India’s former captain Rohit Sharma has been appointed the tournament ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, marking yet another milestone in the storied career of one of the format’s most accomplished players.

The announcement was made ahead of the event, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March 2026.

According to the ICC statement issued yesterday, Rohit’s association with the tournament comes as a natural extension of his legacy in T20 cricket. He famously led India to glory at the 2024 edition, where the Men in Blue lifted the T20 World Cup after an 11-year wait for an ICC title. His appointment celebrates both his achievements as a player and his enduring influence on the global T20 landscape.

Rohit’s T20I career stands among the finest in the world, with 4231 runs at an average of 32.01 and a strike-rate of 140.89. He also remains one of the very few players to have been part of two T20 World Cup-winning squads—first in the historic inaugural tournament in 2007, and then again in 2024 when he captained India to the championship.

His journey began in spectacular fashion in 2007, a debut tournament where he accumulated 88 runs without being dismissed, producing memorable innings including an unbeaten 50 against South Africa in the Super Eights and a crucial 30* in the final against Pakistan.

The 2024 campaign, however, became symbolic of his leadership and batting excellence. Leading from the front, he scored 257 runs at a strike-rate of 156.70, delivering blistering starts that consistently gave India early momentum. His standout knocks included a fearless 92 off 41 balls against Australia and a composed 57 off 39 in the semi-final against England. Soon after securing the title, Rohit announced his retirement from T20Is, closing the chapter on a format he helped redefine.

Speaking on his new role, Rohit said, “It is great to have the tournament back in India and for me to be associated once again with the tournament, this time in a new capacity as the Brand Ambassador. I wish all the players the very best and hope they have a memorable time and enjoy India’s hospitality while taking back a lot of memories.”

As preparations intensify for the 2026 edition, Rohit’s presence as ambassador brings a familiar and celebrated face to an event that remains one of cricket’s most anticipated global spectacles.