T20 World Cup 2026: Fans Turn Out In Huge Numbers Across India’s Cricketing Centres

The ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has highlighted India’s unparalleled love for cricket, with fans turning out in huge numbers across major cricketing centres. While India matches traditionally draw packed stadiums, this edition has seen equally strong attendance for neutral fixtures, underscoring the sport’s deep cultural resonance.  

In Chennai, Chepauk has averaged nearly 20,000 fans per game, even without hosting an India fixture yet. The New Zealand vs Afghanistan clash drew close to 25,000 spectators, while the USA vs Netherlands evening game saw 19,000 fans filling the stands. Similarly, Kolkata’s Eden Gardens and Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium have witnessed strong crowds, brushing aside concerns of low turnout for non-India matches.  

Key highlights from the fan turnout include  

• Chennai’s Chepauk averaging 20,000 fans per game, with peak attendance of 24,991 for NZ vs AFG  
• Delhi saw packed stands even during South Africa vs UAE despite inclement weather  
• Kolkata’s Eden Gardens drew strong crowds for neutral fixtures, reinforcing tournament buzz  
• India vs Pakistan clash broke records with 454 million viewers across platforms  
• Fans across India showing support not just for India but for all teams, making neutral games vibrant  

Industry observers note that the turnout reflects India’s evolving cricket culture, where fans are embracing the global nature of the sport. The packed stadiums and record-breaking viewership figures highlight India’s role as the heartbeat of world cricket, ensuring the T20 World Cup remains a festival beyond borders.  

Sources: Firstpost, News18, India Today