Skyscanner, the Edinburgh-born travel search giant, has sealed a blockbuster last-minute sponsorship as lead-arm partner of Scotland’s men’s cricket team for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
The deal, announced on 4 February 2026, came together in record time after Scotland received a dramatic late invitation to the tournament when another qualifier was disqualified.
In just 12 days, Cricket Scotland built a squad, designed new kits, and locked in a global brand with deep Scottish roots. Millions will now see the famous Skyscanner logo when the team takes on cricketing giants.
From Shock Call-Up to Global Stage in Under Two Weeks
Scotland’s journey to the 2026 World Cup is the stuff of sporting fairytales.
Ten days before the sponsorship announcement, the team had no idea they would be going to India and Sri Lanka. A rival nation’s disqualification triggered ICC rules that handed Scotland the final spot.
Chief Executive Trudy Lindblade called it “almost unprecedented.”
She said: “We had to assemble staff, select players, design and manufacture kits, and find a partner, all while the world watched. The fact we pulled it off is a testament to everyone involved.”
The new navy-blue T20 shirts, featuring the Skyscanner logo prominently on the leading arm, were designed, approved, and delivered in under two weeks, an achievement kit supplier VX3 called their fastest ever for an international team.
Why Skyscanner Said Yes So Fast
For Skyscanner, the partnership was an emotional no-brainer.
Founded in Edinburgh in 2003 by Gareth Williams, Jason Freemantle, and Bonamy Grimes, the company has never forgotten its Scottish roots even after becoming a global travel powerhouse used by over 100 million people monthly.
Chief Marketing Officer Clive Peoples explained the instant connection.
“This is personal for us,” Peoples said. “We’re a Scottish company watching our national team get a once-in-a-lifetime chance. When Cricket Scotland called, we didn’t hesitate.”
The brand already sponsors Scottish Rugby and will back Europe at the 2026 Solheim Cup in Scotland. Adding cricket completes a hat-trick of major home-nation sporting investments in one year.
What the Partnership Means for Scottish Cricket
This isn’t just about logos on shirts. The financial boost arrives at a pivotal moment for the sport in Scotland.
Cricket participation north of the border has grown 42% since 2019, with women’s and youth programs expanding rapidly. World Cup exposure could accelerate that growth.
Lindblade believes the Skyscanner effect will be transformative.
“Every time Scotland plays England, West Indies, or Nepal on the biggest stage, children across Scotland will see that their country belongs at the top table,” she said.
The global broadcast reach of the T20 World Cup regularly exceeds 500 million viewers. For a small nation of 5.5 million, that’s an advertising jackpot no marketing budget could buy.
The Road Ahead: Scotland’s Group and Key Matches
Scotland have been drawn in a tough group alongside:
- Two-time champions West Indies
- Hosts and favorites India (one match)
- England (in a repeat of their famous 2024 tie)
- Nepal and Italy
Their campaign begins on 16 February 2026 in Dharamsala against West Indies, with the blockbuster England clash scheduled for 22 February in Delhi.
Players like Brandon McMullen, Mark Watt, and captain Richie Berrington will wear the Skyscanner sleeve as they chase Super 8 qualification.
Early ticket searches for Scotland matches on Skyscanner’s platform have already surged 380% since qualification was confirmed, proving the partnership is already driving travel interest.
The story of a Scottish tech success backing a Scottish sporting underdog has captured hearts worldwide. Social media is flooded with fans sharing photos of the new shirt under the hashtag #SkyHighSaltires.
From a standing start to centre stage in twelve days. That’s not just fast, it’s pure Scottish grit meeting Scottish innovation.
This partnership feels bigger than sport. It’s proof that when opportunity knocks, Scotland answers, ready to take on the world.
What do you think of this fairytale partnership? Are you booking flights to India or Sri Lanka to cheer on the Saltires? Drop your thoughts below and share using #SkyHighSaltires!
