Teams competing for a spot in the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup 2024 have an extra incentive: direct qualification for 2026 T20 World Cup. The next T20 World Cup will feature 20 teams, with 12 earning automatic qualification.
These teams are likely to earn direct qualification for 2026 T20 World Cup
Among these automatic qualifiers are the two co-hosts, India and Sri Lanka. India have already secured a spot in the Super Eight, while Sri Lanka are yet to do so. Besides the two hosts, seven other teams reaching the Super Eight of the 2024 edition will also qualify automatically. The remaining three automatic qualifiers will be the highest-ranked teams outside the Super Eight as of June 30, 2024.
This makes a total of 12 automatic qualifiers for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The remaining eight spots will be filled through the ICC’s regional qualifiers pathway. Teams like the USA, needing just one point from their ongoing game against Ireland, are eager to secure their Super Eight berth, despite weather delays in Lauderhill postponing the match. Scotland can also secure their spot by defeating Australia or even by earning one point from their match in Gros Islet, where the weather forecast is clear.
Afghanistan have already secured their place in the Super Eight and for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The competition between the Netherlands and Bangladesh for a spot in the Super Eight continues, with Bangladesh being the favorite. Meanwhile, full members like England, Pakistan, and New Zealand could still qualify based on ICC rankings if they miss the Super Eight.
The first ICC qualifier tournament for 2026, the Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier, begins in Italy. The top eight teams from the Super Eight stage of the 2024 T20 World Cup are guaranteed spots in the 2026 edition, with regional qualifiers determining the final eight teams.
Also, see:
T20 World Cup 2024: Super 8 Scenario for Pakistan, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and England
