The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour with DP World was officially launched on Tuesday in a spectacular and symbolic setting above Adam’s Bridge, culturally revered in India as the Ram Setu, marking a historic moment ahead of the global tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The launch celebrated heritage, unity and cricket’s unifying power, with the Ram Setu serving as a symbolic gateway connecting the two host nations.
✈️ Dramatic Aerial Launch Captures Global Attention
Against the stunning backdrop of India’s southern coastline, a two-seater paramotor took to the skies carrying the coveted T20 World Cup trophy. The flight traced the shimmering chain of limestone shoals of the Ram Setu, reaching the farthest authorised point before circling back, offering breathtaking aerial visuals of the historic moment.
The dramatic lift-off, framed by vast sea and sky, was described as a powerful metaphor for the scale, ambition and global reach of the ICC’s flagship T20 event.
🗓️ T20 World Cup 2026: Key Details
The 10th edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be held from February 7 to March 8, 2026, featuring:
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🏏 20 teams
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⏱️ 29 days of action
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🏟️ Eight venues
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India (5): Ahmedabad, Chennai, New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata
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Sri Lanka (3): Colombo (2), Kandy
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The tournament promises to be one of the most exciting editions yet of cricket’s most explosive format.
🗣️ Jay Shah: ‘A Unifying Journey Beyond Cricket’
ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted the deeper meaning behind the launch:
“Launching the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour above the Ram Setu, a site steeped in history and shared cultural identity, sets an inspiring tone for this landmark event. This tour represents far more than the movement of a trophy—it is a unifying journey that brings continents, cultures and cricketing communities together.”
He added that the Trophy Tour will help fans across the world feel connected to the road to India and Sri Lanka.
🇮🇳 BCCI: Ready to Deliver Another World-Class Event
BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia emphasized India’s hosting credentials:
“India has successfully hosted two 50-over World Cups in the last three years, and we are delighted to welcome fans to yet another world-class event. The launch at Ram Setu perfectly captures the magnitude of the journey ahead.”
He reaffirmed the BCCI’s commitment to delivering outstanding facilities and an unforgettable fan experience.
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka Cricket Welcomes the Global Spotlight
Sri Lanka Cricket President Shammi Silva expressed excitement as co-host:
“This moment signals the start of an exciting journey as we prepare to host fans from across the globe. We are committed to delivering an exceptional tournament experience that reflects the passion of our supporters and the vibrancy of our culture.”
🌍 Trophy Tour to Travel Across Asia
The Trophy Tour with DP World will travel across Asia, including:
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India
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Sri Lanka
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Qatar
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Oman
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Nepal
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Bahrain
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Mongolia
Fans will get the opportunity to see the trophy up close through fan meets, public activations, campus visits and cricket carnivals. In a unique initiative, the trophy will also visit schools and colleges linked to participating players, offering young fans a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The trophy will also be showcased at major T20 leagues and select bilateral series, building anticipation across formats and regions.
🏟️ Official Tournament Venues
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Narendra Modi Stadium – Ahmedabad
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MA Chidambaram Stadium – Chennai
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Arun Jaitley Stadium – New Delhi
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Wankhede Stadium – Mumbai
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Eden Gardens – Kolkata
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R Premadasa Stadium – Colombo
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Sinhalese Sports Club Ground – Colombo
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Pallekele International Cricket Stadium – Kandy
