The United States is co-hosting the tournament with the West Indies, with the 16 group stage matches to be held at three US venues – South Florida and New York and Dallas.
The USA are in good form after their surprise 2-1 T20 series win over Bangladesh and are favourites against Canada, over whom they have an edge in recent encounters.
The opening ceremony was a simple affair, with flag bearers representing the 20 teams. This is the biggest T20 World Cup since the International Cricket Council increased the size of the tournament from 16 to 15.