URGENT UPDATE: India and Pakistan have been drawn in the same group for the upcoming T20 World Cup, intensifying excitement among cricket fans worldwide. The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the groups and schedule earlier today, confirming that the South Asian rivals will face off in Colombo on February 15, 2024.
The group stage features 20 nations divided into four groups of five teams each. The tournament kicks off on February 7, with India opening its campaign in Mumbai against the United States. The defending champions will also play Namibia and the Netherlands before their highly anticipated match against Pakistan.
The match between India and Pakistan will take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, one of three venues in Sri Lanka for this mega event. Pakistan begins its tournament against the Netherlands on the same day as India, February 7, before taking on the United States, India, and Namibia.
The tournament runs from February 7 to March 8, 2024, utilizing the same format as the previous edition held in the United States and the West Indies. The top two teams from each of the four groups will advance to the Super Eight stage, setting the stage for thrilling knockout rounds.
Should India progress to the Super Eight, they will compete in Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Kolkata, with the semifinals slated to take place in Mumbai. If Pakistan qualifies, the final could be held in Colombo, adding another layer of intensity to the rivalry.
India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, who recently retired from T20 internationals, has been appointed as the tournament ambassador. He expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating,
“I wish all the players the very best and hope they have a memorable time and enjoy India’s hospitality while taking back a lot of memories.”
With Italy making its debut in a major cricketing event, placed in Group C alongside England, West Indies, Bangladesh, and Nepal, the stage is set for an exhilarating T20 World Cup. Fans are eager to see how this tournament unfolds, especially the clash between India and Pakistan, which promises to be a highlight of the month-long competition.
Stay tuned for more updates as the tournament approaches!