India will play extra T20 matches during their Sri Lanka tour in August 2026, alongside the scheduled Test series. This decision has been taken to support Sri Lanka after the severe damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The move is seen as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity towards India's neighbouring country.
Sri Lanka Cricket Chairman Shammi Silva confirmed the development. He said the additional T20 matches will be organised when India tours Sri Lanka for the Test series. According to him, India's willingness to play extra matches shows strong support for Sri Lanka during a difficult period of recovery.
India's support to Sri Lanka
Shammi Silva revealed that India had earlier agreed to play two T20 matches in Sri Lanka in December 2025 to raise funds for cyclone relief. However, the plan could not go ahead due to time constraints and the unavailability of a broadcast partner.
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"India was interested in coming to play two T20 matches at the end of December for fundraising, but it wasn't possible due to a lack of time, especially as no broadcast partner could be found," Silva said. The idea has now been revived and included in India's 2026 tour plan.
India's busy cricket schedule in 2026
Team India will have a packed international calendar in 2026. The year will begin with a three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting on January 11. This will be followed by a five-match T20 series against the same team, which will help India prepare to defend their T20 World Cup title in February and March.
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In July, India will tour England to play five T20 matches and three ODIs. The Sri Lanka tour in August, featuring Test matches and additional T20s, will add another important chapter to India's demanding cricket season.
