Windhoek: Namibia has been drawn against host nation and reigning world champions, India, in Group A of the 10th edition of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20 World Cup. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will feature 20 teams competing for top honours over 29 days, with six sides in action on opening day, 07 February 2026.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Namibia, making their fourth appearance at the Men's T20 World Cup, find themselves in a high-profile group that includes three test-playing nations - India, Pakistan, and the Netherlands - as well as the United States. The Eagles are expected to face a stern challenge against India, a fixture that will undoubtedly be one of the toughest tests for a Namibian side that continues to strengthen its international standing in recent years.
The competition will be staged across eight venues: five in India: Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, and Eden Gardens in Kolkata; and three in Sri Lanka, namely Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium and Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, and the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.
A total of 40 group matches will be played from 07 to 20 February 2025, after which the top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Eights stage beginning on 21 February. The four best sides from the Super Eights will qualify for the knockout phase, with semi-finals scheduled for Kolkata or Colombo and Mumbai. The final will take place on 8 March in either Ahmedabad or Colombo.
Group A is expected to draw significant global interest, particularly with India set for a high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals Pakistan on 15 February in Colombo. For Namibia, navigating a group featuring both established cricket powerhouses and emerging nations presents a formidable yet motivating challenge.
In the remaining groups, hosts Sri Lanka lead Group B alongside 2021 champions Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman. Group C brings together two-time champions England and the West Indies, along with Bangladesh, Nepal, and tournament debutants Italy. Group D includes New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates.