ICC Revives Men’s T20 Champions League

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has opted to reinstate the men’s T20 Champions League, with plans for the tournament to commence in September 2026, according to recent reports.

The decision to resurrect the event was reportedly made during the ICC’s annual assembly held recently in Singapore.

The proposition garnered backing from multiple prominent ICC member nations, signifying substantial headway toward the revival of the competition, which was last contested in 2014.

Reports indicate that Saudi Arabia is expected to offer monetary assistance to the revamped league. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is under consideration as a potential location for upcoming editions, demonstrating its increasing engagement and investment in international sports.

A significant logistical hurdle that remains is determining the representation of club or franchise players, particularly given the proliferation of domestic T20 leagues globally.

As per proposed guidelines, players may be authorized to engage in a minimum of two and a maximum of five franchise leagues per year.

The T20 Champions League was initially established in 2008 through a cooperative effort involving the cricket boards of India, Australia, and South Africa.

The competition persisted until 2014 but was ultimately suspended after its commercial partner reportedly withdrew due to considerable financial setbacks.

While the structural and financial underpinnings of the restored league are yet to be concluded, deliberations are ongoing.

Notably, the league’s final iteration featured four teams representing India, two each from South Africa and Australia, and one team each from Pakistan, New Zealand, and the West Indies. The tournament has been dormant since then.