Details on the qualification process and path for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026
A total of 12 teams—the two host teams, the teams that advanced to the Super Eight round, and the two top-ranked teams in the T20I rankings—were confirmed to play in the next tournament.
Sri Lanka and India were eligible to host. After making it to the Super Eight round, England, South Africa, Afghanistan, Australia, the West Indies, the USA, and Bangladesh were declared qualified.
Ireland (ranked eleventh), Pakistan (7th), and New Zealand (6th) all qualified as top-ranked teams. (Three teams because the host and Super Eight side is typically Team India India).
Nepal finished second in the Asian region qualifying for the 2024 edition. There are two finalist berths available from Asia, so they must again secure a finalist position.
Nepal and Oman, who participated in the T20 World Cup in 2024, will advance directly to the regional final. Malaysia, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates will have to advance from Asia's sub-regional qualifier.
The previous qualifying tournament was held in Nepal; the host for this year's competition has not yet been announced.
