's progress, adding a unique administrative aspect to the 2026 event.

India and Pakistan are the focal points of Group A, accompanied by the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands. Both Asian powerhouses are anticipated to advance, although the USA's surprising victory over Pakistan in the last edition serves as a caution against early complacency.

The crucial encounter between India and Pakistan is scheduled for February 15 in Colombo. Matches for India will also take place in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Ahemdabad.

Group B features Sri Lanka facing a challenging mix with Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman. Australia will kick off against Ireland, while Zimbabwe returns to World Cup action against the hosts.

Group C, spearheaded by two-time champions England, includes West Indies, Bangladesh, Italy, and Nepal. A notable match between England and West Indies is already set for February 11 in Mumbai, highlighting Italy's historic entry into the tournament.

Group D is arguably the most competitive, comprising Afghanistan, South Africa, and New Zealand, who reached the semifinals in 2024. Canada and UAE round out the group, but the focus will be on the heavyweight confrontations, especially South Africa vs Afghanistan and New Zealand vs South Africa, both scheduled for Ahemdabad.

The top two teams from each group will move on to the Super Eight stage, divided into two groups of four. The leading two from each Super Eight group will then advance to the semifinals, culminating in the final on March 8 to decide the 2026 champion.

T20 World Cup Groups:

Group A: India, USA, Namibia, Netherlands, Pakistan

Group B: Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Ireland, Oman

Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Italy, Nepal

Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Canada, UAE

India's Schedule:

1. India vs USA — February 7, Mumbai

2. India vs Namibia — February 12, New Delhi

3. India vs Pakistan — February 15, Colombo

4. India vs Netherlands — February 18, Ahmedabad