Cricket is in for a big year in 2026. There are a couple of major ICC showpieces coming up, and there’s barely a weekend empty where other competitions are concerned. Between the global events and leagues, here are the tournaments to keep an eye out for in the coming months.
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (India & Sri Lanka, Feb 7-Mar 8)
The headline act of 2026 is the Men’s T20 World Cup, which runs from February 7 to March 8 across India and Sri Lanka. The tournament, which involves 20 teams, will see the venues in India reward power, and those in Sri Lanka see spinners come to the fore. This means that squads need to be able to pivot between styles rather than be wedded to a single plan. Due to the prestige of the event and potential for a giant-killing, people will be checking out all the latest sports betting odds before a ball is bowled.
Pakistan Super League (PSL, March 26-May 3)
The Pakistan Super League runs from March 26 to May 3, and in 2026, the tournament has expanded to include eight teams. This decision should not only help widen local presentation, but it should also open more pathways for young talent to come through. While you’d think the tournament is just big in Pakistan, the loud atmospheres, the quality of the cricket on show, and the chance to spot the next wave of talent in action make it a draw for international audiences.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup (England & Wales, Jun 12-Jul 5)
Following the Men’s T20 World Cup will be the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which takes place in England from June 12 to July 5. 12 teams will go head-to-head in the tournament, with the final being held at Lord’s. The competition isn’t only taking place during the summer months in England, but at prime time too, which should increase its popularity. The short format will also draw in viewers as it promotes aggressive batting.
The Hundred (England, Jul 21-Aug 16)
If there’s a cricket tournament that sits right in the sweet-spot where the calendar is concerned, it’s The Hundred. Getting underway at the height of summer on July 21 and running until August 16, it’s an event where men’s and women’s double headers help people make a day of it at the cricket. As always, the 100-ball format is a huge attraction, as it’s fast-paced cricket at its best, creating plenty of excitement throughout.
Indian Premier League (IPL)
There’s no bigger domestic product than the Indian Premier League. The relentless nature of fixtures and star power is what determines the approach when it comes to international sides and how they play T20. While the IPL is a spectacle in general, things get really interesting when the playoffs come around, as the results create headlines, which in turn draws in even casual fans. The IPL stays on top of its game because it’s a destination for the best cricket players in the world.
Conclusion
Every year is a big year for the sport of cricket, but 2026 feels like it could be huge. The Men’s and Women’s T20 World Cups are undoubtedly the showpiece events, but they’re supported by high-quality products like the Indian Premier League. And, with cricket fast-becoming casual friendly, interest and audiences will grow throughout the year, which is great for the sport.
