Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium buzzed with anticipation on Friday as BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia met with the Indian cricket team just hours before their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign kicks off against the USA. Saikia, on a hands-on inspection tour, discussed match preparations and reviewed the venue’s arrangements, including the grand opening ceremony set for Saturday.
The visit underscored the BCCI’s commitment to flawless execution as India, the defending champions from 2024, aim to make history. Saikia shared glimpses of his interactions on social media platform X, capturing moments with captain Suryakumar Yadav, coach Gautam Gambhir, and ground staff. ‘Inspected the final preparations and had discussions with Team India. Also reviewed hosting arrangements for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, starting today at the prestigious Wankhede Stadium,’ he posted.
India enters the tournament with a stellar legacy, having won in 2007 and 2024. A third title would crown them the first nation with three T20 World Cups and the first to defend on home soil. Placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia, and USA, the top two teams advance to Super 8s.
The campaign begins February 7 against USA, followed by Namibia on February 12, a high-stakes Pakistan clash on February 15—shrouded in some uncertainty—and Netherlands on February 18. Fans are electrified, with Suryakumar’s squad poised to dominate. As the stadium gleams under lights, all eyes are on whether India can etch another glorious chapter in cricket history.