Champions League T20 (CLT20) Set for a Blockbuster Comeback in 2026
The Champions League T20 (CLT20) is making a thrilling return in 2026 after a decade-long hiatus. Here’s everything you need to know about the revival, format, teams, and fan expectations.
A Decade Later, the Champions Return
After nearly a decade of silence, the Champions League T20 (CLT20) is officially making a comeback in 2026, reviving memories of electrifying inter-league cricket battles. The league, which had its final edition in 2014, is being relaunched by a joint venture between the BCCI, Cricket Australia (CA), and Cricket South Africa (CSA) with the full backing of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
CLT20 was once the ultimate battleground for domestic T20 champions from top leagues like the IPL, Big Bash, and Caribbean Premier League. And now, it’s all set to relaunch with a renewed format, extended media rights, and the biggest T20 names from around the globe.
What We Know So Far
🗓 Launch Year: 2026
🏟 Host Countries: India, South Africa & UAE (rotating model)
👕 Participating Teams: 12 (from IPL, BBL, PSL, CPL, SA20, ILT20, and more)
📺 Broadcast Rights: Multi-network deal underway
💰 Prize Pool: Estimated USD 15 Million
This time, the CLT20 won’t just be a short tournament squeezed between international schedules. Instead, it will take place over four weeks in September, with a clear window reserved in the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP).
A Fresh Format, Global Appeal
The format is expected to feature:
- Four groups of three teams each
- Top 2 from each group advancing to the Super Eight
- Followed by semi-finals and a grand finale
There will also be a wildcard entry spot for an emerging league champion, bringing newer cricketing nations into the spotlight.
The return is timed perfectly as T20 cricket is at its global peak. With leagues booming across the globe, CLT20 aims to crown the true global champion of domestic T20 cricket once again.
Players and Fans React
Fans across the world have expressed massive excitement at the return. Former CLT20 players like Suresh Raina, Kieron Pollard, and David Warner took to social media, calling it the “T20 World Cup for franchises.”
Young talents are equally thrilled. Rising stars from SA20 and the PSL see it as an opportunity to gain global exposure. Indian fans, especially, are hopeful of seeing a potential MI vs CSK final, or even fantasy clashes like KKR vs Lahore Qalandars.
Why It Was Cancelled, and Why It’s Back
The original CLT20 struggled with:
- Poor viewership outside India
- Overloaded cricket calendar
- Conflicting sponsor interests
However, the landscape has drastically changed. With streaming platforms, global fanbases, and franchised T20 leagues ruling the cricket economy, there is now a massive market for a tournament like CLT20.
What Lies Ahead
This relaunch will be watched closely. The success of CLT20 2026 could set a new benchmark in franchise cricket history, offering fans what they crave the most—cross-league rivalries, superstar clashes, and thrilling finales.
It’s not just a comeback. It’s a T20 revolution reborn.