- 30 European nations to enter Sub-Regional Qualification stage, competing across three events
- Cyprus to host its first ICC T20 World Cup pathway event, and first ICC event since 2009
- Denmark to host first ICC senior event after successful delivery of an U19 Europe Qualifier in 2024
- Finland return to host another Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier, building on the legacy of hosting two ICC events in 2022
The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced the Europe qualification pathway for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028, featuring three regional events to be staged across Cyprus, Denmark and Finland in 2026.
As cricket continues its rapid growth throughout Europe, these pathway tournaments will provide emerging and established nations with a crucial opportunity to compete for the ultimate prize and move one step closer to securing a spot at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028.
The 2026 events will bring international T20 cricket to three vibrant host nations, each offering the chance to introduce the game to new audiences in their respective territories and leverage the opportunities afforded by hosting tournament cricket.
The qualification structure will see Europe’s 30 competing teams divided across the three events, with the top-performing sides progressing to the next phase of qualification.
England, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands will enter the pathway at a later stage, owing to their participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup next year.
Commenting on the announcement, Andy Wright, ICC’s Regional Development Manager – Europe said: “The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2028 pathway will showcase the tremendous depth and development of cricket across Europe.
“We are delighted to partner with Cyprus, Denmark and Finland as hosts—three nations that have demonstrated strong commitment to growing the game. These events will deliver high-quality cricket and provide players with invaluable international experience.”
2026 Events:
- Qualifier A | Cyprus | 16 – 23 May 2026 | Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Guernsey, Jersey, Malta, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland
- Qualifier B | Denmark | 8 – 15 July 2026 | Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Gibraltar, Hungary, Norway, Romania, Scotland, Serbia, Türkiye
- Qualifier C | Finland | 14 – 21 August 2026 | Bulgaria, Czechia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Isle of Man, Israel, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain
Further information relating to fixtures, venues and match start times will be announced after the conclusion of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup in March next year.
