Here are the must-see cricket matches of 2026 for NJ fans and beyond
Cricket enthusiasts across North Jersey have a landmark year ahead, with a packed 2026 international calendar featuring premier tournaments and high-stakes bilateral series across multiple formats. The global schedule offers local fans—many hailing from cricket-passionate nations like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka—extensive viewing opportunities, primarily via Willow TV and its digital platform.
Key Fixtures for 2026:
India vs. New Zealand (Men's Series): A multi-format clash in India from January 11–31, featuring three ODIs and five T20Is. This marks their first meeting since India's victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final.
Australia vs. India (Women's Series): A highly anticipated tour in Australia from February 15 to March 9, comprising one Test, three T20Is, and three ODIs. This series renews a fierce rivalry following India’s historic win over Australia in the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup semifinals.
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup: Co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. The 20-team tournament will see defending champion India, runner-up South Africa, the United States, and debutant Italy among the contenders.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup: Held in England and Wales from June 12 to July 5. Twelve teams will compete, with 2024 champion New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, and the West Indies among the favorites.
Asian Games (Japan): Cricket returns as a medal sport from September 19 to October 4, with 15 nations competing in the T20 format. India’s men’s and women’s teams will defend the gold medals they won in 2022.
Cricket 101: Understanding the Basics
For newcomers, cricket is a bat-and-ball game where the bowling team aims to dismiss batters by hitting the wicket (three stumps and two bails) behind them. The central playing strip is the pitch, with creases marking the batter's and bowler's areas. Bowling is done in sets of six deliveries called overs. Batters score runs by hitting the ball into the field, with matches structured in innings. Game duration varies from hours (T20) to days (Test matches), appealing to a wide range of viewing preferences.
With local participation thriving in leagues like the New Jersey Premier Cricket League, and major international events accessible via broadcast, 2026 is poised to be a standout year for the sport's growing community in the region.
