INTERNATIONAL CRICKET COUNCIL (ICC) and Google have extended their partnership by announcing two new agreements for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Under the deal, Google Gemini has been named the Official AI Fan Companion, while Google Pixel will serve as the Official Smartphone for the tournament, which is set to begin in India and Sri Lanka on 7 February.
The collaboration aims to introduce new, AI-driven fan experiences throughout the T20 World Cup. Google Gemini will act as a creative companion, helping fans interpret and engage with the game, while Google Pixel will power unique, in-stadium activations and experiences.
As part of the initiative, fans will be able to take part in the Google Gemini ‘Craziest Fan Kaun’ contest. The campaign will allow participants to use Gemini’s image-generation tools, powered by Nano Banana, to design and share personalised ‘Crazy Fan’ avatars.
Selected winners will have the chance to enjoy an exclusive stadium experience, attending an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match in person while wearing the custom, AI-designed outfits they created.
ICC chief executive Sanjog Gupta said, “This partnership brings together two global organisations united by consumer focus, scale, purpose and innovation. Google’s leadership in connection, search & discovery and AI, aligns strongly with the ICC’s ambition to serve fans better, delivering phygital experiences across touchpoints. Together, we will use technology to deepen engagement, enhance experiences and make cricket more accessible and meaningful for fans worldwide.”
Google India VP marketing Shekar Khosla added, “We were thrilled to witness firsthand during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 how AI can enhance and delight the fan experience. Now, as we strengthen our partnership with the ICC for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, we are bringing together Gemini’s generative capabilities and Pixel’s advanced imaging to deliver features that empower fans with new avenues for creativity and celebration. We are excited to see how these innovations help a new generation of digital-first fans celebrate the spirit of cricket.”
