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India made two key changes for their T20 World Cup Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe as Axar Patel and Sanju Samson returned to the Playing XI for the hosts on Thursday (Feb 26). The changes meant Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar missed out, with Samson keeping wickets for the Men in Blue at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. India will enter the Super 8 clash on the back of a defeat to South Africa on Sunday and will be eyeing a win, considering a place in the semis is up for grabs.<h2>Samson, Axar return to Playing XI</h2>India made two changes for the Zimbabwe clash with Rinku missing out due to lack of match practice with him traveling to North India. On the other hand, vice-captain Axar Patel was also given the nod in the Playing XI. Axar had missed the previous clash against South Africa in favour of Washington. Axar’s inclusion gives India an extra edge in the batting and bowling department.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Captain Suryakumar Yadav also confirmed Samson will keep wickets for India with Ishan playing as an outfield player. Sanju last played for India in the Delhi clash against Namibia when Abhishek Sharma was not available due to health-related issues. Samson scored 22 off 8 in that match and dropped out with Abhishek returning.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the time of writing, India were 80/1 in six overs as Abhishek was batting on 33 off 13 and Ishan on 15 off 9. Samson was dismissed for 24 off 15 and once again failed to make the most of his opportunity in the Playing XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;India will aim for a win in the contest as having lost to South Africa on Sunday in Ahmedabad. With West Indies losing to South Africa, India’s path to the semifinal is simple – win both remaining matches of the Super 8 stage and go through.&nbsp;&nbsp;India (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.&nbsp;

India will enter the Super 8 clash against Zimbabwer on the back of a defeat to South Africa on Sunday and will be eyeing a win, considering a place in the semis is up for grabs.

India made two key changes for their T20 World Cup Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe as Axar Patel and Sanju Samson returned to the Playing XI for the hosts on Thursday (Feb 26). The changes meant Rinku Singh and Washington Sundar missed out, with Samson keeping wickets for the Men in Blue at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. India will enter the Super 8 clash on the back of a defeat to South Africa on Sunday and will be eyeing a win, considering a place in the semis is up for grabs. Samson, Axar return to Playing XI India made two changes for the Zimbabwe clash with Rinku missing out due to lack of match practice with him traveling to North India. On the other hand, vice-captain Axar Patel was also given the nod in the Playing XI. Axar had missed the previous clash against South Africa in favour of Washington. Axar’s inclusion gives India an extra edge in the batting and bowling department. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Captain Suryakumar Yadav also confirmed Samson will keep wickets for India with Ishan playing as an outfield player. Sanju last played for India in the Delhi clash against Namibia when Abhishek Sharma was not available due to health-related issues. Samson scored 22 off 8 in that match and dropped out with Abhishek returning. At the time of writing, India were 80/1 in six overs as Abhishek was batting on 33 off 13 and Ishan on 15 off 9. Samson was dismissed for 24 off 15 and once again failed to make the most of his opportunity in the Playing XI. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli India will aim for a win in the contest as having lost to South Africa on Sunday in Ahmedabad. With West Indies losing to South Africa, India’s path to the semifinal is simple – win both remaining matches of the Super 8 stage and go through. India (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.

India will enter the Super 8 clash against Zimbabwer on the back of a defeat to South Africa on Sunday and will be eyeing a win, considering a place in the semis is up for grabs.

T20 World Cup 2026: Samson, Axar return to Playing XI for India; Washington, Rinku miss out for Zimbabwe clash

South Africa has done what all Indian cricket fans wanted: a little assistance in helping them stay afloat in the race for the T20 World Cup semifinals. A dominating win over West Indies in their second Super 8 match in Ahmedabad not only pushed them closer to the semifinal spot, but also prevented India from a shock early exit, provided India beat Zimbabwe later in the day and then the West Indies in their final Super 8 fixture. The Proteas completed the run chase with nine wickets and 23 balls remaining, helping elevate their Net Run Rate (NRR).&nbsp;India needed the Proteas to handsomely beat the Windies to stay alive in the race for a semifinal spot in this T20 World Cup, which they now do. Although the ball is now in Team India’s court with the Zimbabwe Super 8 game looming, South Africa’s NRR after two comprehensive wins almost assured their qualification, while increasing India’s chances should they beat the West Indies in Kolkata.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-sanju-samson-axar-patel-return-to-playing-xi-for-india-washington-rinku-singh-miss-out-for-zimbabwe-clash-india-vs-zimbabwe-1772109392158">T20 World Cup 2026: Samson, Axar return to Playing XI for India; Washington, Rinku miss out for Zimbabwe clash</a> &nbsp;South Africa won the toss and elected to field first in Ahmedabad; unlike how they began previously, the West Indian batters had no answers to the South African quicks, losing four wickets inside the Powerplay. With three more wickets in the next six overs, the Proteas had West Indies reeling on 83 for seven at one stage. However, a standout 89-run stand for the eighth wicket between Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd pulled them out of trouble, posting a fighting 176 for eight in the first innings.<h3>De Kock, Markram squashed Windies</h3>The South African openers, Quinton de Kock and captain Aiden Markram, came all guns blazing, smashing close to 70 runs inside the first six overs. The left-handed de Kock didn’t stop afterwards, as he smashed spinners for sixes for fun.&nbsp; &nbsp;Roston Chase finally broke the stand by dismissing de Kock before Markram, and Ryan Rickelton made light work of this run chase. The left-right combination did wonders for the team as they hunted the target with nine wickets remaining.&nbsp; &nbsp;Markram remained unbeaten on 82 off 46, including four sixes and seven fours, and Rickelton smashed 45 not out in 28 balls, hitting two maximums and four fours. With +2.890 NRR, South Africa already has one foot into the semifinal.&nbsp;

South Africa dominated the West Indies in the T20 World Cup Super 8 tie. As Markram and De Kock shone, find out how a Proteas victory today keeps India’s semi-final hopes alive ahead of their do-or-die clash with Zimbabwe.

South Africa has done what all Indian cricket fans wanted: a little assistance in helping them stay afloat in the race for the T20 World Cup semifinals. A dominating win over West Indies in their second Super 8 match in Ahmedabad not only pushed them closer to the semifinal spot, but also prevented India from a shock early exit, provided India beat Zimbabwe later in the day and then the West Indies in their final Super 8 fixture. The Proteas completed the run chase with nine wickets and 23 balls remaining, helping elevate their Net Run Rate (NRR). India needed the Proteas to handsomely beat the Windies to stay alive in the race for a semifinal spot in this T20 World Cup, which they now do. Although the ball is now in Team India’s court with the Zimbabwe Super 8 game looming, South Africa’s NRR after two comprehensive wins almost assured their qualification, while increasing India’s chances should they beat the West Indies in Kolkata. Also read | T20 World Cup 2026: Samson, Axar return to Playing XI for India; Washington, Rinku miss out for Zimbabwe clash South Africa won the toss and elected to field first in Ahmedabad; unlike how they began previously, the West Indian batters had no answers to the South African quicks, losing four wickets inside the Powerplay. With three more wickets in the next six overs, the Proteas had West Indies reeling on 83 for seven at one stage. However, a standout 89-run stand for the eighth wicket between Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd pulled them out of trouble, posting a fighting 176 for eight in the first innings. De Kock, Markram squashed Windies The South African openers, Quinton de Kock and captain Aiden Markram, came all guns blazing, smashing close to 70 runs inside the first six overs. The left-handed de Kock didn’t stop afterwards, as he smashed spinners for sixes for fun. Roston Chase finally broke the stand by dismissing de Kock before Markram, and Ryan Rickelton made light work of this run chase. The left-right combination did wonders for the team as they hunted the target with nine wickets remaining. Markram remained unbeaten on 82 off 46, including four sixes and seven fours, and Rickelton smashed 45 not out in 28 balls, hitting two maximums and four fours. With +2.890 NRR, South Africa already has one foot into the semifinal.

South Africa dominated the West Indies in the T20 World Cup Super 8 tie. As Markram and De Kock shone, find out how a Proteas victory today keeps India’s semi-final hopes alive ahead of their do-or-die clash with Zimbabwe.

T20 World Cup Super 8: South Africa crush West Indies to help India stay afloat in semis race

Jammu &amp; Kashmir are on the brink of their maiden Ranji Trophy final as they are on the cusp of a first innings lead against Karnataka. Playing on Day 3 of the Ranji Trophy final at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli, Karnataka’s international stars had an off day with KL Rahul, Karun Nair and Devdutt Padikkal all falling flat. At Stumps on Day 3, Karnataka were 220/5 and still trail by 364 runs with two days to go.<h2>Karnataka’s star batters fail</h2>Having closed the day at 527/6, J&amp;K were bowled out for 584 and gave Karnataka a stern challenge in the first innings. This meant the eight-time champion needed a positive start; however, that was not the case. KL Rahul was dismissed for 13 by Auqib Nabi before captain Devdutt Padikkal (11) was dismissed, making no favours to Karnataka.&nbsp;Things went from bad to worse for the hosts as they lost Karun Nair and Smaran Ravichandran on back-to-back balls. This meant Karnataka went from 56/1 to 57/4, putting them in a worrying position with more than 500 runs still to be chased down in the first innings.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Shreyas Gopal (27) and Mayank Agarwal, however, put together 105 runs for the fifth wicket and helped their team to bounce back after a poor start. Agarwal made a bright start as he held one end for the hosts as wickets kept on falling at consistent intervals.Agarwal remained unbeaten on 130 at Stumps along with wicketkeeper-batter Kruthik Krishna (27). Karnataka ended Day 3 at 220/5 and need to avoid conceding a lead if they have to retain chances of winning the final.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happens if Ranji Trophy final ends in a draw?</h2>With two days remaining, it is unlikely that the Ranji Trophy final will have an outright winner. It is also likely that J&amp;K could bat on the majority of Day 4 in case they bowl out Karnataka. A lead in the first innings could see J&amp;K in pole position as current rules state – in case of a draw, the team with the first innings lead will be handed over the title.&nbsp;This means, in case of a draw and assuming J&amp;K take the first innings lead, they can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title.&nbsp;To avoid any further ups and downs, J&amp;K might bat the remainder of the Test match while giving Karnataka no chance of any comeback and outright winning the final.

Playing on Day 3 of the Ranji Trophy final at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli, Karnataka’s international stars had an off day with KL Rahul, Karun Nair and Devdutt Padikkal all falling flat.

Jammu & Kashmir are on the brink of their maiden Ranji Trophy final as they are on the cusp of a first innings lead against Karnataka. Playing on Day 3 of the Ranji Trophy final at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli, Karnataka’s international stars had an off day with KL Rahul, Karun Nair and Devdutt Padikkal all falling flat. At Stumps on Day 3, Karnataka were 220/5 and still trail by 364 runs with two days to go. Karnataka’s star batters fail Having closed the day at 527/6, J&K were bowled out for 584 and gave Karnataka a stern challenge in the first innings. This meant the eight-time champion needed a positive start; however, that was not the case. KL Rahul was dismissed for 13 by Auqib Nabi before captain Devdutt Padikkal (11) was dismissed, making no favours to Karnataka. Things went from bad to worse for the hosts as they lost Karun Nair and Smaran Ravichandran on back-to-back balls. This meant Karnataka went from 56/1 to 57/4, putting them in a worrying position with more than 500 runs still to be chased down in the first innings. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Shreyas Gopal (27) and Mayank Agarwal, however, put together 105 runs for the fifth wicket and helped their team to bounce back after a poor start. Agarwal made a bright start as he held one end for the hosts as wickets kept on falling at consistent intervals. Agarwal remained unbeaten on 130 at Stumps along with wicketkeeper-batter Kruthik Krishna (27). Karnataka ended Day 3 at 220/5 and need to avoid conceding a lead if they have to retain chances of winning the final. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happens if Ranji Trophy final ends in a draw? With two days remaining, it is unlikely that the Ranji Trophy final will have an outright winner. It is also likely that J&K could bat on the majority of Day 4 in case they bowl out Karnataka. A lead in the first innings could see J&K in pole position as current rules state – in case of a draw, the team with the first innings lead will be handed over the title. This means, in case of a draw and assuming J&K take the first innings lead, they can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title. To avoid any further ups and downs, J&K might bat the remainder of the Test match while giving Karnataka no chance of any comeback and outright winning the final.

Playing on Day 3 of the Ranji Trophy final at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli, Karnataka’s international stars had an off day with KL Rahul, Karun Nair and Devdutt Padikkal all falling flat.

Ranji Trophy Final: Star Karnataka batters fail on Day 3, J&K on cusp of title-clinching first-inning lead

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha’s wife, Sabba Manzer, responded to online threats aimed at her and her son following the national team’s loss to England in the recently concluded T20 World Cup Super 8 fixture in Kandy. Pakistan suffered a two-wicket defeat at the hands of England, which helped the Poms qualify for the semi-finals and push Pakistan to the brink of elimination. Their exit, however, is now imminent with New Zealand crushing Sri Lanka in their latest game in Colombo, leaving Pakistan with a bare minimum chance to cruise.&nbsp;Pakistan barely looked convincing in this T20 World Cup edition. Despite playing in familiar subcontinental conditions, with Sri Lanka hosting all their matches, Pakistan narrowly won their tournament opener against the Netherlands before flooring the USA. After losing to India by 76 runs, their biggest margin of defeat against their arch-rivals in the competition’s history, Pakistan crushed Namibia by over 100 runs in their last league match.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-wont-tolerate-it-shahid-afridi-on-bruising-son-in-law-shaheen-s-ego-for-team-s-sake-1772096433429">‘He won’t tolerate it’: Shahid Afridi on bruising son-in-law Shaheen’s ego for team’s sake</a> &nbsp;Moving to the Super 8 stage, Pakistan’s first match against New Zealand was washed out due to rain, with the two teams gaining one point each. Against England in their must-win tie, Pakistan did challenge the Poms, but failed, as England beat them by two wickets, thanks to a record-breaking hundred by Harry Brook. &nbsp;Although that loss pushed Pakistan closer to the exit than the semis spot, it turned vile as Pakistani fans took to social media to target team captain Salman Ali Agha’s wife and son, abusing and threatening them. Responding to this shock reaction from the countless cricket fans across the globe, Salman’s wife took to her Instagram handle, posting, “Sending me and my innocent son abuse is not going to win the World Cup Pakistani fans.”<h3>Can Pakistan still qualify for the T20 World Cup semis?</h3>Team Pakistan stays afloat in the T20 World Cup semis race despite Sri Lanka’s latest defeat. For them to advance to the next round, Pakistan must hope for England to beat New Zealand in their last Super 8 match, while also considering that the Men in Green will stand against the tournament’s co-hosts.&nbsp; &nbsp;Saturday (Feb 28) will decide Pakistan’s fate, as all four teams from their Super 8 Group will be in action.

Pakistan captain Salman Agha’s wife, Sabba Manzer, hits back at vile online threats and abuse following the team's Super 8 defeat to England. See the full story behind the social media backlash.

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha’s wife, Sabba Manzer, responded to online threats aimed at her and her son following the national team’s loss to England in the recently concluded T20 World Cup Super 8 fixture in Kandy. Pakistan suffered a two-wicket defeat at the hands of England, which helped the Poms qualify for the semi-finals and push Pakistan to the brink of elimination. Their exit, however, is now imminent with New Zealand crushing Sri Lanka in their latest game in Colombo, leaving Pakistan with a bare minimum chance to cruise. Pakistan barely looked convincing in this T20 World Cup edition. Despite playing in familiar subcontinental conditions, with Sri Lanka hosting all their matches, Pakistan narrowly won their tournament opener against the Netherlands before flooring the USA. After losing to India by 76 runs, their biggest margin of defeat against their arch-rivals in the competition’s history, Pakistan crushed Namibia by over 100 runs in their last league match. Also read | ‘He won’t tolerate it’: Shahid Afridi on bruising son-in-law Shaheen’s ego for team’s sake Moving to the Super 8 stage, Pakistan’s first match against New Zealand was washed out due to rain, with the two teams gaining one point each. Against England in their must-win tie, Pakistan did challenge the Poms, but failed, as England beat them by two wickets, thanks to a record-breaking hundred by Harry Brook. Although that loss pushed Pakistan closer to the exit than the semis spot, it turned vile as Pakistani fans took to social media to target team captain Salman Ali Agha’s wife and son, abusing and threatening them. Responding to this shock reaction from the countless cricket fans across the globe, Salman’s wife took to her Instagram handle, posting, “Sending me and my innocent son abuse is not going to win the World Cup Pakistani fans.” Can Pakistan still qualify for the T20 World Cup semis? Team Pakistan stays afloat in the T20 World Cup semis race despite Sri Lanka’s latest defeat. For them to advance to the next round, Pakistan must hope for England to beat New Zealand in their last Super 8 match, while also considering that the Men in Green will stand against the tournament’s co-hosts. Saturday (Feb 28) will decide Pakistan’s fate, as all four teams from their Super 8 Group will be in action.

Pakistan captain Salman Agha’s wife, Sabba Manzer, hits back at vile online threats and abuse following the team's Super 8 defeat to England. See the full story behind the social media backlash.

‘Abusing my son…,’ Defeat turns vile as Pakistan captain Salman Agha’s wife responds to online threats

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign is all but done following Sri Lanka’s crushing loss to New Zealand in their second Super 8 match in Colombo. Although Pakistan had a role to play in this outcome, having lost its previous match against England in Kandy, seamer Shaheen Afridi was their best player on the day, returning with four wickets. While his outing did bring some excitement in the run chase, it failed to help Pakistan win the crunch tie. Shahid Afridi, a former captain and Shaheen’s father-in-law, is happy to take little credit for his improved performance, days after he commented on dropping him from the playing XI.&nbsp;Shaheen hasn’t had the best of runs in the lead-up to the England game, having picked just three wickets in as many matches earlier. However, since Shahid Afridi went public with his remarks on dropping Afridi following the India Group game, which Pakistan lost one-sidedly, the left-armer bowled well in the Super 8.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-scenarios-here-s-why-india-vs-pakistan-clash-is-unlikely-in-semifinal-1772043517409">T20 World Cup 2026: Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal</a> &nbsp;Pakistan did bench Afridi for the Namibia game but brought him back for the one against England, where he removed the English openers inside the first six overs. He accounted for England’s top order, including captain Harry Brook, cleaned bowled on 100; however, by then, England had almost won the game. &nbsp;Speaking on Pakistani news channel Samaa TV, Afridi explained why his remarks were deliberate and aimed at Shaheen for a reason. Although Shahid was almost successful in his attempt to bruise Shaheen’s ego, as he performed the best, his performance failed to deliver the win needed to cruise ahead. &nbsp;“Shaheen wasn’t in my XI. And I knew how to get the best out of him. I tried to fire him up by having his father-in-law say what everyone else was saying (dropping him from the XI). I had to fire him up. And if anyone asks me about the next match, I’ll bench Shaheen for that game as well, won’t keep him in the team. That is how you have to keep that fire burning within him,” Shahid said following Pakistan's narrow two-wicket loss against England in Super 8. &nbsp;“Some people need to have their egos hurt to feel angry. I know Shaheen’s mind very well. There will be those claiming I’m making such a statement only after he’s performed well, but I told my daughter the same thing. I told her to check his performance in his next game, whichever match he’s recalled for. He won’t be able to tolerate such an insult. &nbsp;“You have to play with the minds of certain individuals, and I did precisely that. He has that trait; I have seen him fight his way back,” he concluded.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan will play the tournament's co-host, Sri Lanka, in their final Super 8 game.&nbsp;

Shahid Afridi reveals the "insult" tactic used to provoke son-in-law Shaheen Afridi during the T20 World Cup 2026. "He won't tolerate it": Why the Pakistan legend publicly called for Shaheen to be benched to fire him up.

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign is all but done following Sri Lanka’s crushing loss to New Zealand in their second Super 8 match in Colombo. Although Pakistan had a role to play in this outcome, having lost its previous match against England in Kandy, seamer Shaheen Afridi was their best player on the day, returning with four wickets. While his outing did bring some excitement in the run chase, it failed to help Pakistan win the crunch tie. Shahid Afridi, a former captain and Shaheen’s father-in-law, is happy to take little credit for his improved performance, days after he commented on dropping him from the playing XI. Shaheen hasn’t had the best of runs in the lead-up to the England game, having picked just three wickets in as many matches earlier. However, since Shahid Afridi went public with his remarks on dropping Afridi following the India Group game, which Pakistan lost one-sidedly, the left-armer bowled well in the Super 8. Also read | T20 World Cup 2026: Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal Pakistan did bench Afridi for the Namibia game but brought him back for the one against England, where he removed the English openers inside the first six overs. He accounted for England’s top order, including captain Harry Brook, cleaned bowled on 100; however, by then, England had almost won the game. Speaking on Pakistani news channel Samaa TV, Afridi explained why his remarks were deliberate and aimed at Shaheen for a reason. Although Shahid was almost successful in his attempt to bruise Shaheen’s ego, as he performed the best, his performance failed to deliver the win needed to cruise ahead. “Shaheen wasn’t in my XI. And I knew how to get the best out of him. I tried to fire him up by having his father-in-law say what everyone else was saying (dropping him from the XI). I had to fire him up. And if anyone asks me about the next match, I’ll bench Shaheen for that game as well, won’t keep him in the team. That is how you have to keep that fire burning within him,” Shahid said following Pakistan's narrow two-wicket loss against England in Super 8. “Some people need to have their egos hurt to feel angry. I know Shaheen’s mind very well. There will be those claiming I’m making such a statement only after he’s performed well, but I told my daughter the same thing. I told her to check his performance in his next game, whichever match he’s recalled for. He won’t be able to tolerate such an insult. “You have to play with the minds of certain individuals, and I did precisely that. He has that trait; I have seen him fight his way back,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Pakistan will play the tournament's co-host, Sri Lanka, in their final Super 8 game.

Shahid Afridi reveals the "insult" tactic used to provoke son-in-law Shaheen Afridi during the T20 World Cup 2026. "He won't tolerate it": Why the Pakistan legend publicly called for Shaheen to be benched to fire him up.

‘He won’t tolerate it’: Shahid Afridi on bruising son-in-law Shaheen’s ego for team’s sake

Team India will have to make several tactical adjustments to ensure they beat Zimbabwe and continue to make inroads in the T20 World Cup semi-finals race. After conceding a 76-run loss against South Africa in their first Super 8 tie, Team India faces an uphill task against Zimbabwe in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26). Amid reports that management is likely to get the pitch of its liking, the hosts still have to make the best selection calls, including playing Sanju Samson despite Rinku Singh’s return and availability.&nbsp;Rinku flew home to be with his ailing father and returned in time for the Zimbabwe Super 8 game; however, chances of him finding a place in the XI are unlikely given Team India’s peculiar batting situation. While Abhishek Sharma’s form remains a headache, Rinku’s also hasn’t helped the cause. The two left-handers have failed to click in numerous outings thus far, with the management likely to make a few changes to get things back on track.<h3>Samson in, Rinku and Tilak out?</h3>India would likely bring back Sanju Samson into the playing XI, making him open with under-fire Abhishek Sharma, with Ishan Kishan playing at number three – a position he is familiar with batting at, both for India and in the IPL. With Kishan demoted to three, captain Suryakumar Yadav bats down at four, again a position he tasted most success as a T20 batter.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-south-africa-vs-west-indies-which-team-should-indian-fans-support-1772077787468">T20 World Cup 2026 | South Africa vs West Indies - Which team should Indian fans support</a> &nbsp;This one change, however, drags Tilak Varma out of the side, with the two attacking all-rounders, Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, playing at five and six, respectively. &nbsp;Following a tactical blunder (of continuing to play Washington Sundar ahead of Axar Patel) that cost India against the Proteas, India is most likely to recall Patel to the playing XI, also considering the number of right-handers in Zimbabwe’s side. &nbsp;Axar at seven serves the purpose, with India having plenty of options to fill the remaining four slots. While three bowlers – Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are all likely to start, there would be a toss-up between Washington, Kuldeep Yadav and Harshit Rana for the remaining one slot. &nbsp;Also, with India dropping both Rinku and Tilak, playing Washington wouldn't be the worst choice, as he gives batting and bowling options anyway. It, however, remains to be seen if Team India chooses the ultra-attacking option or backs an XI with a batter less.&nbsp; &nbsp;Here is Team India's Predicted Playing XI for the Zimbabwe fixture - &nbsp;Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar/Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh

Will Sanju Samson replace Rinku Singh? India faces a do-or-die T20 World Cup Super 8 clash vs Zimbabwe in Chennai. Explore our predicted XI as Axar Patel returns to fix the tactical imbalance at Chepauk.

Team India will have to make several tactical adjustments to ensure they beat Zimbabwe and continue to make inroads in the T20 World Cup semi-finals race. After conceding a 76-run loss against South Africa in their first Super 8 tie, Team India faces an uphill task against Zimbabwe in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26). Amid reports that management is likely to get the pitch of its liking, the hosts still have to make the best selection calls, including playing Sanju Samson despite Rinku Singh’s return and availability. Rinku flew home to be with his ailing father and returned in time for the Zimbabwe Super 8 game; however, chances of him finding a place in the XI are unlikely given Team India’s peculiar batting situation. While Abhishek Sharma’s form remains a headache, Rinku’s also hasn’t helped the cause. The two left-handers have failed to click in numerous outings thus far, with the management likely to make a few changes to get things back on track. Samson in, Rinku and Tilak out? India would likely bring back Sanju Samson into the playing XI, making him open with under-fire Abhishek Sharma, with Ishan Kishan playing at number three – a position he is familiar with batting at, both for India and in the IPL. With Kishan demoted to three, captain Suryakumar Yadav bats down at four, again a position he tasted most success as a T20 batter. Also read | T20 World Cup 2026 | South Africa vs West Indies - Which team should Indian fans support This one change, however, drags Tilak Varma out of the side, with the two attacking all-rounders, Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, playing at five and six, respectively. Following a tactical blunder (of continuing to play Washington Sundar ahead of Axar Patel) that cost India against the Proteas, India is most likely to recall Patel to the playing XI, also considering the number of right-handers in Zimbabwe’s side. Axar at seven serves the purpose, with India having plenty of options to fill the remaining four slots. While three bowlers – Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh are all likely to start, there would be a toss-up between Washington, Kuldeep Yadav and Harshit Rana for the remaining one slot. Also, with India dropping both Rinku and Tilak, playing Washington wouldn't be the worst choice, as he gives batting and bowling options anyway. It, however, remains to be seen if Team India chooses the ultra-attacking option or backs an XI with a batter less. Here is Team India's Predicted Playing XI for the Zimbabwe fixture - Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar/Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh

Will Sanju Samson replace Rinku Singh? India faces a do-or-die T20 World Cup Super 8 clash vs Zimbabwe in Chennai. Explore our predicted XI as Axar Patel returns to fix the tactical imbalance at Chepauk.

Samson likely to play despite Rinku’s availability as India seek tactical change for do-or-die ZIM fixture

South Africa take on West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash on Thursday (Feb 26) in Ahmedabad before India face Zimbabwe in do-or-die fixture in Chennai later in the evening. While India must win their match against Zimbabwe to stay in hunt for the semis, the South Africa vs West Indies result is also something they would want to go in their favour. The Proteas, who beat India in the first match and West Indies, who battered Zimbabwe, both have two points each and the winning team will all but book a place in the final four. But, Indian fans will hope for a South African victory as it will give the best shot at making to the semis.<h2>South Africa vs West Indies - which team should Indian fans support</h2>While a win for any of the team doesn't put India out of semis contention, a certain result will make it difficult for sure. India currently have a net run rate of -3.80 after losing to South Africa. Here's how South Africa or West Indies win impact India:Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-fitness-bowling-pitches-and-negativity-skipper-shanaka-laid-bare-reasons-for-sri-lanka-s-exit-1772073969820">T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Fitness, bowling pitches and negativity': Skipper Shanaka laid bare reasons for Sri Lanka's exit</a><h3>West Indies beat South Africa</h3>West Indies currently have a net run rate of +5.3 and a win against South Africa will all but put them in the semis barring formalities. A WI win will leave South Africa with two points but better net run rate than India even if they beat Zimbabwe. India, in that case, will have to hope for a Zimbabwe win against South Africa and must beat West Indies themselves - both by huge margins for a place in the semis.<h3>South Africa beat West Indies</h3>A win over West Indies will put South Africa in the semis for sure, leaving West Indies with two points and one match left to play. In case of a SA win over WI, India vs West Indies on Sunday (Mar 1) becomes the decider match for both teams, given India beat Zimbabwe.So, as an Indian fan, one must support South Africa win over West Indies for SKY and team to have a better shot at the semis and chance to defend their title.

The Proteas, who beat India in the first match and West Indies, who battered Zimbabwe, both have two points and each and the winning team will all but book a place in the final four. But, Indian fans will hope for a South African victory as it will give the best shot at making to the semis.

South Africa take on West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash on Thursday (Feb 26) in Ahmedabad before India face Zimbabwe in do-or-die fixture in Chennai later in the evening. While India must win their match against Zimbabwe to stay in hunt for the semis, the South Africa vs West Indies result is also something they would want to go in their favour. The Proteas, who beat India in the first match and West Indies, who battered Zimbabwe, both have two points each and the winning team will all but book a place in the final four. But, Indian fans will hope for a South African victory as it will give the best shot at making to the semis. South Africa vs West Indies - which team should Indian fans support While a win for any of the team doesn't put India out of semis contention, a certain result will make it difficult for sure. India currently have a net run rate of -3.80 after losing to South Africa. Here's how South Africa or West Indies win impact India: Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Fitness, bowling pitches and negativity': Skipper Shanaka laid bare reasons for Sri Lanka's exit West Indies beat South Africa West Indies currently have a net run rate of +5.3 and a win against South Africa will all but put them in the semis barring formalities. A WI win will leave South Africa with two points but better net run rate than India even if they beat Zimbabwe. India, in that case, will have to hope for a Zimbabwe win against South Africa and must beat West Indies themselves - both by huge margins for a place in the semis. South Africa beat West Indies A win over West Indies will put South Africa in the semis for sure, leaving West Indies with two points and one match left to play. In case of a SA win over WI, India vs West Indies on Sunday (Mar 1) becomes the decider match for both teams, given India beat Zimbabwe. So, as an Indian fan, one must support South Africa win over West Indies for SKY and team to have a better shot at the semis and chance to defend their title.

The Proteas, who beat India in the first match and West Indies, who battered Zimbabwe, both have two points and each and the winning team will all but book a place in the final four. But, Indian fans will hope for a South African victory as it will give the best shot at making to the semis.

T20 World Cup 2026 | South Africa vs West Indies - Which team should Indian fans support

Sri Lanka, co-host of T20 World Cup 2026, became the first team to be eliminated after loss against New Zealand by 61 runs in Super 8 on Wednesday (Feb 25) at Khettarama. Skipper Dasun Shanaka didn't take the loss kindly and laid bare a number of reasons including fitness of players, home advantage and negativity around the team as well. Sri Lanka, after winning the T20 World Cup title in 2014, has not been able to reach even one semi-final. Sri Lanka skipper, however, also apologised to the fans for not fulfilling the expectations.<h2>Shanaka offers reasons for SL's elimination from T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Skipper Shanaka wasn't happy with the wickets provided being too bowling friendly for the tournament. In two games of Super 8, Sri Lanka bowled well but failed to capitalize with the bat in crunch moments - leading to their early exit.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-infighting-in-pak-team-shaheen-afridi-blames-batters-for-loss-vs-england-1771996179409">T20 WC 2026 | 'Infighting in Pak team?:' Afridi blames batters for loss vs ENG</a>"I expected the wickets to be good for batting. Sometimes we don't get conditions we want, and we lose matches in unexpected ways. We're very sad about what has happened," he said.Shanaka also raised concerns about fitness level of players with the side losing key players in Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, and Eshan Malinga during the course of the tounament."You've also got to make fitness a non-negotiable," Shanaka said. "When you have the number of injuries we've had, it's hard to get a good outcome. Your fitness level influences your injuries. There are some players who can't even get into the team because of fitness issues. That's something we've talked about a lot over several World Cups now."<h2>Apology to fans but Shanka calls out negativity</h2>The Sri Lanka skipper apologised to the fans for not doing "justice to the expectations. We couldn't give fans what we wanted. For that we're sorry."Shanaka, however, called out the criticism in form of negativity and said: "Why spread this negativity? Yes, we lost a World Cup, and we know the reasons. Everyone has concerns. More than talking about that and correcting it, the negativity has come to the fore."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sri Lanka, after winning the T20 World Cup title in 2014, has not been able to reach even one semi-final. Skipper Shanaka also apologised to the fans for not fulfilling the expectations.

Sri Lanka, co-host of T20 World Cup 2026, became the first team to be eliminated after loss against New Zealand by 61 runs in Super 8 on Wednesday (Feb 25) at Khettarama. Skipper Dasun Shanaka didn't take the loss kindly and laid bare a number of reasons including fitness of players, home advantage and negativity around the team as well. Sri Lanka, after winning the T20 World Cup title in 2014, has not been able to reach even one semi-final. Sri Lanka skipper, however, also apologised to the fans for not fulfilling the expectations. Shanaka offers reasons for SL's elimination from T20 World Cup 2026 Skipper Shanaka wasn't happy with the wickets provided being too bowling friendly for the tournament. In two games of Super 8, Sri Lanka bowled well but failed to capitalize with the bat in crunch moments - leading to their early exit. Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | 'Infighting in Pak team?:' Afridi blames batters for loss vs ENG "I expected the wickets to be good for batting. Sometimes we don't get conditions we want, and we lose matches in unexpected ways. We're very sad about what has happened," he said. Shanaka also raised concerns about fitness level of players with the side losing key players in Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, and Eshan Malinga during the course of the tounament. "You've also got to make fitness a non-negotiable," Shanaka said. "When you have the number of injuries we've had, it's hard to get a good outcome. Your fitness level influences your injuries. There are some players who can't even get into the team because of fitness issues. That's something we've talked about a lot over several World Cups now." Apology to fans but Shanka calls out negativity The Sri Lanka skipper apologised to the fans for not doing "justice to the expectations. We couldn't give fans what we wanted. For that we're sorry." Shanaka, however, called out the criticism in form of negativity and said: "Why spread this negativity? Yes, we lost a World Cup, and we know the reasons. Everyone has concerns. More than talking about that and correcting it, the negativity has come to the fore."

Sri Lanka, after winning the T20 World Cup title in 2014, has not been able to reach even one semi-final. Skipper Shanaka also apologised to the fans for not fulfilling the expectations.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Fitness, bowling pitches and negativity': Skipper Shanaka laid bare reasons for Sri Lanka's exit

The 2026 T20 World Cup is reaching its final phase as teams battle for a place in the semifinals, including big names like India, Pakistan, and others. However, the eyes of the cricket fraternity will be on the India vs Pakistan clash, which is a treat for fans from both nations as well as neutrals. However, the fixture is unlikely to take place in the semis, meaning the only possibility that both India and Pakistan could play is in the final.<h2>Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal</h2>As per the ICC guidelines, semifinalists of the T20 World Cup will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa. However, that scenario is now unlikely, with both India and Pakistan unlikely to finish in the opposite rankings, while a bigger picture could also see both teams missing out on the semifinal altogether.<h2>What is the current scenario?</h2>At the time of writing on the morning of Thursday (Feb 26), before the South Africa vs West Indies Super 8 clash in Group 1, both India and Pakistan sit in non-qualifying positions. Wednesday’s results in Group 2 meant Pakistan will no longer finish in the top spot and the best they can finish is runners-up. This means, for an India vs Pakistan match to happen in the semifinal, the Men in Blue will have to finish as Group 1 winners.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Can India finish as Group 1 winners?</h2>Technically, India can still finish as Group 1 winners, but it will require a solid case with a specific set of results to be achieved. After Sunday’s defeat to South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav and Co can finish on a maximum of four points, meaning the Proteas and the West Indies should lose at least one match in the Super 8 stage. One part of the equation will be achieved on Thursday as South Africa and the West Indies square off in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;The winner of the South Africa vs West Indies match should lose on Sunday, while India should win both their matches. Assuming West Indies beat South Africa and then India beat the West Indies, the final Group 1 table will see three teams locked up on four points each (also assuming South Africa beat Zimbabwe on Sunday).&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;This will mean India, South Africa and the West Indies will finish with four points and net run rate will decide the group winners. So only victories with a big margin will see India finish as group winners and retain a chance of an India vs Pakistan clash in the semis.However, with NRR not in India’s favour and both the West Indies and Zimbabwe playing a good brand of cricket, India may achieve the points tally but may miss out on NRR. This will therefore mean that India vs Pakistan is unlikely in the semis.

Semifinalists of the T20 World Cup 2026 will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa.

The 2026 T20 World Cup is reaching its final phase as teams battle for a place in the semifinals, including big names like India, Pakistan, and others. However, the eyes of the cricket fraternity will be on the India vs Pakistan clash, which is a treat for fans from both nations as well as neutrals. However, the fixture is unlikely to take place in the semis, meaning the only possibility that both India and Pakistan could play is in the final. Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal As per the ICC guidelines, semifinalists of the T20 World Cup will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa. However, that scenario is now unlikely, with both India and Pakistan unlikely to finish in the opposite rankings, while a bigger picture could also see both teams missing out on the semifinal altogether. What is the current scenario? At the time of writing on the morning of Thursday (Feb 26), before the South Africa vs West Indies Super 8 clash in Group 1, both India and Pakistan sit in non-qualifying positions. Wednesday’s results in Group 2 meant Pakistan will no longer finish in the top spot and the best they can finish is runners-up. This means, for an India vs Pakistan match to happen in the semifinal, the Men in Blue will have to finish as Group 1 winners. Can India finish as Group 1 winners? Technically, India can still finish as Group 1 winners, but it will require a solid case with a specific set of results to be achieved. After Sunday’s defeat to South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav and Co can finish on a maximum of four points, meaning the Proteas and the West Indies should lose at least one match in the Super 8 stage. One part of the equation will be achieved on Thursday as South Africa and the West Indies square off in Ahmedabad. The winner of the South Africa vs West Indies match should lose on Sunday, while India should win both their matches. Assuming West Indies beat South Africa and then India beat the West Indies, the final Group 1 table will see three teams locked up on four points each (also assuming South Africa beat Zimbabwe on Sunday). ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli This will mean India, South Africa and the West Indies will finish with four points and net run rate will decide the group winners. So only victories with a big margin will see India finish as group winners and retain a chance of an India vs Pakistan clash in the semis. However, with NRR not in India’s favour and both the West Indies and Zimbabwe playing a good brand of cricket, India may achieve the points tally but may miss out on NRR. This will therefore mean that India vs Pakistan is unlikely in the semis.

Semifinalists of the T20 World Cup 2026 will be determined by the table toppers of the two Super 8 groups. According to the format, group winners will face group runners-up in the semifinal, meaning India have to finish as group winners and Pakistan as group runners-up or vice-versa.

T20 World Cup 2026: Here's why India vs Pakistan clash is unlikely in semifinal

Co-hosts Sri Lanka faced elimination from the T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 25) as they lost to New Zealand at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Excellent all-round display from Rachin Ravindra was the feature of the evening as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by 61 runs and now stand a step closer to the semis. Ravindra was excellent with the bat, scoring 32 runs while bagging four wickets with the ball.<h2>New Zealand on top</h2>Sri Lanka needed an emphatic win to stay alive but instead exited with a whimper, limping to 107-8 chasing New Zealand's 168-7. A win for New Zealand against England on Friday at the same R. Premadasa stadium would see them top the Super Eights group and qualify for the semi-finals along with Harry Brook's side. A defeat would open the door for Pakistan, who would probably need a big win against Sri Lanka in Kandy on Saturday to sneak through on net run rate.&nbsp;Sri Lanka were never in the chase as Matt Henry dismissed their leading batsman Pathum Nissanka with the first ball of the innings. Henry also removed Chairth Asalanka with the first ball of his second over to leave Sri Lanka in trouble at 6-2. Sri Lanka crawled to 20-2 at the end of the six-over power play, the lowest in the competition and Sri Lanka's second lowest ever in T20 internationals.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Part-time spinner Rachin Ravindra found turn to put the game beyond Sri Lanka with a career-best 4-27. Ravindra had a charging Kusal Mendis stumped and then removed Pavan Rathnayake in similar fashion in the same over as the sellout crowd was stunned into silence.&nbsp;"It is very embarrassing to disappoint the home crowd," said Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka.&nbsp;"We started really well, but to be honest, the Santner-McConchie and that partnership, it was a good one, which took the game away from us."&nbsp;"I think it was obviously a nice score there with the amount of spin on the ball. They squeezed us a lot," said New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>What happened in New Zealand's innings?</h2>New Zealand earlier recovered from a mini-collapse to reach 168-7. Sri Lanka were right in the game as New Zealand slumped from 84-3 to 84-6 in the space of six deliveries. But an 84-run stand off just 47 deliveries for the seventh wicket between Cole McConchie and Santner enabled them to set a tricky target on a turning pitch.&nbsp;Skipper Santner top scored with 47 off 26 balls with two fours and four sixes. McConchie, recalled to the side, posted an unbeaten 31 off 23 balls New Zealand were struggling to read Maheesh Theekshana as the spinner claimed 3-9 in his first three overs. New Zealand blasted 70 off the last four overs, including 21 off the final one from Theekshana. Pace bowler Dushmantha Chameera finished with 3-38.

Excellent all-round display from Rachin Ravindra was the feature of the evening as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by 61 runs and now stand a step closer to the semis. 

Co-hosts Sri Lanka faced elimination from the T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 25) as they lost to New Zealand at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Excellent all-round display from Rachin Ravindra was the feature of the evening as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by 61 runs and now stand a step closer to the semis. Ravindra was excellent with the bat, scoring 32 runs while bagging four wickets with the ball. New Zealand on top Sri Lanka needed an emphatic win to stay alive but instead exited with a whimper, limping to 107-8 chasing New Zealand's 168-7. A win for New Zealand against England on Friday at the same R. Premadasa stadium would see them top the Super Eights group and qualify for the semi-finals along with Harry Brook's side. A defeat would open the door for Pakistan, who would probably need a big win against Sri Lanka in Kandy on Saturday to sneak through on net run rate. Sri Lanka were never in the chase as Matt Henry dismissed their leading batsman Pathum Nissanka with the first ball of the innings. Henry also removed Chairth Asalanka with the first ball of his second over to leave Sri Lanka in trouble at 6-2. Sri Lanka crawled to 20-2 at the end of the six-over power play, the lowest in the competition and Sri Lanka's second lowest ever in T20 internationals. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Part-time spinner Rachin Ravindra found turn to put the game beyond Sri Lanka with a career-best 4-27. Ravindra had a charging Kusal Mendis stumped and then removed Pavan Rathnayake in similar fashion in the same over as the sellout crowd was stunned into silence. "It is very embarrassing to disappoint the home crowd," said Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka. "We started really well, but to be honest, the Santner-McConchie and that partnership, it was a good one, which took the game away from us." "I think it was obviously a nice score there with the amount of spin on the ball. They squeezed us a lot," said New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in New Zealand's innings? New Zealand earlier recovered from a mini-collapse to reach 168-7. Sri Lanka were right in the game as New Zealand slumped from 84-3 to 84-6 in the space of six deliveries. But an 84-run stand off just 47 deliveries for the seventh wicket between Cole McConchie and Santner enabled them to set a tricky target on a turning pitch. Skipper Santner top scored with 47 off 26 balls with two fours and four sixes. McConchie, recalled to the side, posted an unbeaten 31 off 23 balls New Zealand were struggling to read Maheesh Theekshana as the spinner claimed 3-9 in his first three overs. New Zealand blasted 70 off the last four overs, including 21 off the final one from Theekshana. Pace bowler Dushmantha Chameera finished with 3-38.

Excellent all-round display from Rachin Ravindra was the feature of the evening as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by 61 runs and now stand a step closer to the semis.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Rachin Ravindra spins New Zealand step closer to semis, Sri Lanka eliminated

India will be going head-to-head against Zimbabwe in a key T20 World Cup 2026 clash as the two meet in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26). Playing at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the stakes will be high for India as the defending champions chase a spot in the semifinal. However, a defeat for the Men in Blue will put the cat right amongst the pigeons with a defeat to South Africa on the previous Sunday and a decisive clash against the West Indies on the approaching Sunday. So, will India face T20 World Cup 2026 elimination if they lose to Zimbabwe on Thursday?<h2>Will India face elimination if they lose to Zimbabwe?</h2>As things stand, India will enter Thursday’s contest with a defeat in their previous contest against South Africa. With the Proteas and the West Indies going head-to-head early on Thursday, one of the two teams will attain four points and influence the standings. The loser of South Africa-West Indies will remain on two points.&nbsp;In case India lose to Zimbabwe, India won’t face elimination only if South Africa beat West Indies. Assuming India lose to Zimbabwe, there will be two scenarios on Sunday (Mar 1) when the four teams are again in action.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>Scenario 1: South Africa beat West Indies, India lose to Zimbabwe</h2>In the above scenario, South Africa will enter the final match day on Sunday with four points, followed by West Indies and Zimbabwe (both on two points). India, with two defeats in Super 8, will enter the final day with no points. In this case, India must beat the West Indies in the head-to-head clash by a significant margin and improve their net run rate (NRR) while hoping for South Africa to beat Zimbabwe.&nbsp;In this case, India, West Indies and Zimbabwe will finish the Super 8 stage with two points each, with NRR deciding second spot, while South Africa will reach the semis as group winners. This means India will enter the final day of the Super 8 stage with a chance to make the semis despite a defeat to Zimbabwe.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>Scenario 2: West Indies beat South, India lose to Zimbabwe</h2>In scenario two, the West Indies will enter the final day with four points, while South Africa and Zimbabwe will have two points each. India, as assumed, will enter the final match day with no points to their name. Since South Africa and Zimbabwe will be playing in the head-to-head clash, the winner of the clash will finish with four points, while the loser will enter with two points. This means, if the West Indies beat South Africa and India lose to Zimbabwe, it will be curtains for the defending champions.

As things stand, India will enter Thursday’s contest with a defeat in their previous contest against South Africa. With the Proteas and the West Indies going head-to-head early on Thursday, one of the two teams will attain four points and influence the standings. 

India will be going head-to-head against Zimbabwe in a key T20 World Cup 2026 clash as the two meet in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26). Playing at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the stakes will be high for India as the defending champions chase a spot in the semifinal. However, a defeat for the Men in Blue will put the cat right amongst the pigeons with a defeat to South Africa on the previous Sunday and a decisive clash against the West Indies on the approaching Sunday. So, will India face T20 World Cup 2026 elimination if they lose to Zimbabwe on Thursday? Will India face elimination if they lose to Zimbabwe? As things stand, India will enter Thursday’s contest with a defeat in their previous contest against South Africa. With the Proteas and the West Indies going head-to-head early on Thursday, one of the two teams will attain four points and influence the standings. The loser of South Africa-West Indies will remain on two points. In case India lose to Zimbabwe, India won’t face elimination only if South Africa beat West Indies. Assuming India lose to Zimbabwe, there will be two scenarios on Sunday (Mar 1) when the four teams are again in action. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Scenario 1: South Africa beat West Indies, India lose to Zimbabwe In the above scenario, South Africa will enter the final match day on Sunday with four points, followed by West Indies and Zimbabwe (both on two points). India, with two defeats in Super 8, will enter the final day with no points. In this case, India must beat the West Indies in the head-to-head clash by a significant margin and improve their net run rate (NRR) while hoping for South Africa to beat Zimbabwe. In this case, India, West Indies and Zimbabwe will finish the Super 8 stage with two points each, with NRR deciding second spot, while South Africa will reach the semis as group winners. This means India will enter the final day of the Super 8 stage with a chance to make the semis despite a defeat to Zimbabwe. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Scenario 2: West Indies beat South, India lose to Zimbabwe In scenario two, the West Indies will enter the final day with four points, while South Africa and Zimbabwe will have two points each. India, as assumed, will enter the final match day with no points to their name. Since South Africa and Zimbabwe will be playing in the head-to-head clash, the winner of the clash will finish with four points, while the loser will enter with two points. This means, if the West Indies beat South Africa and India lose to Zimbabwe, it will be curtains for the defending champions.

As things stand, India will enter Thursday’s contest with a defeat in their previous contest against South Africa. With the Proteas and the West Indies going head-to-head early on Thursday, one of the two teams will attain four points and influence the standings.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026 scenarios: Will India face elimination if they lose to Zimbabwe? Here's what we know

Team India will look to put their disappointing outing against South Africa behind them as they take on surprise package Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup on Thursday (Feb 26). Having finally seen their 12-match winning streak come to an end, India will take on Zimbabwe in Chennai as fans cast their eyes on a comeback trail. However, out-of-favour batter, Sanju Samson, will also be looking to eye a return to the Playing XI after he was seen breaking the sweat in the nets.<h2>Samson in Playing XI for Zimbabwe clash?</h2>While nothing is confirmed, it is thought that Samson could be handed a chance to impress the management. Speaking on the eve of the clash, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak opened up on Samson’s inclusion. The wicketkeeper-batter was spotted in the nets and looked busy along with Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, who are currently India’s first-choice openers.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;“So, one thing that normally in every net, Abhishek does not bat to start with. He always bats in a second or third pair. So that's one thing. Sanju would normally always bat if we have that space because Abhishek doesn't bat and Sanju is a third opener and a wicket keeper so he bats anywhere. Sometimes he wants to do some drills and he goes behind and do things, that time he doesn't. So that's not an indication. Yes, definitely there will be thought about playing him, there is no doubt. But nets doesn't give any indication, I don't think. So, I don't think that is. But yes, there will be,” India batting coach Kotak said in the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;Kotak also spoke on Rinku, who was back in North India to attend to his father, who is currently under a life support system. However, at the time of writing, Rinku was on his way back to Chennai and will join the squad ahead of the Zimbabwe clash.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;“And Rinku, his father wasn't well so he went back and I think he is coming back today evening. So, hopefully he will be back today evening,” Kotak added.&nbsp;India take on Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26) as the match will start at 7:00 p.m. with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m.

Sanju Samson could be handed a chance to impress the management ahead of Zimbabwe clash. Speaking on the eve of the clash, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak opened up on Samson’s inclusion. 

Team India will look to put their disappointing outing against South Africa behind them as they take on surprise package Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup on Thursday (Feb 26). Having finally seen their 12-match winning streak come to an end, India will take on Zimbabwe in Chennai as fans cast their eyes on a comeback trail. However, out-of-favour batter, Sanju Samson, will also be looking to eye a return to the Playing XI after he was seen breaking the sweat in the nets. Samson in Playing XI for Zimbabwe clash? While nothing is confirmed, it is thought that Samson could be handed a chance to impress the management. Speaking on the eve of the clash, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak opened up on Samson’s inclusion. The wicketkeeper-batter was spotted in the nets and looked busy along with Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, who are currently India’s first-choice openers. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli “So, one thing that normally in every net, Abhishek does not bat to start with. He always bats in a second or third pair. So that's one thing. Sanju would normally always bat if we have that space because Abhishek doesn't bat and Sanju is a third opener and a wicket keeper so he bats anywhere. Sometimes he wants to do some drills and he goes behind and do things, that time he doesn't. So that's not an indication. Yes, definitely there will be thought about playing him, there is no doubt. But nets doesn't give any indication, I don't think. So, I don't think that is. But yes, there will be,” India batting coach Kotak said in the pre-match press conference. Kotak also spoke on Rinku, who was back in North India to attend to his father, who is currently under a life support system. However, at the time of writing, Rinku was on his way back to Chennai and will join the squad ahead of the Zimbabwe clash. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds “And Rinku, his father wasn't well so he went back and I think he is coming back today evening. So, hopefully he will be back today evening,” Kotak added. India take on Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26) as the match will start at 7:00 p.m. with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m.

Sanju Samson could be handed a chance to impress the management ahead of Zimbabwe clash. Speaking on the eve of the clash, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak opened up on Samson’s inclusion.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Sanju Samson back for Zimbabwe clash? Here's what batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said

History could be scripted in Indian cricket as Jammu &amp; Kashmir are currently in the middle of a monumental Ranji Trophy final. Playing at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli, J&amp;K could write a chapter never written before if they win the Ranji Trophy final. However, that achievement could come down to a certain set of results as both J&amp;K and Karnataka go head-to-head in the summit clash. The part of the equation also includes a draw, which could decide where the title could head as the anxious wait continues.<h2>J&amp;K on the cusp of history</h2>On Day 2 of their maiden Ranji Trophy final, J&amp;K closed at 527/6 with Shubham Pundir top scoring with 121. There were healthy contributions from Yawer Hassan (88), Dogra (70), Abdul Samad (61), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70) and Sahil Lotra (unbeaten 57). Interestingly, only opener Qamran Iqbal (6) missed out on scoring a fifty in the J&amp;K innings.&nbsp;As things stand, J&amp;K can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title in case they get a first innings lead and the match ends in a draw. A draw looks more favourable considering there are three outright innings still to be played while J&amp;K are still batting in their first innings.<h2>What happens if J&amp;K vs Karnataka Ranji Trophy final ends in draw?</h2>With three days remaining, it is unlikely that the Ranji Trophy final will have an outright winner. It is also likely that J&amp;K could bat on the majority of Day 3, meaning they will give themselves a realistic chance of a first-innings lead. A lead in the first innings could see J&amp;K in pole position as current rules state – in case of a draw, the team with the first innings lead will be handed over the title.&nbsp;This means, in case of a draw an assuming J&amp;K take the first innings lead, they can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>Can Karnataka still rescue?</h2>Yes, Karnataka will have their fate in their own hands; however, they will have to lay a solid foundation for any comeback. Assuming J&amp;K put a total in excess of 600 in the first innings, the eight-time champions will need to give a real go in their first innings and, against all odds, gain a lead. However, any failure to do so will see J&amp;K in pole position, as a draw will also favour the North Indian side.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Karnataka will still have the opportunity to win the Ranji Trophy even if they concede the lead at the end of the first innings. However, that will be an uphill task as they will have to win the match outright, meaning they will have to bowl out J&amp;K in quick succession and then chase down the total before the end of play on Day 5.&nbsp;The chances of the second scenario remain slim, giving J&amp;K a mental advantage heading into the final phase of the clash.

J&K can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title in case they get a first innings lead and the match ends in a draw. A draw looks more favourable considering there are three outright innings still to be played while J&K are still batting in their first innings.

History could be scripted in Indian cricket as Jammu & Kashmir are currently in the middle of a monumental Ranji Trophy final. Playing at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli, J&K could write a chapter never written before if they win the Ranji Trophy final. However, that achievement could come down to a certain set of results as both J&K and Karnataka go head-to-head in the summit clash. The part of the equation also includes a draw, which could decide where the title could head as the anxious wait continues. J&K on the cusp of history On Day 2 of their maiden Ranji Trophy final, J&K closed at 527/6 with Shubham Pundir top scoring with 121. There were healthy contributions from Yawer Hassan (88), Dogra (70), Abdul Samad (61), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70) and Sahil Lotra (unbeaten 57). Interestingly, only opener Qamran Iqbal (6) missed out on scoring a fifty in the J&K innings. As things stand, J&K can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title in case they get a first innings lead and the match ends in a draw. A draw looks more favourable considering there are three outright innings still to be played while J&K are still batting in their first innings. What happens if J&K vs Karnataka Ranji Trophy final ends in draw? With three days remaining, it is unlikely that the Ranji Trophy final will have an outright winner. It is also likely that J&K could bat on the majority of Day 3, meaning they will give themselves a realistic chance of a first-innings lead. A lead in the first innings could see J&K in pole position as current rules state – in case of a draw, the team with the first innings lead will be handed over the title. This means, in case of a draw an assuming J&K take the first innings lead, they can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Can Karnataka still rescue? Yes, Karnataka will have their fate in their own hands; however, they will have to lay a solid foundation for any comeback. Assuming J&K put a total in excess of 600 in the first innings, the eight-time champions will need to give a real go in their first innings and, against all odds, gain a lead. However, any failure to do so will see J&K in pole position, as a draw will also favour the North Indian side. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Karnataka will still have the opportunity to win the Ranji Trophy even if they concede the lead at the end of the first innings. However, that will be an uphill task as they will have to win the match outright, meaning they will have to bowl out J&K in quick succession and then chase down the total before the end of play on Day 5. The chances of the second scenario remain slim, giving J&K a mental advantage heading into the final phase of the clash.

J&amp;K can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title in case they get a first innings lead and the match ends in a draw. A draw looks more favourable considering there are three outright innings still to be played while J&amp;K are still batting in their first innings.

What happens if J&K vs Karnataka Ranji Trophy final ends in a draw? Details here

It’s not only India that faces a do-or-die situation on Thursday in the T20 World Cup, but perhaps its attacking opener Abhishek Sharma too, who hasn’t yet clicked in his maiden ICC event. While he remains confident to deploy his natural game despite getting out on a zero thrice thus far in this competition, South African legend Faf du Plessis warned him against playing into the opposition’s hands. Having tasted tremendous success at the top himself, Faf urged the ranked number one T20I batter to stop attacking impulsively and instead be smarter with his shot selection.&nbsp;Thrice in four innings, Abhishek got out playing an attacking shot; even though he either missed or miscued most deliveries he got out to, he timed one to perfection against the USA, only for the deep cover fielder to grab it successfully. That dismissal, however, indicated how the oppositions have begun to realise Abhishek’s shot range and his dismissal areas.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Tactically, the game has got so smart with analysts and the way that they are trying to get you out," du Plessis said on ESPNcricinfo Timeout. "What I've picked up of late with Abhishek is people are now putting a deep point out and a deep extra cover out because he's so good at hitting the ball through the offside.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-zim-super-8-chennai-rinku-singh-set-to-rejoin-india-squad-confirms-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-1772019439656">Welcome back Rinku Singh! Ace batter to rejoin India squad ahead of Zimbabwe Super 8 game</a> &nbsp;Du Plessis has urged Abhishek to make up his mind about either backing his strengths or avoiding making an older mistake, or taking a smarter call to avoid going for a boundary and going for singles or doubles.&nbsp; &nbsp;"So the key is to make sure that when you get to the crease, you're aware of what the opposition is trying to do. How are they trying to get me out? And then your decision as a batter - am I still sticking to my strengths? Am I trying to whack the ball for six over point, over cover? Or am I trying to bring the risk a little bit down and hit the ball on the ground for one or two, or try to score in a different area? Knowing Abhishek, you're probably trying to whack it for six over cover because he hits the ball so clean. But that's the decisions you have to make as a batter,” he continued.<h3>Slower balls – Abhishek’s weakness</h3>Abhishek likes to have the ball come onto his bat nicely, and should that not happen, a reckless reaction could cost him his wicket – something that happened against South Africa in Ahmedabad. &nbsp;"The other thing I've picked up is that teams are bowling a lot of slower balls at him, and it's because he's got such a beautiful swing. What you're trying to do with guys that have such a long swing is you're trying to take pace off the ball. So once again, his decision is, how do I counter guys when they're bowling it slow?” he added.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Abhishek is likely to retain his place for the Zimbabwe fixture at the top despite a horror slump, with Sanju Samson in the fray to return to the playing XI.&nbsp;

Is reckless intent costing Abhishek Sharma? Faf du Plessis identifies the "tactical error" behind the opener's T20 World Cup slump and urges a smarter approach ahead of the Zimbabwe clash.

It’s not only India that faces a do-or-die situation on Thursday in the T20 World Cup, but perhaps its attacking opener Abhishek Sharma too, who hasn’t yet clicked in his maiden ICC event. While he remains confident to deploy his natural game despite getting out on a zero thrice thus far in this competition, South African legend Faf du Plessis warned him against playing into the opposition’s hands. Having tasted tremendous success at the top himself, Faf urged the ranked number one T20I batter to stop attacking impulsively and instead be smarter with his shot selection. Thrice in four innings, Abhishek got out playing an attacking shot; even though he either missed or miscued most deliveries he got out to, he timed one to perfection against the USA, only for the deep cover fielder to grab it successfully. That dismissal, however, indicated how the oppositions have begun to realise Abhishek’s shot range and his dismissal areas. "Tactically, the game has got so smart with analysts and the way that they are trying to get you out," du Plessis said on ESPNcricinfo Timeout. "What I've picked up of late with Abhishek is people are now putting a deep point out and a deep extra cover out because he's so good at hitting the ball through the offside. Also read | Welcome back Rinku Singh! Ace batter to rejoin India squad ahead of Zimbabwe Super 8 game Du Plessis has urged Abhishek to make up his mind about either backing his strengths or avoiding making an older mistake, or taking a smarter call to avoid going for a boundary and going for singles or doubles. "So the key is to make sure that when you get to the crease, you're aware of what the opposition is trying to do. How are they trying to get me out? And then your decision as a batter - am I still sticking to my strengths? Am I trying to whack the ball for six over point, over cover? Or am I trying to bring the risk a little bit down and hit the ball on the ground for one or two, or try to score in a different area? Knowing Abhishek, you're probably trying to whack it for six over cover because he hits the ball so clean. But that's the decisions you have to make as a batter,” he continued. Slower balls – Abhishek’s weakness Abhishek likes to have the ball come onto his bat nicely, and should that not happen, a reckless reaction could cost him his wicket – something that happened against South Africa in Ahmedabad. "The other thing I've picked up is that teams are bowling a lot of slower balls at him, and it's because he's got such a beautiful swing. What you're trying to do with guys that have such a long swing is you're trying to take pace off the ball. So once again, his decision is, how do I counter guys when they're bowling it slow?” he added. Meanwhile, Abhishek is likely to retain his place for the Zimbabwe fixture at the top despite a horror slump, with Sanju Samson in the fray to return to the playing XI.

Is reckless intent costing Abhishek Sharma? Faf du Plessis identifies the "tactical error" behind the opener's T20 World Cup slump and urges a smarter approach ahead of the Zimbabwe clash.

‘Stop Attacking Blindly’: Faf du Plessis identifies one tactical error costing Abhishek Sharma at T20 WC

Zimbabwe last played against India in India in March 2002, 24 years ago, and the world looked completely different then. With the two teams set to meet in a crucial Super 8 match in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26), let’s look at five advancements in cricket's screening experience.

Zimbabwe last played against India in India in March 2002, 24 years ago, and the world looked completely different then. With the two teams set to meet in a crucial Super 8 match in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 26), let’s look at five advancements in cricket's screening experience.

No DRS, Box TVs, and No iPhone: The last time Zimbabwe played in India, the world looked like this

Jammu &amp; Kashmir could be scripting history in the coming days as they are in the middle of a historic Ranji Trophy final (India’s premier red-ball cricket tournament). While the historic moment remains at arm’s length on Wednesday, it was a controversial moment on Day 2 of the final that made headlines. In an apparent headbutt to Karnataka's substitute fielder KV Aneesh, J&amp;K captain Paras Dogra has been handed a 50 per cent match fee fine by match referee Vengalil Narayanan Kutty.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Scenes in Ranji Trophy final! Paras Dogra, J&amp;K captain, headbutts KV Aneesh, substitute Karnataka fielder. Obviously physical contact not on in cricket. Got me wondering - in general &amp; not for this - how much verbal provocation should be allowed too...<a href="https://t.co/EcPFC49wUi">pic.twitter.com/EcPFC49wUi</a>&mdash; Saurabh Somani (@saurabh_42) <a href="https://twitter.com/saurabh_42/status/2026588103516016939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Dogra fined 50 per cent</h2>In a video going viral on Wednesday (Feb 25), Dogra was apparently seen headbutting Aneesh while J&amp;K were batting. While the video did not showcase the scale of the headbutt, Karnataka players were seen complaining to on-field umpires Rohan Pandit and Ulhas Gandhe. It was interesting to see that Dogra was furious with Aneesh despite his effort going for a four through the slip region. Soon after the four was given, Dogra approached Aneesh and tried confronting him, during which the apparent headbutt occurred.&nbsp;The incident was later reported to the match referee, who in turn fined Dogra 50 per cent match fees according to the prominent cricket website Cricbuzz. The fine was the only punishment issued to the J&amp;K captain, meaning he avoided further sanctions, including a suspension.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>J&amp;K on cusp of history</h2>On Day 2 of their maiden Ranji Trophy final, J&amp;K closed at 527/6 with Shubham Pundir top scoring with 121. There were healthy contributions from Yawer Hassan (88), Dogra (70), Abdul Samad (61), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70) and Sahil Lotra (unbeaten 57). Interestingly, only opener Qamran Iqbal (6) missed out on scoring a fifty in the J&amp;K innings.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;As things stand, J&amp;K can seal their maiden Ranji Trophy title in case they get a first innings lead and the match ends in a draw. A draw looks more favourable considering there are three outright innings still to be played while J&amp;K are still batting in their first innings.&nbsp;If J&amp;K win the title, it will be the first title for the North Indian Union Territory, which has long been in the shadows of other cricketing powerhouse States and Union Territories in India.

In a video going viral on Wednesday (Feb 25), Dogra was apparently seen headbutting Aneesh while J&K were batting. While the video did not showcase the scale of the headbutt, Karnataka players were seen complaining to on-field umpires Rohan Pandit and Ulhas Gandhe.

Jammu & Kashmir could be scripting history in the coming days as they are in the middle of a historic Ranji Trophy final (India’s premier red-ball cricket tournament). While the historic moment remains at arm’s length on Wednesday, it was a controversial moment on Day 2 of the final that made headlines. In an apparent headbutt to Karnataka's substitute fielder KV Aneesh, J&K captain Paras Dogra has been handed a 50 per cent match fee fine by match referee Vengalil Narayanan Kutty.

In a video going viral on Wednesday (Feb 25), Dogra was apparently seen headbutting Aneesh while J&amp;K were batting. While the video did not showcase the scale of the headbutt, Karnataka players were seen complaining to on-field umpires Rohan Pandit and Ulhas Gandhe.

Ranji Trophy final: Paras Dogra fined 50% match fee for headbutting Karnataka fielder - WATCH

India has received a massive boost ahead of its crucial T20 World Cup Super 8 encounter against Zimbabwe, with the team’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirming Rinku Singh’s availability for India’s second game. Rinku flew home to see his ailing father, admitted to a Delhi NCR hospital and missed Tuesday’s training session in Chennai. In Rinku’s absence, backup gloveman Sanju Samson prepped hard for a potential comeback to the XI; however, with Rinku rejoining the squad, the management will have to work on playing the best for the must-win game.&nbsp;Speaking to the media on the eve of the game in Chennai, Kotak said, "Rinku Singh is joining the team this evening; he went back home because his father is not well." &nbsp;Meanwhile, Rinku wasn’t having the best time with the bat in this tournament, having failed to impress during his brief outings. Even though he whacked sixes in the last over against Pakistan and the Netherlands, the left-hander has lacked clarity in his role at number seven, hitting just 24 runs in five outings at an average of mere eight. His strike rate of 82 hasn’t helped the cause either. &nbsp;However, with Team India’s back against the wall, the decision-makers must make some bold calls for the Zimbabwe game to ensure Team India is playing its best XI in this fixture and winning it convincingly, which is one of the two parameters required to confirm a place in the semifinal.<h2>How can India qualify for the T20 WC semis?</h2>Team India sits in third place with one loss and two games pending, and above that, has -3.800 as NRR. For them to improve that, India must beat Zimbabwe (in Chennai) and the West Indies (in Kolkata) by significant margins and do their bit, while also hoping for a few scenarios to work in their favour.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-semifinal-qualification-chances-at-t20-world-cup-beat-sri-lanka-and-pray-for-other-results-england-new-zealand-sri-lanka-1772016324863">Pakistan’s semifinal chances at T20 World Cup: Beat Sri Lanka and pray for other results</a> &nbsp;Should India win their remaining two matches, but West Indies beat South Africa, and the Proteas beat Zimbabwe later, India could find itself on the brink of shock elimination. On the other hand, England has qualified for the semifinal, becoming the first and only team thus far to do so.

Huge boost for Team India! Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirms Rinku Singh will rejoin the squad tonight ahead of the must-win Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe.

India has received a massive boost ahead of its crucial T20 World Cup Super 8 encounter against Zimbabwe, with the team’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirming Rinku Singh’s availability for India’s second game. Rinku flew home to see his ailing father, admitted to a Delhi NCR hospital and missed Tuesday’s training session in Chennai. In Rinku’s absence, backup gloveman Sanju Samson prepped hard for a potential comeback to the XI; however, with Rinku rejoining the squad, the management will have to work on playing the best for the must-win game. Speaking to the media on the eve of the game in Chennai, Kotak said, "Rinku Singh is joining the team this evening; he went back home because his father is not well." Meanwhile, Rinku wasn’t having the best time with the bat in this tournament, having failed to impress during his brief outings. Even though he whacked sixes in the last over against Pakistan and the Netherlands, the left-hander has lacked clarity in his role at number seven, hitting just 24 runs in five outings at an average of mere eight. His strike rate of 82 hasn’t helped the cause either. However, with Team India’s back against the wall, the decision-makers must make some bold calls for the Zimbabwe game to ensure Team India is playing its best XI in this fixture and winning it convincingly, which is one of the two parameters required to confirm a place in the semifinal. How can India qualify for the T20 WC semis? Team India sits in third place with one loss and two games pending, and above that, has -3.800 as NRR. For them to improve that, India must beat Zimbabwe (in Chennai) and the West Indies (in Kolkata) by significant margins and do their bit, while also hoping for a few scenarios to work in their favour. Also read | Pakistan’s semifinal chances at T20 World Cup: Beat Sri Lanka and pray for other results Should India win their remaining two matches, but West Indies beat South Africa, and the Proteas beat Zimbabwe later, India could find itself on the brink of shock elimination. On the other hand, England has qualified for the semifinal, becoming the first and only team thus far to do so.

Huge boost for Team India! Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirms Rinku Singh will rejoin the squad tonight ahead of the must-win Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe.

Welcome back Rinku Singh! Ace batter to rejoin India squad ahead of Zimbabwe Super 8 game

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has ensured there will be no discrimination in The Hundred for players of different nationalities as it released a statement on Wednesday (Feb 25). The Hundred, England and Wales’ premier white-ball competition, has been in focus with India-based owners potentially threatening a boycott of Pakistan players in the tournament. However, any possibility of the same has been erased after the ECB released a statement.<h2>ECB releases a statement</h2>"The Hundred was established to reach new audiences, grow the game of cricket and ensure that everyone - regardless of their ethnicity, gender, faith, nationality or other - can feel they belong in our sport. This has been a guiding principle from the outset and remains at the heart of everything we do," an ECB statement read.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;"As the governing body responsible for running the tournament, the ECB is committed to ensuring there is no place for discrimination, and has regulations in place to take robust action to tackle any such conduct. Players must not be excluded on the grounds of their nationality.&nbsp;"All eight teams commit to selection being based solely on cricketing performance, availability, and the needs of each team.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;ECB’s commitment towards players of different nationalities assures the inclusion of Pakistani players in The Hundred. Teams like Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave and Sunrisers Leeds are owned by Indian businessmen, raising a concern among Pakistani players. The auctions for The Hundred are set to be held in March, with Indian owners likely to be present and bid for players across the globe.&nbsp;A total of 67 Pakistan players - 63 men and four women - have submitted themselves for the auction across March 11-12 in London, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah.

A total of 67 Pakistan players - 63 men and four women - have submitted themselves for the auction across March 11-12 in London, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has ensured there will be no discrimination in The Hundred for players of different nationalities as it released a statement on Wednesday (Feb 25). The Hundred, England and Wales’ premier white-ball competition, has been in focus with India-based owners potentially threatening a boycott of Pakistan players in the tournament. However, any possibility of the same has been erased after the ECB released a statement. ECB releases a statement "The Hundred was established to reach new audiences, grow the game of cricket and ensure that everyone - regardless of their ethnicity, gender, faith, nationality or other - can feel they belong in our sport. This has been a guiding principle from the outset and remains at the heart of everything we do," an ECB statement read. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds "As the governing body responsible for running the tournament, the ECB is committed to ensuring there is no place for discrimination, and has regulations in place to take robust action to tackle any such conduct. Players must not be excluded on the grounds of their nationality. "All eight teams commit to selection being based solely on cricketing performance, availability, and the needs of each team. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli ECB’s commitment towards players of different nationalities assures the inclusion of Pakistani players in The Hundred. Teams like Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave and Sunrisers Leeds are owned by Indian businessmen, raising a concern among Pakistani players. The auctions for The Hundred are set to be held in March, with Indian owners likely to be present and bid for players across the globe. A total of 67 Pakistan players - 63 men and four women - have submitted themselves for the auction across March 11-12 in London, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah.

A total of 67 Pakistan players - 63 men and four women - have submitted themselves for the auction across March 11-12 in London, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah.

'Players must not be excluded': ECB clears stand, ensures no place for discrimination in The Hundred

Pakistan suffered their first loss in the Super 8s against England in Kandy on Tuesday (Feb 24) by two wickets; however, what adds pressure to their quest for a semifinal berth is the number of games left and their standings on the points table. With just one point in two games, considering their washed-out fixture against New Zealand, Pakistan sit in third place with -0.461 NRR, making it highly challenging for them to confirm a semifinal spot from here. So how can Pakistan qualify for the T20 World Cup semifinal after narrowly losing to England? Let’s check out all scenarios.<h3>The easy and simple route</h3>For Pakistan to qualify for the semifinal, they must at least collect three points. With England already punching their ticket to the final four for the fifth straight time, Pakistan has a chance to become the second team from this group to do so.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/timely-shakeup-ravi-shastri-welcomes-india-loss-as-ricky-ponting-urges-best-xi-for-zimbabwe-match-t20-world-cup-1772008353498">'Timely Shakeup': Shastri welcomes India’s loss as Ponting urges ‘best XI’ for Zimbabwe match</a> &nbsp;The easiest route is for New Zealand to lose their remaining two matches against Sri Lanka and England, respectively, and Pakistan to beat the tournament’s co-host in their final Super 8 tie to advance. This way, England will top Group B with six points from three matches and Pakistan will have three from as many games.<h3>The Points Tie</h3>In another scenario, if New Zealand beat Sri Lanka and lose to England or vice-versa, while also considering Pakistan will beat Sri Lanka, then New Zealand and Pakistan will share three points each. Everything will then fall to the NRR, with the team having a better one to advance through. &nbsp;That way, Pakistan must then beat Sri Lanka by a massive margin to improve their NRR and stay ahead of New Zealand to qualify for the semis. For that to happen, England must also beat the Kiwis by a significant margin and puncture their NRR, helping Pakistan to finish second in the standings. &nbsp;However, should New Zealand beat both Sri Lanka and England, they will become the second team from this Group to qualify for the semis. As things stand, England is the only team to qualify for the T20 World Cup semis, with three spots remaining. In the other group, Team South Africa leads the charts, with the tournament’s co-host India finding themselves in a spot for a place in the final four.&nbsp;

Can Pakistan still reach the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals? Following the loss to England, Pakistan must defeat Sri Lanka and hope New Zealand slips up. See all qualification scenarios here.

Pakistan suffered their first loss in the Super 8s against England in Kandy on Tuesday (Feb 24) by two wickets; however, what adds pressure to their quest for a semifinal berth is the number of games left and their standings on the points table. With just one point in two games, considering their washed-out fixture against New Zealand, Pakistan sit in third place with -0.461 NRR, making it highly challenging for them to confirm a semifinal spot from here. So how can Pakistan qualify for the T20 World Cup semifinal after narrowly losing to England? Let’s check out all scenarios. The easy and simple route For Pakistan to qualify for the semifinal, they must at least collect three points. With England already punching their ticket to the final four for the fifth straight time, Pakistan has a chance to become the second team from this group to do so. Also read | 'Timely Shakeup': Shastri welcomes India’s loss as Ponting urges ‘best XI’ for Zimbabwe match The easiest route is for New Zealand to lose their remaining two matches against Sri Lanka and England, respectively, and Pakistan to beat the tournament’s co-host in their final Super 8 tie to advance. This way, England will top Group B with six points from three matches and Pakistan will have three from as many games. The Points Tie In another scenario, if New Zealand beat Sri Lanka and lose to England or vice-versa, while also considering Pakistan will beat Sri Lanka, then New Zealand and Pakistan will share three points each. Everything will then fall to the NRR, with the team having a better one to advance through. That way, Pakistan must then beat Sri Lanka by a massive margin to improve their NRR and stay ahead of New Zealand to qualify for the semis. For that to happen, England must also beat the Kiwis by a significant margin and puncture their NRR, helping Pakistan to finish second in the standings. However, should New Zealand beat both Sri Lanka and England, they will become the second team from this Group to qualify for the semis. As things stand, England is the only team to qualify for the T20 World Cup semis, with three spots remaining. In the other group, Team South Africa leads the charts, with the tournament’s co-host India finding themselves in a spot for a place in the final four.

Can Pakistan still reach the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals? Following the loss to England, Pakistan must defeat Sri Lanka and hope New Zealand slips up. See all qualification scenarios here.

Pakistan’s semifinal chances at T20 World Cup: Beat Sri Lanka and pray for other results

Former cricket greats Ravi Shastri and Ricky Ponting shared their views on Team India’s shock loss to South Africa in their first Super 8 game while also addressing their chances against high-flying Zimbabwe in their next, a do-or-die fixture. While Shastri welcomed a timely setback for India, which has put their semifinal spot in jeopardy, Ponting urged India to return to basics and pick their best XI for the Chennai wicket. The two, however, agreed on bringing back Axar Patel in the XI for this crucial match.&nbsp;India conceded its first T20 World Cup match after 12 successive wins across two editions; it was also their first in ICC white-ball events since the 2023 ODI World Cup final, sending shockwaves among a billion fans. Shastri said after you win 12 matches back-to-back, you are bound to lose one, and it’s better that India suffered this wrath in the Super 8s, where they still have two shots at redemption; otherwise, their title defence would have been over (had it happened in the knockouts).&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-zim-india-super-8-survival-drill-in-chennai-sanju-samson-in-focus-as-abhishek-sharma-turns-leggie-rinku-singh-family-emergency-1772004070801">IND vs ZIM: India’s Super 8 survival drill in Chennai; Samson in focus as Abhishek turns leggie</a>&nbsp;“You win 12 matches on the trot, there's bound to be an off day. And I'm glad it has come early. It might just be the shakeup India needed,” Shastri said on the latest episode of The ICC Review. “It might also make them rethink their strategy as to the composition of the side going ahead.&nbsp;"They would have learned from that last experience that they're not going to take things for granted because in this Super Eight if you lose one more (match), then you're really putting yourself under serious pressure,” he continued.<h3>‘Return to basics and pick Axar Patel’</h3>Discussing Axar Patel’s omission from the XI for the South Africa game, Ponting noted how his inclusion in the next could elevate India’s chances of punching the semis ticket in this tournament co-hosted by them and Sri Lanka. Should India beat Zimbabwe, they must also defeat the unbeaten West Indies in Kolkata to do their part and wait for other results to fall in their favour.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Listening to the commentary, the reason Axar didn’t play (against South Africa) is because of the left-handers on the opposition side. But there's still some right-handers there. It just comes down to the art of the captain of being able to use Axar at the right time,” Ponting said of Axar’s absence from the playing XI. “I would be going back to the basics. I'd be just looking at their lineup. Who's our best XI for the conditions in Chennai?&nbsp;“If that has Axar Patel in it, great. If it has Kuldeep Yadav in it, that's the other one that I'd be thinking about bringing back because it doesn't matter with him if it's left-hand or right-hand. He can bowl wrong ones and spin the ball away from the left-hand outside edge of both those batters,” he noted.

Shastri calls India’s loss a "timely shakeup" while Ponting urges a return to basics. Get the latest on Samson, Abhishek's new role, and India's must-win XI.

Former cricket greats Ravi Shastri and Ricky Ponting shared their views on Team India’s shock loss to South Africa in their first Super 8 game while also addressing their chances against high-flying Zimbabwe in their next, a do-or-die fixture. While Shastri welcomed a timely setback for India, which has put their semifinal spot in jeopardy, Ponting urged India to return to basics and pick their best XI for the Chennai wicket. The two, however, agreed on bringing back Axar Patel in the XI for this crucial match. India conceded its first T20 World Cup match after 12 successive wins across two editions; it was also their first in ICC white-ball events since the 2023 ODI World Cup final, sending shockwaves among a billion fans. Shastri said after you win 12 matches back-to-back, you are bound to lose one, and it’s better that India suffered this wrath in the Super 8s, where they still have two shots at redemption; otherwise, their title defence would have been over (had it happened in the knockouts). Also read | IND vs ZIM: India’s Super 8 survival drill in Chennai; Samson in focus as Abhishek turns leggie “You win 12 matches on the trot, there's bound to be an off day. And I'm glad it has come early. It might just be the shakeup India needed,” Shastri said on the latest episode of The ICC Review. “It might also make them rethink their strategy as to the composition of the side going ahead. "They would have learned from that last experience that they're not going to take things for granted because in this Super Eight if you lose one more (match), then you're really putting yourself under serious pressure,” he continued. ‘Return to basics and pick Axar Patel’ Discussing Axar Patel’s omission from the XI for the South Africa game, Ponting noted how his inclusion in the next could elevate India’s chances of punching the semis ticket in this tournament co-hosted by them and Sri Lanka. Should India beat Zimbabwe, they must also defeat the unbeaten West Indies in Kolkata to do their part and wait for other results to fall in their favour. “Listening to the commentary, the reason Axar didn’t play (against South Africa) is because of the left-handers on the opposition side. But there's still some right-handers there. It just comes down to the art of the captain of being able to use Axar at the right time,” Ponting said of Axar’s absence from the playing XI. “I would be going back to the basics. I'd be just looking at their lineup. Who's our best XI for the conditions in Chennai? “If that has Axar Patel in it, great. If it has Kuldeep Yadav in it, that's the other one that I'd be thinking about bringing back because it doesn't matter with him if it's left-hand or right-hand. He can bowl wrong ones and spin the ball away from the left-hand outside edge of both those batters,” he noted.

Shastri calls India’s loss a "timely shakeup" while Ponting urges a return to basics. Get the latest on Samson, Abhishek's new role, and India's must-win XI.

'Timely Shakeup': Shastri welcomes India’s loss as Ponting urges ‘best XI’ for Zimbabwe match

Team India has begun its survival drill in Chennai ahead of a crucial do-or-die game against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup Super 8 tie. Sitting on the brink of a shock elimination since losing to South Africa in Ahmedabad by 76 runs, Team India must iron out their issues, including Abhishek Sharma’s form and sort their playing XI. While opener Abhishek turned into a leg-spinner in Chennai nets on Tuesday evening, Samson hogged the limelight as Rinku Singh’s potential replacement for the next game.&nbsp;The latest reports suggest that Rinku left the Indian camp to be with his ailing father, and is unlikely to return in time for the Zimbabwe fixture on Thursday (Feb 26). Considering he remains absent, India has a backup option in Samson, who batted alongside Ishan Kishan in Tuesday's training, honing his skills against the turning ball. While he is likely to walk into the playing XI, opening with Abhishek, with Ishan coming in at number three, India could make another change by bringing in Axar Patel for Washington Sundar.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">High intensity and focus 🔛 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> putting in the work ahead of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvZIM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvZIM</a> 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MenInBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MenInBlue</a> <a href="https://t.co/zjOtB9m7jS">pic.twitter.com/zjOtB9m7jS</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/2026509305353318615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-harry-brook-maiden-hundred-seals-semis-spot-for-england-as-pakistan-on-brink-of-elimination-super-8-pallekele-1771952713777">T20 World Cup: Harry Brook’s maiden hundred seals semis spot for England as Pakistan on brink of elimination</a> &nbsp;T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav also worked on his range-hitting, aiming to improve his strike-rate, which pushed India back against the Proteas in Ahmedabad. Although his knock against the USA in India’s tournament opener helped them survive a shocker, the seasoned T20 batter hasn’t looked convincing in his remaining outings. A Times of India (TOI) report also stated that despite being bowled out by India’s frontline spinners several times, he never stopped hitting them big at the Chepauk stands. &nbsp;With India asking Chennai curators to prepare a surface to their liking, more batting-friendly, with a hint of assistance for spinners, SKY’s changed higher approach could reap rewards.<h3>Abhishek turns leggie before finding form</h3>Since peaking in the T20I bilateral series before the competition, Abhishek’s shock slump has made headlines. He got out to zero in three games and scored 15 against the Proteas, looking clueless on all occasions.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ahead of the Zimbabwe fixture, which could dictate his chances, should he again fail, Abhishek bowled leg-spin in the nets before observing batters facing practice spinners in the training. As the nets were folding up, Abhishek batted for nearly half an hour and even connected, showing glimpses of returning to form at the right time. &nbsp;As a few of his shots landed beyond the boundary rope, the onlookers seemed convinced that Abhishek was closing in on finding his breakthrough moment in this tournament.

India faces a must-win Super 8 clash vs Zimbabwe at Chepauk. With Rinku Singh out, Sanju Samson is set to return while Abhishek Sharma trials a new role.

Team India has begun its survival drill in Chennai ahead of a crucial do-or-die game against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup Super 8 tie. Sitting on the brink of a shock elimination since losing to South Africa in Ahmedabad by 76 runs, Team India must iron out their issues, including Abhishek Sharma’s form and sort their playing XI. While opener Abhishek turned into a leg-spinner in Chennai nets on Tuesday evening, Samson hogged the limelight as Rinku Singh’s potential replacement for the next game. The latest reports suggest that Rinku left the Indian camp to be with his ailing father, and is unlikely to return in time for the Zimbabwe fixture on Thursday (Feb 26). Considering he remains absent, India has a backup option in Samson, who batted alongside Ishan Kishan in Tuesday's training, honing his skills against the turning ball. While he is likely to walk into the playing XI, opening with Abhishek, with Ishan coming in at number three, India could make another change by bringing in Axar Patel for Washington Sundar.

India faces a must-win Super 8 clash vs Zimbabwe at Chepauk. With Rinku Singh out, Sanju Samson is set to return while Abhishek Sharma trials a new role.

IND vs ZIM: India’s Super 8 survival drill in Chennai; Samson in focus as Abhishek turns leggie

Pakistan bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi blamed lack of partnership by batters for the loss against England in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match on Tuesday (Feb 24) in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The loss has daunted Pakistan's chances of making into the semis as they are now dependent on other results including net run rate. Batting first, Pak scored a modest 164/7 in 20 overs and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-harry-brook-maiden-hundred-seals-semis-spot-for-england-as-pakistan-on-brink-of-elimination-super-8-pallekele-1771952713777">England, led by skipper Harry Brook's brilliant 51-ball 100, chased the target</a> with two wickets and seven balls to spare. With the win, England also became the first semi-finalist of the ongoing edition. Overall, this is the fifth consecutive time England have made it to semis - the most by any team in the T20 World Cup history.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-everything-good-says-fifa-chief-infantino-on-violence-hit-mexico-hosting-matches-1771988043101">World Cup 2026 | 'Everything good,' says FIFA chief Infantino on violence-hit Mexico hosting matches</a><h2>Shaheen laments batters for loss vs England</h2>Speaking after match, Shaheen, who took 4/30 in four overs, said: "Unfortunately we lost wickets back to back, which is why we did not go for that 180-190 score. When England batted, Harry Brook stayed at the crease and he was rotating the strike and he was just building partnerships. I think we missed this opportunity to build partnerships. A partnership means you have to have somebody in the crease who can go for single and twos. Throughout a T20 innings you need those eight or nine runs an over, if you want to build a partnership as well. I think that middle phase Adil Rashid bowled really well, so I think the credit goes to him as well."<h2>Are Pakistan out of T20 World Cup semis race?</h2>The loss against England leaves Pakistan with just one point from the washed out match against New Zealand and only one left to play - against Sri Lanla on Saturday (Feb 28). Even if Pakistan win against SL, they'll have a maximum of three points - equal to one either New Zealand or Sri Lanka - both of which have two matches left to play including one against each other. The net run rate would be the deciding factor in deciding the second semi-finalist from Group 2 along with England, shall Pakistan beat Sri Lanka.

The loss against England leaves Pakistan with just one point from the washed out match against New Zealand and only one left to play. The net run rate would be the deciding factor in deciding the second semi-finalist from Group 2 along with England, shall Pakistan beat Sri Lanka.

Pakistan bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi blamed lack of partnership by batters for the loss against England in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match on Tuesday (Feb 24) in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The loss has daunted Pakistan's chances of making into the semis as they are now dependent on other results including net run rate. Batting first, Pak scored a modest 164/7 in 20 overs and England, led by skipper Harry Brook's brilliant 51-ball 100, chased the target with two wickets and seven balls to spare. With the win, England also became the first semi-finalist of the ongoing edition. Overall, this is the fifth consecutive time England have made it to semis - the most by any team in the T20 World Cup history. Also Read - World Cup 2026 | 'Everything good,' says FIFA chief Infantino on violence-hit Mexico hosting matches Shaheen laments batters for loss vs England Speaking after match, Shaheen, who took 4/30 in four overs, said: "Unfortunately we lost wickets back to back, which is why we did not go for that 180-190 score. When England batted, Harry Brook stayed at the crease and he was rotating the strike and he was just building partnerships. I think we missed this opportunity to build partnerships. A partnership means you have to have somebody in the crease who can go for single and twos. Throughout a T20 innings you need those eight or nine runs an over, if you want to build a partnership as well. I think that middle phase Adil Rashid bowled really well, so I think the credit goes to him as well." Are Pakistan out of T20 World Cup semis race? The loss against England leaves Pakistan with just one point from the washed out match against New Zealand and only one left to play - against Sri Lanla on Saturday (Feb 28). Even if Pakistan win against SL, they'll have a maximum of three points - equal to one either New Zealand or Sri Lanka - both of which have two matches left to play including one against each other. The net run rate would be the deciding factor in deciding the second semi-finalist from Group 2 along with England, shall Pakistan beat Sri Lanka.

The loss against England leaves Pakistan with just one point from the washed out match against New Zealand and only one left to play. The net run rate would be the deciding factor in deciding the second semi-finalist from Group 2 along with England, shall Pakistan beat Sri Lanka.

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Infighting in Pak team?:' Shaheen Afridi blames batters for loss vs England

Harry Brook etched his name in history books with his maiden T20 World Cup hundred against Pakistan in a crucial Super 8 match in Pallekele on Tuesday (Feb 24), with the social media buzzing with praises on the English captain. Having already tasted tremendous success in the whites, Brook was yet to unleash his natural game in the coloured jersey, and he chose perhaps the perfect occasion to do it. Chasing 165 on a tricky Kandy pitch, Brook walked in at number three and made the evening about himself. His hundred, however, helped England punch their semifinal ticket in this edition.&nbsp;Brook was showing glimpses of acing in the previous games, but wasn’t getting there until he decided to promote himself against Pakistan.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-harry-brook-maiden-hundred-seals-semis-spot-for-england-as-pakistan-on-brink-of-elimination-super-8-pallekele-1771952713777">T20 World Cup: Harry Brook’s maiden hundred seals semis spot for England as Pakistan on brink of elimination</a> &nbsp;Despite losing wickets regularly at the other end, the right-hander maintained his composure and kept finding gaps at will. The USP of his masterful innings, however, was his running between the wickets, including converting several ones into twos, making all the difference. Be it smartly tackling Pakistan’s trump card, Usman Tariq, to attacking weaker links and even Shaheen Afridi, who returned with four wickets and was Pakistan’s best bowler on the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;Moreover, one of Brook’s sixes later in the innings off Shaheen was so good that even the Pakistan head coach, Mike Hesson, applauded it. &nbsp;Brook was fantastic, and so was England’s run chase, with Will Jacks helping the former champions inch closer to sealing the semis spot. Although Brook and Jacks almost pulled off the chase together, a strange passage at the end, including a few quick dismissals, kept the English fans on their feet.&nbsp; &nbsp;Jofra Archer, however, squashed all anxiety with a pull shot that won the game for England. While they have qualified for the semis, becoming the first team to do so, Pakistan, with just one point in two matches, is on the brink of elimination.&nbsp; &nbsp;Check how social media reacted to Brook's maiden T20 WC ton -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Without a shadow of a doubt, this is one of the great hundreds in T20 World Cup history. This will be a milestone in Harry Brook&#39;s career.&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/2026338148809428999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">50-ball-100 to take your team into the semi single handedly, this is what dreams are made of! Well played Harry Brook 👏👏 PS: Ind benching Axar vs SA and Pak dropping Abrar for this game. Really surprising and costly tactical mistakes.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20Worldcup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20Worldcup</a>&mdash; Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/2026341803897881003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What an amazing night for Harry Brook! Single handedly he’s just destroyed Pakistan - Is this The End for Pakistan?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakvsEng?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakvsEng</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCT20WorldCup2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCT20WorldCup2026</a>&mdash; Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) <a href="https://twitter.com/vikrantgupta73/status/2026338516293267868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">No matter what the format/venue is Harry Brook just loves to perform against his fav opponent Pakistan.&mdash; Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adityakrsaha/status/2026336810981638523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The result of this game aside, it genuinely is scary how good Harry Brook can be. As it stands, every other team in the world should be thankful for the gremlins in his brain doing weird shit so often.&mdash; Aaditya Narayan (@AadityaN_28) <a href="https://twitter.com/AadityaN_28/status/2026331156334149765?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Harry Brook with brains switched on is truly up there with the best I have ever seen play this sport.&mdash; Prashanth (@ps_it_is) <a href="https://twitter.com/ps_it_is/status/2026324225435328633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Take a bow, Harry Brook. He has treated the Pakistani attack with the disdain our tourists (rightly) have for consuming Icelandic fermented shark.&mdash; Iceland Cricket (@icelandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/icelandcricket/status/2026337609325117747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Freak innings from a freak batter. This was pure class from Harry Brook. Incredible shot making but also such tactical batting. Ultimate show-stealer <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a>&mdash; Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) <a href="https://twitter.com/beastieboy07/status/2026338988764844399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Harry Brook peaking at the right time <a href="https://t.co/i4FgzxnoOr">pic.twitter.com/i4FgzxnoOr</a>&mdash; Sagar (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/2026338172456808558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">H Brook at 3 now makes me start to think it’s possible .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCT20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCT20WorldCup</a> .. That’s the innings that proves we have a genius in the ranks of the England team ..&mdash; Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/2026337567990591928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Harry Brook - freak&mdash; Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/2026345796761694644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Harry Brook smashes a historic maiden T20 World Cup hundred to lead England into the semi-finals, leaving Pakistan on the brink of elimination in Pallekele.

Harry Brook etched his name in history books with his maiden T20 World Cup hundred against Pakistan in a crucial Super 8 match in Pallekele on Tuesday (Feb 24), with the social media buzzing with praises on the English captain. Having already tasted tremendous success in the whites, Brook was yet to unleash his natural game in the coloured jersey, and he chose perhaps the perfect occasion to do it. Chasing 165 on a tricky Kandy pitch, Brook walked in at number three and made the evening about himself. His hundred, however, helped England punch their semifinal ticket in this edition. Brook was showing glimpses of acing in the previous games, but wasn’t getting there until he decided to promote himself against Pakistan. Also read | T20 World Cup: Harry Brook’s maiden hundred seals semis spot for England as Pakistan on brink of elimination Despite losing wickets regularly at the other end, the right-hander maintained his composure and kept finding gaps at will. The USP of his masterful innings, however, was his running between the wickets, including converting several ones into twos, making all the difference. Be it smartly tackling Pakistan’s trump card, Usman Tariq, to attacking weaker links and even Shaheen Afridi, who returned with four wickets and was Pakistan’s best bowler on the day. Moreover, one of Brook’s sixes later in the innings off Shaheen was so good that even the Pakistan head coach, Mike Hesson, applauded it. Brook was fantastic, and so was England’s run chase, with Will Jacks helping the former champions inch closer to sealing the semis spot. Although Brook and Jacks almost pulled off the chase together, a strange passage at the end, including a few quick dismissals, kept the English fans on their feet. Jofra Archer, however, squashed all anxiety with a pull shot that won the game for England. While they have qualified for the semis, becoming the first team to do so, Pakistan, with just one point in two matches, is on the brink of elimination. Check how social media reacted to Brook's maiden T20 WC ton -

Harry Brook smashes a historic maiden T20 World Cup hundred to lead England into the semi-finals, leaving Pakistan on the brink of elimination in Pallekele.

‘One of the great hundreds’: Social media buzzes with praise on Brook after ‘freak’ hundred’; check reactions

England became the first team to qualify for the semifinal of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 after narrowly beating Pakistan by two wickets in their second Super 8 match in Pallekele. Captain Harry Brook starred for the former two-time winners, smashing his maiden T20 WC hundred, which came at the perfect time for his team. This win, however, has put Pakistan on the brink of elimination as they sit at just one point after two games. Chasing 165, Brook walked in early at number three and played perhaps the best hundred in this competition's history.&nbsp;Brook promoted himself at three for the first time and rocked Pakistan with his record-breaking hundred. While it was his maiden ton in this format, he also became the first captain to hit a T20 World Cup hundred, and the fourth-ever batter to do so in a run chase in this tournament. Considering his bat flow, the timing and shot placement, Brook stunned the cricket world, with even his naysayers applauding him for his one-of-a-kind innings.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rinku-singh-leaves-india-squad-before-zimbabwe-clash-in-chennai-here-s-the-reason-1771942505940">Rinku Singh leaves India squad before Zimbabwe clash in Chennai - Here's the reason</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan batted first after winning the toss and lost two quick wickets inside the Powerplay, including that of captain Salman Ali Agha. The man-in-form, Sahibzada Farhan, again slammed a crucial fifty (63), and handy contributions from the middle order, including 25 each from Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, and a late blitz from Shadab Khan, helped Pakistan post a fighting total (164/9). &nbsp;The returnee Shaheen Afridi picked the prize wicket of Phil Salt on a first-ball duck, before accounting for under-fire Jos Buttler and rookie Jacob Bethell inside the first six overs. In between, Brook walked in at number three and changed the game’s equation right away.&nbsp; &nbsp;Oozing with confidence, Brook played perhaps the most beautiful hundred in the tournament’s history, let alone in this edition, despite losing wickets regularly at the other end. At one point, after England was five down for 103, Brook and Will Jacks looked convincing to get the job done; however, a strange passage of quick wickets derailed the outcome, but couldn’t prevent it. &nbsp;England reached their fifth consecutive T20 World Cup semifinal, all since the 2016 edition, and Brook was pleased with the result. &nbsp;“We've come here to do that job, and we got it done, Brook said of England qualifying for the T20 World Cup semis. &nbsp;Crediting head coach Brendon McCullum for this masterstroke (On his move to No. 3), Brook said, “Baz the mastermind behind it. He came up in the morning and spoke with me. We wanted to try and maximise the Powerplay a little more. They know I like to take the game on. Thankfully, it came off, and we got a decent start,” the English captain reflected on his performance.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, England take on New Zealand in their final Super 8 game, while Pakistan face Sri Lanka in theirs. The Men in Green, however, require a few results to fall in their favour, including beating the tournament’s co-hosts, to seal an improbable semis spot.&nbsp;

For the fifth straight time, since the 2016 T20 World Cup edition, England has sealed a semifinal spot, becoming the first team to do so. 

England became the first team to qualify for the semifinal of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 after narrowly beating Pakistan by two wickets in their second Super 8 match in Pallekele. Captain Harry Brook starred for the former two-time winners, smashing his maiden T20 WC hundred, which came at the perfect time for his team. This win, however, has put Pakistan on the brink of elimination as they sit at just one point after two games. Chasing 165, Brook walked in early at number three and played perhaps the best hundred in this competition's history. Brook promoted himself at three for the first time and rocked Pakistan with his record-breaking hundred. While it was his maiden ton in this format, he also became the first captain to hit a T20 World Cup hundred, and the fourth-ever batter to do so in a run chase in this tournament. Considering his bat flow, the timing and shot placement, Brook stunned the cricket world, with even his naysayers applauding him for his one-of-a-kind innings. Also read | Rinku Singh leaves India squad before Zimbabwe clash in Chennai - Here's the reason Meanwhile, Pakistan batted first after winning the toss and lost two quick wickets inside the Powerplay, including that of captain Salman Ali Agha. The man-in-form, Sahibzada Farhan, again slammed a crucial fifty (63), and handy contributions from the middle order, including 25 each from Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, and a late blitz from Shadab Khan, helped Pakistan post a fighting total (164/9). The returnee Shaheen Afridi picked the prize wicket of Phil Salt on a first-ball duck, before accounting for under-fire Jos Buttler and rookie Jacob Bethell inside the first six overs. In between, Brook walked in at number three and changed the game’s equation right away. Oozing with confidence, Brook played perhaps the most beautiful hundred in the tournament’s history, let alone in this edition, despite losing wickets regularly at the other end. At one point, after England was five down for 103, Brook and Will Jacks looked convincing to get the job done; however, a strange passage of quick wickets derailed the outcome, but couldn’t prevent it. England reached their fifth consecutive T20 World Cup semifinal, all since the 2016 edition, and Brook was pleased with the result. “We've come here to do that job, and we got it done, Brook said of England qualifying for the T20 World Cup semis. Crediting head coach Brendon McCullum for this masterstroke (On his move to No. 3), Brook said, “Baz the mastermind behind it. He came up in the morning and spoke with me. We wanted to try and maximise the Powerplay a little more. They know I like to take the game on. Thankfully, it came off, and we got a decent start,” the English captain reflected on his performance. Meanwhile, England take on New Zealand in their final Super 8 game, while Pakistan face Sri Lanka in theirs. The Men in Green, however, require a few results to fall in their favour, including beating the tournament’s co-hosts, to seal an improbable semis spot.

For the fifth straight time, since the 2016 T20 World Cup edition, England has sealed a semifinal spot, becoming the first team to do so.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup: Harry Brook’s maiden hundred seals semis spot for England as Pakistan on brink of elimination

India middle-order batter Rinku Singh has left the team camp and returned home just two days before their T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup 2026. The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday (Feb 26). It is a crucial match for India after their heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Rinku travelled home due to a family emergency and also missed the team’s practice session. It is not yet clear whether he will rejoin the squad before Thursday’s match.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to an India Today report, Rinku Singh’s father has been admitted to a local hospital in Greater Noida and is currently on a ventilator. They also mentioned that the left-hander left Chennai early on Tuesday morning to attend to his father. Further details are awaited.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-hardik-dube-don-t-intimidate-a-batting-line-up-akhtar-tears-apart-india-attack-1771935994136">'Hardik, Dube don't intimidate a batting...': Akhtar tears apart India attack</a> &nbsp; It still remains unclear when Rinku would return back to the team, as it depends on the situation at home. If he is unable to come back, India may look at bringing in a replacement. There is also some doubt over his place in the playing XI because the left-hander was dismissed for a duck against South Africa at a time when India needed him to score some runs and reduce the margin of defeat.&nbsp;<h2>India vs Zimbabwe, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8</h2>The Super Eight fixture against Zimbabwe in Chennai has become crucial for India, as if they lose to Zimbabwe, they will almost be out of the tournament. Even with a win, their qualification chances remain uncertain due to a poor net run rate (NRR). &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-calmly-await-the-truth-psg-star-achraf-hakimi-to-face-trial-in-alleged-rape-1771939521056">‘I calmly await the truth’: PSG star Achraf Hakimi to face trial in alleged rape</a>&nbsp;India have struggled on slow and turning pitches in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, however, conditions could be different at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, as traditionally the surface is known for being slow and assisting bowlers, but this time the pitch appears to be slightly different from its usual nature and is expected to favour batters.

Rinku Singh has been out of form in the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup, scoring just 24 runs in five innings.

India middle-order batter Rinku Singh has left the team camp and returned home just two days before their T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup 2026. The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday (Feb 26). It is a crucial match for India after their heavy 76-run defeat to South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Rinku travelled home due to a family emergency and also missed the team’s practice session. It is not yet clear whether he will rejoin the squad before Thursday’s match. According to an India Today report, Rinku Singh’s father has been admitted to a local hospital in Greater Noida and is currently on a ventilator. They also mentioned that the left-hander left Chennai early on Tuesday morning to attend to his father. Further details are awaited. Also Read - 'Hardik, Dube don't intimidate a batting...': Akhtar tears apart India attack It still remains unclear when Rinku would return back to the team, as it depends on the situation at home. If he is unable to come back, India may look at bringing in a replacement. There is also some doubt over his place in the playing XI because the left-hander was dismissed for a duck against South Africa at a time when India needed him to score some runs and reduce the margin of defeat. India vs Zimbabwe, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 The Super Eight fixture against Zimbabwe in Chennai has become crucial for India, as if they lose to Zimbabwe, they will almost be out of the tournament. Even with a win, their qualification chances remain uncertain due to a poor net run rate (NRR). Also Read - ‘I calmly await the truth’: PSG star Achraf Hakimi to face trial in alleged rape India have struggled on slow and turning pitches in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, however, conditions could be different at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, as traditionally the surface is known for being slow and assisting bowlers, but this time the pitch appears to be slightly different from its usual nature and is expected to favour batters.

Rinku Singh has been out of form in the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup, scoring just 24 runs in five innings.

Rinku Singh leaves India squad before Zimbabwe clash in Chennai - Here's the reason

The West Indians love T20 cricket. Their dominance among batters for the most sixes hit in a T20 World Cup edition reflects it. While the top five includes four from the Caribbean Islands, check who is the remaining one and tops the list.

The West Indians love T20 cricket. Their dominance among batters for the most sixes hit in a T20 World Cup edition reflects it. While the top five includes four from the Caribbean Islands, check who is the remaining one and tops the list.

Caribbean Kings: Meet 5 batters with most sixes in a T20 World Cup edition

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