County Championship 2026: Format, Teams, and Key Details
The County Championship is the premier first-class cricket competition in England and Wales, organized by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Established in 1890, it remains the world’s oldest domestic cricket tournament.
2026 Season Structure
The 2026 County Championship will run from April 3 to September 27, featuring two divisions. Division One will contain 70 first-class matches, while Division Two will feature 56 matches. The tournament follows a home-and-away format across four-day fixtures.
Teams and Format
Eighteen clubs compete in the Championship, representing 17 historic counties of England and one from Wales. The teams are split into two divisions based on promotion and relegation from the previous season.
Current Champions
Nottinghamshire are the reigning champions, having secured the title in the 2025 season. Yorkshire holds the record for most titles with 33 outright championships (including one shared).
Administrator
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) oversees the County Championship, managing all aspects from scheduling to governance, ensuring the competition maintains its status as a top-tier first-class tournament.
Historical Context
While organized county cricket began formally in 1890, inter-county matches date back to 1709. Before the official championship, an unofficial “Champion County” title was often claimed through press or popular acclaim, particularly when clear dominance was demonstrated over a season.
Notable Records
- Most runs: Phil Mead with 46,268
- Most wickets: Tich Freeman with 3,151
Recent Activity
As of mid-April 2026, the 2026 season is underway, with Round 3 matches taking place from April 17 to 20. Live coverage and scores are being provided for fixtures including Hampshire vs Somerset in Division One and Northamptonshire vs Middlesex in Division Two.
The County Championship continues to serve as a vital platform for player development and international selection, with performances closely monitored by England selectors ahead of major tournaments.