A Look Back at the History of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup began a new era in cricket when India won the inaugural edition held in South Africa in 2007. What started as an experimental format has now completed nine editions and is approaching its 10th tournament in 2026. From its early days to becoming one of the most popular formats in world cricket, the T20 World Cup has grown significantly in scale, competition, and global reach.

The first edition featured 12 teams, while the upcoming 10th edition in 2026 will include 20 teams from across the world. So far, six different countries have won the title. West Indies, England, and defending champions India have each lifted the trophy twice, while Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Australia have won it once. The rapid rise of T20 cricket in the 21st century has reshaped the sport, attracting new audiences with its fast-paced and simplified format.

The 2007 World Cup produced unforgettable moments that helped establish T20 cricket globally. West Indies’ Chris Gayle scored the format’s first century, while Yuvraj Singh’s six sixes in an over against Stuart Broad became iconic. India’s dramatic final victory over Pakistan, sealed after Misbah-ul-Haq’s failed scoop shot, marked a historic milestone. Pakistan bounced back in 2009 to win the title, followed by England’s maiden limited-overs World Cup win in 2010. West Indies claimed their first title in 2012, Sri Lanka won in 2014, and West Indies lifted the trophy again in 2016 after Carlos Brathwaite’s four consecutive sixes in the final over.

Australia won their first T20 World Cup in 2021, while England claimed their second title in 2022, becoming simultaneous ODI and T20 world champions. The 2024 edition, expanded to 20 teams, saw debut appearances from the USA, Canada, and Uganda. The United States stunned Pakistan, Afghanistan reached the semifinals for the first time, and India defeated South Africa by seven runs in the final, powered by Virat Kohli’s 76 and Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling. Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired from international T20 cricket after the win.

The 2026 T20 World Cup, to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will see Italy make its debut, while Nepal will feature for the third time. Nepal, placed in Group C alongside England, West Indies, Italy, and Scotland, will aim to reach the Super 8 stage, where the top two teams from each group advance. A victory over traditional powerhouses like England or West Indies would mark a historic achievement for Nepal.

Group A: India, Pakistan, United States, Netherlands, Namibia
Group B: Australia, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe, Oman
Group C: England, West Indies, Nepal, Italy, Scotland
Group D: New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Canada, UAE