In a nation where cricket transcends mere sport and every delivery resonates deeply, FM Derana has been named the Official Radio Broadcaster for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Sri Lanka. This announcement was made during a media briefing on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the Sea Festival Hall of the Sri Lanka Tourism Board. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is set to take place from 7 February to 8 March 2026, featuring the world’s elite cricket teams in a country that passionately embraces the game.
For FM Derana, this represents a continuation of a transformative journey that reshaped Sri Lanka’s cricket broadcasting landscape. The station made history in 2011 by becoming the first local private radio broadcaster to secure official rights for an ICC World Cup, thereby ending the long-standing government monopoly on live cricket radio broadcasting. This breakthrough paved the way for a more competitive and fan-centric listening experience across the country.
Cricket in Sri Lanka is an omnipresent part of life, followed avidly in buses, tea shops, factory floors, and village verandas, with radios turned up and emotions running high. Reflecting this deep-rooted connection, FM Derana’s coverage aims to deliver every moment of the tournament in a live, immersive format, capturing the vibrant energy that defines Sri Lankan cricket fandom.
The 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will feature 55 matches, with FM Derana ensuring comprehensive islandwide coverage through its 92.2 and 92.4 FM frequencies. These broadcasts will be anchored by some of the country’s most esteemed and experienced commentators, offering not just play-by-play action but also the accompanying narratives, tension, and pride. In addition to live match commentary, FM Derana will provide a variety of radio and digital programming, featuring insights from veteran cricketers and expert coaches to keep fans engaged before, during, and after each game.
The media briefing was attended by senior leadership from the Derana Media Network and Sri Lanka Cricket, along with iconic figures from the sport. Notable attendees included Madhava Madawala, Executive Director/ Chief Operation Officer; Bandula Dissanayake, Secretary – Sri Lanka Cricket; veteran commentator Bandula Saman Waturegama; Bandara Wijeratne, General Manager – Programs of FM Derana; and Roshan Fernando, General Manager – Marketing of FM Derana.
As Sri Lanka prepares to rally once more behind the lion flag, FM Derana’s role as Official Radio Broadcaster ensures that every cheer, heartbreak, and moment of glory will resonate in homes and hearts across the island. For Sri Lankans, cricket is not merely watched; it is lived.
