The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is here, and for millions of cricket fans across India, the JioHotstar app has become the ultimate destination for live cricket streaming. With the tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka running from February 7 to March 8, knowing how to watch live cricket on JioHotstar app is essential to catch every ball, six, and wicket . This comprehensive guide covers everything from downloading the app and subscription plans to free streaming options via telecom partners and tips for uninterrupted viewing.
Why JioHotstar is the Best Cricket Live Streaming App
Following the historic merger that created JioStar, the platform has become the official digital broadcast partner for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India . The JioHotstar app and website hold the exclusive digital rights to stream all 55 matches of the tournament, making it the definitive cricket live streaming app for the subcontinent .
What sets JioHotstar apart is its commitment to delivering an immersive viewing experience. Every fixture is available in five primary languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada across their TV and digital coverage . Going a step further, the platform provides additional regional feeds in Bengali, Bhojpuri, and Haryanvi on JioHotstar. For all matches featuring the Indian cricket team, the high-stakes semi-finals, and the grand final, coverage is also available in Marathi and Indian Sign Language, ensuring inclusivity for fans from every corner of the country .
How to Download and Install JioHotstar App
Getting started with live cricket streaming on JioHotstar is simple. Follow these steps to download the app on your preferred device:
For Android Users
- Open the Google Play Store on your smartphone or tablet
- Search for “JioHotstar” or “JioHotstar app”
- Click on Install to download the app
- Once installed, open the app and proceed to sign up or log in
For iOS Users
- Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone or iPad
- Search for “JioHotstar” in the search bar
- Tap Get to download and install the app
- After installation, launch the app and create your account or sign in
For Desktop Users
If you prefer watching on a larger screen, you can access JioHotstar live match streaming directly through your web browser:
- Visit the official JioHotstar website (hotstar.com)
- Click on the Sign In button at the top right corner
- Enter your credentials or create a new account
- Navigate to the Sports or Cricket section to find live matches
JioHotstar Subscription Plans for T20 World Cup 2026
To enjoy live cricket streaming on JioHotstar, you need an active subscription. The platform offers various plans tailored to different viewing preferences. Note that JioHotstar implemented a price hike effective January 28, 2026, just before the World Cup .
Current JioHotstar Subscription Plans
| Plan Type | Price | Features | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Plan | ₹299 | Smartphone-only access, SD quality | 3 months |
| Super Annual Plan | ₹1,099 | Ad-free HD streaming on mobile, laptop, TV | 12 months |
| Premium Annual Plan | ₹2,199 | 4K streaming, family sharing, all content | 12 months |
| Monthly Mobile Plan | ₹79 | Smartphone-only access | 30 days |
| Monthly Super Plan | ₹299 | HD streaming on all devices | 30 days |
| Monthly Premium Plan | ₹499 | 4K streaming, family sharing | 30 days |
Key Points:
- The Mobile Plan remains unchanged in pricing, offering relief for smartphone-only users
- Monthly plans are newly introduced for users who want short-term access for specific events like the T20 World Cup
- A stable internet connection of at least 5 Mbps is recommended for uninterrupted HD viewing
Free JioHotstar Live Streaming via Telecom Partners
One of the most exciting developments for the T20 World Cup 2026 is the partnership between JioHotstar and major telecom operators. Fans can now enjoy T20 World Cup free streaming through bundled prepaid plans from Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) . These plans provide JioHotstar Mobile access at no additional cost beyond the recharge itself.
Jio Recharge Plans with JioHotstar Mobile Access
| Plan | Data | Validity | JioHotstar Access | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ₹100 | 5GB | 30 days | 30-day Mobile subscription | Data add-on |
| ₹195 | 15GB | 90 days | 90-day Mobile subscription | Data add-on |
Note: These are data-only add-on packs and require an active base plan to function .
Vi Recharge Plans with JioHotstar Mobile Access
| Plan | Data | Validity | JioHotstar Access | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ₹44 | 1GB | 1 day | 30-day Mobile subscription | Data add-on |
| ₹101 | 5GB | 30 days | 30-day Mobile subscription | Data add-on |
| ₹151 | 4GB | 90 days | 90-day Mobile subscription | Data add-on |
| ₹169 | 8GB | 90 days | 90-day Mobile subscription | Data add-on |
The Rs 44 pack is the cheapest way to unlock JioHotstar access, offering 1GB of data for one day plus a 30-day subscription .
Airtel Recharge Plans with JioHotstar Mobile Access
| Plan | Data | Validity | JioHotstar Access | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ₹100 | 6GB | 30 days | 30-day Mobile subscription | Requires active base plan |
| ₹195 | 12GB | 30 days | 30-day Mobile subscription | Airtel Xstream Play access |
These prepaid offers mark a significant shift in how live cricket is delivered in India, moving viewers from television to mobile screens while keeping costs modest .
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Watch Live Cricket on JioHotstar App
Once you have your subscription or eligible telecom plan ready, follow these steps to start watching live cricket streaming:
Step 1: Launch the JioHotstar App
Open the app on your mobile device or visit the website on your desktop. Make sure you have a stable internet connection .
Step 2: Sign In to Your Account
- If you have a JioHotstar subscription, enter your registered mobile number and OTP
- If you have activated a telecom plan with bundled access, use the same mobile number linked to your recharge
Step 3: Navigate to Live Cricket
- Go to the Sports section or directly to the Cricket tab
- Look for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 banner or section
- All ongoing and upcoming matches will be displayed
Step 4: Select Your Match
Click on the live match you want to watch. For India matches, you’ll see options for multiple language feeds .
Step 5: Choose Your Viewing Experience
JioHotstar offers innovative features to enhance your live cricket viewing:
- Vertical Live Feed: Available in English and Hindi for mobile-first audiences
- 360-Degree View: Experience the match from different angles
- Multi-Cam Feature: Switch between Hero, Stump, Battery, and Field view vantage points
- Multi-Language Commentary: Select your preferred language from the settings
Step 6: Enjoy the Match
Sit back and enjoy uninterrupted live cricket streaming of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Key Matches to Watch on JioHotstar
The T20 World Cup 2026 schedule features several high-profile encounters that every cricket fan should mark on their calendar :
India’s Group Stage Matches
- India vs USA: February 7 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai (Opening fixture)
- India vs Namibia: February 12
- India vs Pakistan: February 15 at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo (7:00 PM IST)
- India vs Netherlands: February 18
Knockout Stages
- Super 8 Phase: February 21 to March 1
- Semi-Finals: March 4 and 5
- Final: March 8 at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad (or Colombo if Pakistan qualifies)
The India vs Pakistan clash on February 15 is expected to break all viewership records, and fans can watch India vs Pakistan live streaming on JioHotstar with multiple language options .
JioHotstar App Features for T20 World Cup 2026
The JioHotstar live match experience goes beyond basic streaming. Here are the standout features available for the T20 World Cup:
Multi-Language Commentary
Every match is available in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada on TV and digital platforms. Additional regional feeds in Bengali, Bhojpuri, and Haryanvi are available exclusively on JioHotstar .
Interactive Viewing Options
- 360 View: Rotate the camera angle for a unique perspective
- Multi-Cam: Switch between different camera angles including stump cam and field view
Match Replays and Highlights
Missed a live match? JioHotstar provides full match replays and condensed highlights shortly after the game ends. You can also access live cricket score updates within the app .
Download for Offline Viewing
Premium subscribers can download matches and highlights to watch later without an internet connection .
How to Watch JioHotstar Outside India
JioHotstar is regionally limited to India due to broadcasting rights. If you are traveling abroad or living outside India, you cannot access the platform directly .
Using a VPN to Access JioHotstar from Anywhere
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows you to bypass these geo-restrictions by masking your real IP address and providing an Indian IP address .
Steps to watch JioHotstar from abroad:
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN service (such as PureVPN)
- Download and install the VPN app on your device
- Connect to an Indian server
- Open the JioHotstar app or website
- You will now have full access to live cricket streaming as if you were in India
Alternative Ways to Watch T20 World Cup 2026
While JioHotstar is the primary digital platform in India, there are other ways to catch the action:
TV Broadcast on Star Sports
For traditional TV viewers, the tournament is broadcast live on the Star Sports Network, the official television broadcaster for ICC events in India .
Star Sports Channels:
- Star Sports 1 / Star Sports 1 HD (English)
- Star Sports 1 Hindi / Star Sports 1 Hindi HD
- Star Sports 1 Tamil
- Star Sports 1 Telugu
- Star Sports 1 Kannada
Free-to-Air on DD Sports
Fans looking for a cricket live streaming app free alternative can tune in to Doordarshan Sports (DD Sports) for:
- All Team India matches
- Semi-finals
- Final
DD Sports is available on DD Free Dish and requires no subscription .
ICC.tv for International Viewers
For fans in territories not covered by major broadcasters, ICC.tv provides live and free streaming of all matches with multi-language commentary options .
Tips for the Best Live Cricket Streaming Experience
To ensure you never miss a moment of the T20 World Cup 2026 on JioHotstar, follow these tips:
Internet Connection Requirements
- HD Streaming: Minimum 5 Mbps recommended
- SD Streaming: Minimum 2 Mbps
- Mobile Data Saving: Enable data saver mode in app settings
Best Times to Watch
Peak viewing hours are during India matches, especially the India vs Pakistan clash. Start streaming 10-15 minutes early to avoid last-minute buffering .
Device Compatibility
JioHotstar works on:
- Smartphones (Android and iOS)
- Tablets
- Laptops and Desktops (via website)
- Smart TVs (via app or casting)
- Chromecast and AirPlay supported devices
JioHotstar vs Other Cricket Streaming Apps
| Feature | JioHotstar | Other Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Match Coverage | All 55 matches | Varies by region |
| Languages | 8+ Indian languages | Usually 1-2 languages |
| Interactive Features | 360 view, Multi-cam | Basic streaming |
| Free Options | Via telecom partners | Limited |
| Video Quality | Up to 4K | Up to HD |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: App Not Loading
- Check your internet connection
- Clear app cache and data
- Update to the latest app version
- Restart your device
Problem: Buffering During Live Match
- Reduce video quality in settings
- Switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data (or vice versa)
- Close background apps consuming bandwidth
- Move closer to your Wi-Fi router
Problem: Language Feed Not Available
- Go to settings during the live stream
- Select your preferred language from the audio options
- For regional feeds, ensure you’re on the correct match page
Conclusion
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is the most digitally accessible cricket tournament in history, and the JioHotstar app is at the center of this revolution for Indian fans. Whether you choose a paid subscription, take advantage of T20 World Cup free streaming through telecom partners like Jio, Airtel, and Vi, or simply follow our step-by-step guide on how to watch live cricket on JioHotstar app, you’re guaranteed a world-class viewing experience .
With innovative features like vertical live feeds for mobile users, 360-degree views, multi-cam options, and commentary in over eight Indian languages, JioHotstar has set a new standard for live cricket streaming . From the opening fixture between India and USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium to the blockbuster India vs Pakistan clash on February 15, and ultimately the final on March 8, every moment of the T20 World Cup 2026 is just a tap away .
As defending champions India, led by T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav after the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, aim to defy historical odds and become the first team to successfully defend the Men’s T20 World Cup title, fans won’t want to miss a single delivery . Download the JioHotstar app today, choose your plan, and get ready to witness history unfold.
Cricket live streaming has never been this immersive, this accessible, or this exciting. The future of cricket viewing is here, and it’s live on JioHotstar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is JioHotstar free for T20 World Cup 2026?
A: JioHotstar is not entirely free, but you can access it through bundled prepaid plans from Jio, Airtel, and Vi starting as low as Rs 44. These plans include a JioHotstar Mobile subscription along with data benefits .
Q2. Can I watch India vs Pakistan match on JioHotstar?
A: Yes, the India vs Pakistan match on February 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM IST will be streamed live on JioHotstar with multiple language options .
Q3. How many devices can stream simultaneously on JioHotstar?
A: The Mobile plan allows streaming on one smartphone. Super and Premium plans allow streaming on multiple devices simultaneously .
Q4. What internet speed is required for HD streaming?
A: A stable internet connection of at least 5 Mbps is recommended for uninterrupted HD streaming on JioHotstar .
Q5. Can I watch JioHotstar outside India?
A: JioHotstar is geo-restricted to India. However, you can use a VPN service to connect to an Indian server and access the platform from anywhere in the world .
Q6. Are match replays available on JioHotstar?
A: Yes, JioHotstar provides full match replays and highlights shortly after the live broadcast ends .
Q7. Which languages are available for commentary?
A: Commentary is available in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Haryanvi, and Marathi (for India matches) .
Q8. What is the cheapest way to get JioHotstar?
A: The cheapest way is the Vi Rs 44 pack, which offers 1GB data for one day and a 30-day JioHotstar Mobile subscription .
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. All details regarding the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including match schedules, broadcasting rights, live streaming platforms, and subscription plans, are based on information available in the public domain and are subject to change at the sole discretion of the International Cricket Council (ICC), JioStar, and its official partners.
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