The ICC has changed the venue for the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2026. Whether Pakistan plays or not, if Sri Lanka reaches the semi-finals, the first semi-final will now be held in Colombo instead of Kolkata.
Key Changes
According to media reports, the ICC has made changes to the November schedule. Now, depending on Pakistan and Sri Lanka’s qualification, the semi-final venue will change.
If Sri Lanka qualifies for the semi-finals:
- They can play their semi-final at home ground under specific conditions
- Their opponent must not be India
- Pakistan must not qualify
If these conditions are met, Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium will host the first semi-final instead of Kolkata.
Different Scenarios
Scenario 1 – Pakistan Qualifies:
- Semi-Final 1 will be in Colombo on March 4
- Pakistan will not play in India
Scenario 2 – Sri Lanka Qualifies (Pakistan doesn’t):
- If Sri Lanka’s opponent is not India
- Semi-Final will be in Colombo
- Sri Lanka gets home advantage
Scenario 3 – Neither Pakistan nor Sri Lanka Qualify:
- Semi-Final 1 in Kolkata
- Semi-Final 2 in Mumbai
Scenario 4 – India Qualifies:
- India will play in Mumbai regardless of opponent
- Exception: If opponent is Pakistan, match moves to Colombo
Scenario 5 – India vs Pakistan Semi-Final:
- Match will be in Colombo (neutral venue)
- Not in India due to Pakistan’s stance
Important Note
Pakistan and Sri Lanka cannot meet in semi-finals because both teams are in Super 8 Group 2.
ICC Communication
The ICC sent details to all stakeholders stating:
- Semi-Final 1 has a “floating arrangement”
- It will be in either Colombo or Kolkata
- Depends on which teams qualify
Final Details
Semi-Final 1: March 4, 2026
- Colombo (if Pakistan or Sri Lanka qualify under conditions)
- Kolkata (if neither qualifies)
Semi-Final 2: March 5, 2026
- Mumbai (if India qualifies)
Final: March 8, 2026
- Ahmedabad (original venue)
- Colombo (if Pakistan reaches the final)
