The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour officially began spectacularly and symbolically over Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge), marking a historic start to the build-up for cricket’s biggest T20 event.
The launch created a strong visual and emotional connection between the two host nations, India and Sri Lanka, who will jointly stage the tournament next year.
In a first-of-its-kind moment, the iconic T20 World Cup trophy was lifted into the sky using a two-seater paramotor, flying over the limestone chain of Ram Setu.
The dramatic aerial launch, set against the vast Indian Ocean, delivered breathtaking visuals and highlighted the global ambition of the tournament.
Why Ram Setu Was Chosen for the Trophy Tour Launch
Ram Setu in India, Adam’s Bridge, holds immense religious, historical, and cultural importance. Geographically, it connects India and Sri Lanka, making it a perfect representation of unity and collaboration.
Since both nations are co-hosting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the ICC chose this iconic location to underline the tournament’s theme of connection through cricket.
According to the ICC, the Trophy Tour is not merely a promotional activity but a symbolic journey designed to bring fans, cultures, and cricketing communities together across continents.
Jay Shah Highlights the Spirit of Unity
ICC Chairman Jay Shah described the launch as a powerful message ahead of the landmark tournament.
“This tour represents far more than the physical movement of a trophy. It is a unifying journey that brings continents, cultures, and cricketing communities together.“
He further added that the ICC wants fans around the world to feel connected to the road leading to India and Sri Lanka, with every stop of the tour building excitement and anticipation.
Trophy Tour to Travel Across Asia
As part of the T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour, the trophy will visit multiple Asian nations, allowing millions of fans to witness it up close and engage with cricket celebrations.
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| South Asia | India, Sri Lanka, Nepal |
| Middle East | Qatar, Oman, Bahrain |
| East Asia | Mongolia |
The tour will feature fan meets, public events, college visits, campus activations, and cricket carnivals, especially in emerging cricket nations, helping the ICC expand the game’s reach.
The tour will feature fan meets, public events, college visits, campus activations, and cricket carnivals, especially in emerging cricket nations, helping the ICC expand the game’s reach.
Special Focus on Schools and Colleges
In a unique initiative, the trophy will also travel to schools and colleges, offering young fans a rare opportunity to connect with global cricket. Additionally, the trophy will be showcased during major T20 leagues and select bilateral series, further amplifying excitement ahead of the tournament.
T20 World Cup 2026: Key Tournament Details
The 10th edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will feature 20 teams, competing over 29 days of high-intensity cricket from 7 February to 8 March 2026.
Tournament Venues:
| Country | Stadiums |
|---|---|
| India | Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata |
| Sri Lanka | Colombo (2 venues), Kandy |
India-Pakistan Clash on 15 February
The ICC released the tournament schedule on 25 November, confirming several high-profile matches. India will face Pakistan on 15 February, one of the most anticipated clashes of the tournament. India will also play matches against the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands during the group stage.
