The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 has proved that there has been a significant change in international cricket. Associate teams have developed to the extent that they are now tough rivals. They are challenging the major teams such as India, Pakistan, England and Australia. There was a time when the encounters between the major teams and Associate teams resulted in one-sided victories. However, the World Cup has produced different results this time around. The World Cup has produced a number of matches that resulted in narrow victories while retaining high levels of excitement and unpredictability. The evidence clearly shows that the major teams have become similar to Associate teams in terms of their abilities. The teams have not won in all their matches but they have won respect for their performances. They have shown that they have the capability to perform at the highest level. Franchise Cricket Helping Associate Players Improve Franchise cricket is the main reason for this positive change. The T20 leagues are now held every month in the whole year. The leagues give Associate players the chance to play against international players while playing alongside them. The exposure they get helps them learn faster. The players have to deal with tough situations. They participate in matches that take place in large stadiums. They learn about the training and performance of top-class athletes. The franchise cricket system has made Dipendra Singh Airee a popular player all around the world. He is fast in the field and excellent with the bat. This makes him perform well in both departments. Andries Gous has shown his talent with his brilliant 120 in ILT20. He has shown that he is capable of playing at a top level by his outstanding performance in that match. The players Josh Little and Paul van Meekeren have got benefits from their experiences. They have played in different international leagues around the world. The leagues offer the players beneficial experiences that help them develop their talents and toughness. The national teams get confident and competent players when these players return to play for their countries. Also Read | ICC penalized Scot's George Munsey for "abusing cricket equipment" during Nepal clash in Mumbai Associate Teams Pushing Big Nations to the Limit The World Cup has delivered multiple nail-biting encounters which involved Associate teams. The matches have astonished both the audience and the professional commentators. Nepal nearly achieved victory against England in their match against them. England managed to win after a tough match which required their players to put forth their maximum effort. Sam Curran said: "The Associate nations are playing more often and they are getting so much better. They're getting exposed to better cricket, better grounds… [Nepal] are a dangerous team throughout this World Cup so we'll watch out for them." Scotland also proved to be a tough opponent for England. Their performance has revealed that they are no longer intimidated by major teams. The matches that took place among Associate teams have resulted in some thrilling outcomes. A match between Nepal and Scotland was very exciting. Dipendra Singh Airee played an important part in the match by acting as an aggressor against bowlers. The above instances reveal that Associate teams have gained self-confidence in their capabilities. They now look forward to competing rather than wanting to compete. Also Read | Navneet Dhaliwal, the Canada Captain Calls Time on International Career Experienced Coaches and Global Support Making a Difference The improvement in their performance is also due to coaching, which is another important factor. Most Associate teams have hired experienced coaches from major cricket countries. Nepal has hired Stuart Law and Ian Harvey to train their players. The development of players also became better since the coaches imparted their knowledge. Namibia has received coaching advice from Gary Kirsten. The Netherlands appointed Ryan Cook as their coach. The UAE side chose Lalchand Rajput, who was a part of the Indian team that won the T20 World Cup in 2007. The coaches offer vital knowledge to their students. The coaches teach players about managing pressure, developing skills, and training methods. Associate teams have become more professional because of this support that helps them train on an equal level as the top teams. Players With International Experience Strengthening Associate Teams Some Associate teams also benefit from players who have played in bigger cricket systems before. Grant Stewart became famous for playing domestic cricket in England. He used his experience to perform well during crucial moments. Roelof van der Merwe is another great example. He is a successful Dutch player who began his career in South Africa. His experience has helped Netherlands become a stronger team. The players provide essential knowledge. The players show the younger generation how to enhance their skills. The combination of experienced players with talented youth players will make Associate teams more powerful. Also Read | T20 WC 2026: Gujarat Captain Turns Net Batter for Netherlands Ahead of India Match More Opportunities Are Key for Future Growth The opportunities for Associate teams to play against top teams remain insufficient despite their improved performance. The last World Cup made the USA and Canada wait too long before they could compete against strong opponents. More matches against top teams will help them improve faster. The players will develop better because the coaches help them maintain their confidence during the whole game. The Associate teams possess talent which needs additional chances to show their skills. The Future of Cricket Looks More Competitive The tournament results demonstrate that Associate teams have proven themselves to be strong competitors. Traditional teams have lost their ability to dominate the game. These teams have evolved into difficult opponents who can battle and win. The players have developed through franchise cricket and better coaching. The players have obtained international exposure. The future will bring about regular victories for Associate teams against top nations. The results will not seem surprising to people anymore. The competitive environment of cricket has reached its utmost level of intensity according to current standards.