ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier 2025/26

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier operates as the regional gateway for teams in Asia and the East Asia-Pacific seeking entry into the global tournament. Established in 2018, the event underwent a significant structural shift for the 2026 cycle, merging the previously distinct Asian and Pacific pathways into a single unified competition to heighten the level of contest. This consolidation ensures that associate members from both regions compete against each other for the most coveted spots in the World Cup.

The 2025 edition, hosted by Oman, brought together nine nations in a format comprising a group stage and a Super Six round-robin. Nepal emerged victorious, securing the top position and direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup alongside Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These three teams bypassed the Global Qualifier entirely, a privilege reserved for the top finishers in this regional pyramid. The tournament serves as the primary route for associate members in these regions, sitting below the main World Cup and the Global Qualifier in the hierarchy.

Historically, the Asia Qualifier has seen Singapore claim victory in 2019 and Oman triumph in 2023. While the current structure provides direct access for the leading teams, the winner of the regional contest for the 2028 cycle will instead progress to the Global Qualifier. The competition remains a critical component of the ICC’s qualification framework, offering associate nations a chance to compete at a high level and potentially step onto the world stage. The presence of teams like Japan, Kuwait, and Papua New Guinea highlights the growing interest and participation in cricket across the EAP region.