3 associate nations that should host India for T20Is next

India vs UAE. (Photo source: BCCI)

India played a one-off T20I against Japan on September 22, 2026, underlining the growing appetite for bilateral fixtures between India and associate nations. Such matches offer associate sides a rare chance to test themselves against the best in the world.

With the 2026 T20 World Cup now concluded, several associate nations have shown they are ready to step up and host a marquee fixture. Here are three nations that make a compelling case to welcome India for a T20I.

Here are top 3 associate nations who can host India in T20Is:

3. United States of America

The United States qualified for the 2026 T20 World Cup on the back of their performance in the 2024 edition of the tournament. Although they were eliminated at the group stage in Group A, alongside Namibia and the Netherlands, their presence at consecutive World Cups reflects steady progress as a cricketing nation.

India and the USA met during the 2026 T20 World Cup, giving both sides recent competitive experience against each other. A large Indian diaspora is present across the United States, and Indian investors along with the ICC have played a significant role in developing cricket there. A bilateral T20I on American soil would draw enormous interest from that community and help grow the sport further in the country.

2. Nepal

Nepal qualified for the 2026 T20 World Cup through the Asia and East Asia-Pacific regional qualifier and were placed in Group C alongside Italy and Scotland, though they were eliminated at the group stage. Their squad, captained by Rohit Paudel, featured prominent names such as Sandeep Lamichhane, Dipendra Singh Airee and Kushal Bhurtel.

Nepal put in a spirited performance against England at the 2026 T20 World Cup, falling marginally short of victory. Fan passion for cricket in Nepal is exceptional, and hosting India in a T20I could significantly boost cricket coverage and viewership in the country.

1. Namibia

Namibia qualified for the 2026 T20 World Cup through the Africa regional qualifier and were placed in Group A, where they were eliminated alongside the United States and the Netherlands. Their squad, captained by Gerhard Erasmus, included experienced players such as Zane Green, Bernard Scholtz, Ruben Trumpelmann, JJ Smit and Jan Frylinck.

Namibia demonstrated their hosting credentials by staging a T20I Tri-Nation Series starting August 28, 2026, which South Africa won, and a separate ODI series against South Africa starting September 9, 2026, which South Africa won 3-0. A T20I against India would represent a significant step forward for Namibian cricket and raise the profile of the game in the country.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.