Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 trophy reaches alma maters of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup recently brought together the alma maters of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson as part of the ‘Class of 26’ initiative, a special series designed to celebrate the early journeys of today’s World Cup stars and inspire young students across the country during the Trophy Tour.

The ‘Class of 26’ campaign focuses on taking the iconic World Cup trophy back to the institutions where the players’ cricketing dreams first began. The initiative highlights the ambition of the Indian team to defend the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title on home soil and return the trophy to the very places that shaped their careers, where their talent was first recognised and their confidence built.

By reconnecting the trophy with the players’ formative years, the campaign honours their journey from school playgrounds to the international stage, reminding students that every successful sporting career begins with a dream. The visits turn the trophy into more than just a symbol of global achievement — they make it a reflection of future possibilities.

The ‘Class of 26’ also showcases the long and demanding road behind every World Cup appearance, highlighting the discipline, dedication and perseverance required to reach the highest level of the sport. Through interactive and engaging activities, the campaign aims to motivate young fans, spark excitement and build anticipation for the upcoming global tournament.

At each of the three institutions, the trophy was welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour. Students participated in fun activities with tournament mascots Blaze and Tonk, and took part in interactive games and challenges. Winners received ICC Men’s T20 World Cup merchandise, creating a lively and memorable experience on campus.

The first stop of the tour was MK High School in Vadodara, where Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya studied. The event was attended by Principal Vinaya Tulasi and Director Subhash Pandya.

The tour then moved to the College of Commerce in Patna, where wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan pursued his education. The visit was attended by Vice Principal M Faizal, Sports In-charge K.B. Padmadeo, and faculty members Mukesh Kumar Madhukar, Prof. Mridula Kumari, Manisha Roy, Ayan Mukherjee and Satyam Kumar.

The third visit took place at Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram, where Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson studied. The programme was held in the presence of Principal Meera George and faculty members including Bursar Fr. Thomas Kaiyaleckal, Tom Thomas, Jiji Kurian, Ratheesh R and Deepa Mary Joseph.

During the visit, students at Mar Ivanios College added a personal and creative touch by arranging ‘post-it’ notes to spell out Sanju Samson’s name on a backdrop and writing messages for him, reflecting the strong emotional bond between players and their roots.

The tour will continue with visits to the former educational institutions of other squad members, sharing stories of ambition that began in classrooms and playgrounds and led to success on the world stage.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held from February 7 to March 8 across venues in India and Sri Lanka, including Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.