Cricket fans in India have a new destination for unfiltered tournament coverage as News18 India officially launches ‘Stump Mic’, a dedicated talk show for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Starting February 7, the program promises to break away from traditional, stat-heavy sports broadcasting by delivering a candid, “fan-first” perspective on the world’s biggest T20 stage.
Hosted by veteran journalist Anand Narasimhan, the show is designed to mimic the spontaneous and often humorous chatter captured by actual stump microphones on the field. Instead of rigid technical breakdowns, ‘Stump Mic’ focuses on free-flowing discussions, behind-the-scenes stories, and the raw emotions that define Indian cricket fandom.
The expert panel features a heavyweight lineup of cricketing talent and digital creators:
- Sanjay Manjrekar: Former India batter and renowned commentator.
- S Sreesanth: Former India fast bowler known for his aggressive spells.
- Umesh Yadav: Active Indian pacer providing current player perspectives.
- Monty Panesar: Former England spinner offering an international lens.
- Yuvraj Dua: Popular social media influencer bringing a millennial and Gen-Z vibe.
To ensure viewers feel the ground reality, the show incorporates extensive on-field reporting. Vimal Kumar, popularly known as Vimalwa, will lead the charge alongside News18 India’s team of correspondents. They will provide live updates on player fitness, the match-day atmosphere at iconic venues like the Wankhede Stadium and Narendra Modi Stadium, and authentic fan reactions from the stands.
‘Stump Mic’ is strategically scheduled to bookend live action on all India matchdays, ensuring comprehensive coverage for the “Men in Blue” supporters:
- Pre-Match Edition: 3:50 PM to 4:50 PM IST (Setting the context and match previews).
- Post-Match Edition: 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM IST (Detailed analysis, standout performances, and reactions).
The show provides a complete match-day experience, making it a must-watch for both serious followers and casual cricket enthusiasts looking for entertainment beyond the scoreboard.
Key Highlights:
- Launch Date: February 7, 2026, coinciding with the start of the T20 World Cup.
- Key Format: A “fan-first” talk show focusing on candid conversations rather than heavy statistics.
- Star Panel: Includes Sanjay Manjrekar, S Sreesanth, Umesh Yadav, Monty Panesar, and Yuvraj Dua.
- Broadcast Schedule: Daily 3:50 PM and 11:00 PM on India matchdays exclusively on News18 India.