&nbsp;South Africa maintained their perfect record in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 as they beat Zimbabwe on Sunday (Mar 1). Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, South Africa beat Zimbabwe by five wickets and 13 balls to spare and topped Group 1 of the T20 World Cup Super8 stage. The Proteas will now head to Kolkata, where they will face New Zealand for a place in the T20 World Cup final on Mar 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.<h2>South Africa maintain perfect run</h2>Needing 154 runs to win, the Proteas made a poor start to their innings as they lost Quinton de Kock for a duck. Soon, they lost captain Aiden Markram for four as both openers were dismissed inside the opening three overs of their innings. However, Ryan Rickelton (31 off 22) and Dewald Brevis (42 off 18) got the Proetas innings back on track with both scoring important runs. While both were dismissed before the team score was 100, the damage was already done, with David Miller adding 22 important runs.&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;In the end, Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 21) and George Linde (unbeaten 30) played their part to take the Proteas home and maintain their perfect record.&nbsp;Skipper Sikandar Raza was the pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe as he scalped three wickets and bagged figures of 29/3 in four overs. Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans both bagged one wicket each as Zimbabwe ended their dream run in the tournament. They had earlier topped their group against the odds, having beaten both Sri Lanka and Australia in the group stage.&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 Zimbabwe innings?</h2>Having won the toss, Zimbabwe opted to bat first and had a poor start, losing openers Tadiwanashe Marumani (7) and Brian Bennett (15) in the Powerplay. However, Sikandar Raza was the architect of the Zimbabwe comeback as he scored 73 off 43, an innings which consisted of 8 fours and 4 sixes and had a healthy strike rate of 169. Dion Myers (11) and Clive Madande (26) scored vital runs in the tail end of the innings to help Zimbabwe reach 153/7.&nbsp;Kwena Maphaka and Corbin Bosch both ended with two wickets each, while there were wickets for George Linde, Lungi Ngidi and Anrich Nortje.

Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, South Africa beat Zimbabwe by five wickets and 13 balls to spare and topped Group 1 of the T20 World Cup Super8 stage. The Proteas will now head to Kolkata, where they will face New Zealand for a place in the T20 World Cup final on Mar 8.

South Africa maintained their perfect record in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 as they beat Zimbabwe on Sunday (Mar 1). Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, South Africa beat Zimbabwe by five wickets and 13 balls to spare and topped Group 1 of the T20 World Cup Super8 stage. The Proteas will now head to Kolkata, where they will face New Zealand for a place in the T20 World Cup final on Mar 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. South Africa maintain perfect run Needing 154 runs to win, the Proteas made a poor start to their innings as they lost Quinton de Kock for a duck. Soon, they lost captain Aiden Markram for four as both openers were dismissed inside the opening three overs of their innings. However, Ryan Rickelton (31 off 22) and Dewald Brevis (42 off 18) got the Proetas innings back on track with both scoring important runs. While both were dismissed before the team score was 100, the damage was already done, with David Miller adding 22 important runs. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli In the end, Tristan Stubbs (unbeaten 21) and George Linde (unbeaten 30) played their part to take the Proteas home and maintain their perfect record. Skipper Sikandar Raza was the pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe as he scalped three wickets and bagged figures of 29/3 in four overs. Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans both bagged one wicket each as Zimbabwe ended their dream run in the tournament. They had earlier topped their group against the odds, having beaten both Sri Lanka and Australia in the group stage. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds What happened in Zimbabwe innings? Having won the toss, Zimbabwe opted to bat first and had a poor start, losing openers Tadiwanashe Marumani (7) and Brian Bennett (15) in the Powerplay. However, Sikandar Raza was the architect of the Zimbabwe comeback as he scored 73 off 43, an innings which consisted of 8 fours and 4 sixes and had a healthy strike rate of 169. Dion Myers (11) and Clive Madande (26) scored vital runs in the tail end of the innings to help Zimbabwe reach 153/7. Kwena Maphaka and Corbin Bosch both ended with two wickets each, while there were wickets for George Linde, Lungi Ngidi and Anrich Nortje.

Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, South Africa beat Zimbabwe by five wickets and 13 balls to spare and topped Group 1 of the T20 World Cup Super8 stage. The Proteas will now head to Kolkata, where they will face New Zealand for a place in the T20 World Cup final on Mar 8.

T20 World Cup 2026: Flawless South Africa maintain perfect record in Super 8 with Zimbabwe win

Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya has hinted that he may leave his role after the team’s disappointing T20 World Cup 2026 campaign at home though not immediately. He said he is proud of the team’s improvement during his time as coach, but he is willing to step aside if Sri Lanka Cricket finds the right person to replace him. After Sri Lanka’s five-run loss to Pakistan on Saturday, Jayasuriya said he has not yet made a final decision as his contract runs until June 2026. With a limited-overs tour of Afghanistan coming up in March, the board may want him to continue for now while they look at other options.&nbsp;Speaking at the press conference, Jayasuriya said he had earlier mentioned during the England series that he did not plan to stay for long. He added that he was disappointed with how the World Cup ended but felt he had helped the team improve over the past year and a half. Sri Lanka moved up in the rankings and performed better in different formats. He said he will talk with the board before making any final decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-ordeal-continues-pv-sindhu-stranded-in-dubai-after-airspace-disruption-due-to-iran-us-tensions-1772336986868">‘Ordeal continues…’: PV Sindhu stranded in Dubai after airspace disruption due to Iran-US tensions</a>&nbsp;“I thought I should give that title to someone else. That’s why I mentioned two months ago during the England series that I have no plans staying here.”&nbsp;“I feel sorry about how the World Cup ended. I could have taken this team forward for one and a half years. We moved up in rankings across formats and took the team to better positions. My contract ends in June. I have not given my official decision to Sri Lanka Cricket yet. I need to discuss with them what comes next,” he added.<h2>How Sri Lanka performed at the T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Sri Lanka’s campaign never really gained sustained momentum. They reached the next stage despite a surprise loss to Zimbabwe in the group matches. However, in the Super 8 round, they lost to England, New Zealand and Pakistan, which ended their hopes of reaching the semifinals.&nbsp;This early exit continues a worrying pattern for Sri Lanka. The 2014 champions have now failed to reach the semifinals in five straight T20 World Cups.&nbsp;<h3>Jayasuriya’s time as head coach</h3>Sanath Jayasuriya became Sri Lanka coach in mid-2024, initially as interim coach before taking on the full-time role. While the team’s T20 results were inconsistent, they achieved notable successes in other formats.&nbsp;Sri Lanka won an ODI bilateral series against India in August 2024, their first such win in 27 years. They also secured a Test victory at The Oval and later defeated New Zealand 2-0 in a home Test series.&nbsp;In T20 cricket, however, the team struggled. They did not perform well in the Asia Cup and also had a disappointing tri-series in Pakistan before the World Cup.&nbsp;Overall, Sri Lanka played 76 matches under Jayasuriya, winning 34. While there has been steady progress, recent T20 setbacks have raised questions about the future. Sri Lanka Cricket is now reportedly in talks with possible foreign coaches. Jayasuriya has not yet made his final decision, but his future could be decided soon after discussions with the board.

Sanath Jayasuriya became Sri Lanka coach in mid-2024, initially as interim coach before taking on the full-time role. While the team’s T20 results were inconsistent, they achieved notable successes in other formats.

Sri Lanka head coach Sanath Jayasuriya has hinted that he may leave his role after the team’s disappointing T20 World Cup 2026 campaign at home though not immediately. He said he is proud of the team’s improvement during his time as coach, but he is willing to step aside if Sri Lanka Cricket finds the right person to replace him. After Sri Lanka’s five-run loss to Pakistan on Saturday, Jayasuriya said he has not yet made a final decision as his contract runs until June 2026. With a limited-overs tour of Afghanistan coming up in March, the board may want him to continue for now while they look at other options. Speaking at the press conference, Jayasuriya said he had earlier mentioned during the England series that he did not plan to stay for long. He added that he was disappointed with how the World Cup ended but felt he had helped the team improve over the past year and a half. Sri Lanka moved up in the rankings and performed better in different formats. He said he will talk with the board before making any final decision. Also Read - ‘Ordeal continues…’: PV Sindhu stranded in Dubai after airspace disruption due to Iran-US tensions “I thought I should give that title to someone else. That’s why I mentioned two months ago during the England series that I have no plans staying here.” “I feel sorry about how the World Cup ended. I could have taken this team forward for one and a half years. We moved up in rankings across formats and took the team to better positions. My contract ends in June. I have not given my official decision to Sri Lanka Cricket yet. I need to discuss with them what comes next,” he added. How Sri Lanka performed at the T20 World Cup 2026 Sri Lanka’s campaign never really gained sustained momentum. They reached the next stage despite a surprise loss to Zimbabwe in the group matches. However, in the Super 8 round, they lost to England, New Zealand and Pakistan, which ended their hopes of reaching the semifinals. This early exit continues a worrying pattern for Sri Lanka. The 2014 champions have now failed to reach the semifinals in five straight T20 World Cups. Jayasuriya’s time as head coach Sanath Jayasuriya became Sri Lanka coach in mid-2024, initially as interim coach before taking on the full-time role. While the team’s T20 results were inconsistent, they achieved notable successes in other formats. Sri Lanka won an ODI bilateral series against India in August 2024, their first such win in 27 years. They also secured a Test victory at The Oval and later defeated New Zealand 2-0 in a home Test series. In T20 cricket, however, the team struggled. They did not perform well in the Asia Cup and also had a disappointing tri-series in Pakistan before the World Cup. Overall, Sri Lanka played 76 matches under Jayasuriya, winning 34. While there has been steady progress, recent T20 setbacks have raised questions about the future. Sri Lanka Cricket is now reportedly in talks with possible foreign coaches. Jayasuriya has not yet made his final decision, but his future could be decided soon after discussions with the board.

Sanath Jayasuriya became Sri Lanka coach in mid-2024, initially as interim coach before taking on the full-time role. While the team’s T20 results were inconsistent, they achieved notable successes in other formats.

Sri Lanka coach Sanath Jayasuriya to step down after T20 World Cup 2026 disappointment? Here’s what we know

India will take on the West Indies in their final Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (March 1) at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens, with a semi-final berth at stake. South Africa have already secured their place from the group and the winner of this clash will join them in the last four. Here’s everything you need to know about Kolkata’s weather forecast and the Eden Gardens pitch report ahead of the high-stakes encounter.<h3>Kolkata weather report</h3>The weather in Kolkata looks perfect for cricket on Sunday. There is no chance of rain during the day or night. The match begins at 7 PM under mostly clear skies, with only about 17% cloud cover. The temperature will be around 27°C at the start and may drop to 24°C by 10 PM. Earlier in the day, it could go up to 34°C before cooling down in the evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;A steady south wind of around 19-20 km/h may help fast bowlers get some swing. Humidity will increase from 46% in the evening to around 69% later, which could make conditions a bit sticky for players. Overall, the match should take place without any weather problems.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-ahmedabad-confirmed-as-venue-for-final-kolkata-mumbai-to-host-semis-after-pakistan-s-exit-1772297725813">T20 World Cup 2026: Ahmedabad confirmed as venue for final; Kolkata, Mumbai to host semis after Pakistan's exit</a><h3>Eden Gardens pitch report</h3>The pitch at Eden Gardens is expected to favour batters. In five T20 World Cup 2026 matches played here, the average run rate has been 8.59, showing that high scores are common. Fast bowlers might get some help with the new ball early on, but spinners may not find much turn. West Indies coach Darren Sammy said before the match that the pitch looks dry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even though four out of five matches here were won by teams batting first, the captain who wins the toss might still choose to bowl first to take advantage of the early conditions.<h3>Squads</h3>India: Sanju Samson (w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav&nbsp;West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope (w/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Johnson Charles, Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales and Quentin Sampson

Here’s everything you need to know about Kolkata’s weather forecast and the pitch report at Eden Gardens ahead of the high-stakes encounter between India and the West Indies.

India will take on the West Indies in their final Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (March 1) at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens, with a semi-final berth at stake. South Africa have already secured their place from the group and the winner of this clash will join them in the last four. Here’s everything you need to know about Kolkata’s weather forecast and the Eden Gardens pitch report ahead of the high-stakes encounter. Kolkata weather report The weather in Kolkata looks perfect for cricket on Sunday. There is no chance of rain during the day or night. The match begins at 7 PM under mostly clear skies, with only about 17% cloud cover. The temperature will be around 27°C at the start and may drop to 24°C by 10 PM. Earlier in the day, it could go up to 34°C before cooling down in the evening. A steady south wind of around 19-20 km/h may help fast bowlers get some swing. Humidity will increase from 46% in the evening to around 69% later, which could make conditions a bit sticky for players. Overall, the match should take place without any weather problems. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026: Ahmedabad confirmed as venue for final; Kolkata, Mumbai to host semis after Pakistan's exit Eden Gardens pitch report The pitch at Eden Gardens is expected to favour batters. In five T20 World Cup 2026 matches played here, the average run rate has been 8.59, showing that high scores are common. Fast bowlers might get some help with the new ball early on, but spinners may not find much turn. West Indies coach Darren Sammy said before the match that the pitch looks dry. Even though four out of five matches here were won by teams batting first, the captain who wins the toss might still choose to bowl first to take advantage of the early conditions. Squads India: Sanju Samson (w), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope (w/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Johnson Charles, Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales and Quentin Sampson

Here’s everything you need to know about Kolkata’s weather forecast and the pitch report at Eden Gardens ahead of the high-stakes encounter between India and the West Indies.

T20 World Cup 2026: Will rain play spoilsport in Kolkata for India vs West Indies Super 8 clash?

Venues for the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 were finalised after Saturday’s results as both Pakistan and Sri Lanka officially confirmed their exit. Despite Pakistan’s narrow five-run win over Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, both teams bowed out with England and New Zealand taking the semi-final spot. With neither Sri Lanka nor Pakistan playing in the semis, India will now host all three knockout stage matches, including both semis and the summit clash.<h2>Ahmedabad confirmed as venue for final</h2>As per an agreement between the International Cricket Council (ICC), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Cricket Sri Lanka (CSL), in case Pakistan or Sri Lanka reach the semifinal, Colombo will host one of the semifinals. The agreement stated that, in case both Sri Lanka and Pakistan reach the semis, then Sri Lanka’s semifinal was supposed to be played in Mumbai on Mar 5, while Pakistan’s would have taken place on Mar 4 in Colombo.&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;Had at least one of Pakistan or Sri Lanka reached the semis, Colombo would have still hosted one semi-final according to the above format. However, neither team reached the semis and will therefore not play in the final.&nbsp;As things stand, Kolkata’s Eden Gardens will now host the first semifinal on Mar 4, while Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium will host the other semifinal. Since Pakistan are no longer in the tournament, the final of the 2026 T20 World Cup will be hosted by the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Mar 8.<h2>Where will India play if they reach semis?</h2>In case India reach the semis, they will play their match at the Wankhede Stadium on Mar 5. India still have a remote chance to take top spot and end up facing New Zealand in the semifinal on Mar 5. However, India are likely to finish runners-up in their Super 8 Group 1 behind South Africa. This will mean they will face England on Mar 5 in Mumbai. All these equations will only come into play if India beat the West Indies on Sunday in their final Super 8 match at the Eden Gardens.&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>What happens if India miss out on semis?</h2>In case India miss out on semis and West Indies qualify, then the picture will be clear for the run to the final. South Africa will face New Zealand and England will take on the West Indies for a place in the final. South Africa vs New Zealand will be designated as the first semifinal and will take place at the Eden Gardens on Mar 4, while England vs West Indies will be the second semifinal and will take place on Mar 5 in Mumbai.

As things stand, Kolkata’s Eden Gardens will now host the first semifinal on Mar 4, while Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium will host the other semifinal. Since Pakistan are no longer in the tournament, the final of the 2026 T20 World Cup will be hosted by the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Venues for the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 were finalised after Saturday’s results as both Pakistan and Sri Lanka officially confirmed their exit. Despite Pakistan’s narrow five-run win over Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, both teams bowed out with England and New Zealand taking the semi-final spot. With neither Sri Lanka nor Pakistan playing in the semis, India will now host all three knockout stage matches, including both semis and the summit clash. Ahmedabad confirmed as venue for final As per an agreement between the International Cricket Council (ICC), Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Cricket Sri Lanka (CSL), in case Pakistan or Sri Lanka reach the semifinal, Colombo will host one of the semifinals. The agreement stated that, in case both Sri Lanka and Pakistan reach the semis, then Sri Lanka’s semifinal was supposed to be played in Mumbai on Mar 5, while Pakistan’s would have taken place on Mar 4 in Colombo. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Had at least one of Pakistan or Sri Lanka reached the semis, Colombo would have still hosted one semi-final according to the above format. However, neither team reached the semis and will therefore not play in the final. As things stand, Kolkata’s Eden Gardens will now host the first semifinal on Mar 4, while Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium will host the other semifinal. Since Pakistan are no longer in the tournament, the final of the 2026 T20 World Cup will be hosted by the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Mar 8. Where will India play if they reach semis? In case India reach the semis, they will play their match at the Wankhede Stadium on Mar 5. India still have a remote chance to take top spot and end up facing New Zealand in the semifinal on Mar 5. However, India are likely to finish runners-up in their Super 8 Group 1 behind South Africa. This will mean they will face England on Mar 5 in Mumbai. All these equations will only come into play if India beat the West Indies on Sunday in their final Super 8 match at the Eden Gardens. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli What happens if India miss out on semis? In case India miss out on semis and West Indies qualify, then the picture will be clear for the run to the final. South Africa will face New Zealand and England will take on the West Indies for a place in the final. South Africa vs New Zealand will be designated as the first semifinal and will take place at the Eden Gardens on Mar 4, while England vs West Indies will be the second semifinal and will take place on Mar 5 in Mumbai.

As things stand, Kolkata’s Eden Gardens will now host the first semifinal on Mar 4, while Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium will host the other semifinal. Since Pakistan are no longer in the tournament, the final of the 2026 T20 World Cup will be hosted by the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

T20 World Cup 2026: Ahmedabad confirmed as venue for final; Kolkata, Mumbai to host semis after Pakistan's exit

Pakistan’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2026 came to an end on Saturday (Feb 28) despite their narrow five-run win over hosts Sri Lanka. Playing at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, Pakistan, needed a final over win to take home the two points. However, despite their narrow win, it was not enough for them to book a place in the semis with net run rate seeing the Kiwis through. Both Pakistan and New Zealand ended with three points, but NRR played a crucial role in Group 2 of the T20 World Cup Super 8 stage.<h2>Pakistan win battle, but lose war</h2>Needing to win by 65 runs to book a place in the semis, Pakistan could prevent Sri Lanka from giving a taste of their own medicine. Having set a target of 213 runs to win, Sri Lanka almost pulled off the biggest upset in recent times as Dasun Shanaka scored 22 runs in the final over despite needing 28 runs to win. Needing six runs of the final two balls, Shaheen Shah Afridi, who was hit for three consecutive sixes, bowled two wide yorkers to help his side win the match.&nbsp;However, the five-run margin was not enough for Pakistan as they exited alongside hosts Sri Lanka. For Sri Lanka, Pavan Rathnayake scored 58 off 37 while Shanaka remained unbeaten on 76 off 31. Despite healthy contributions from Kamil Mishara (26) and Charith Asalanka (26), it was not Sri Lanka’s day.&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>What happened in Pakistan’s innings?</h2>Having been put into bat first, it was the pairing of Sahibzada and Fakhar Zaman that took the attack against Sri Lanka's bowlers. The pair was scoring runs left, right and centre as they scored 64 runs in the Powerplay. Sahibzada scored his fourth T20 World Cup fifty in the process and equaled Virat’s tally there as well. He and Zaman put together an opening stand of 176 runs, the highest for any wicket in a T20 World Cup edition.&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;While Zaman was unfortunate to miss out after he was dismissed for 84, Sahibzada did not have the same misfortune. He scored his second T20 World Cup hundred, joining Brian Lara as the only other person on the list.&nbsp;In the end, Pakistan scored 212/8 in their 20 overs and gave Sri Lanka a tough target to chase in the quest for the semis. Pakistan need to win by 65 or more runs to qualify for the semifinal of the T20 World Cup or else New Zealand will take second spot and reach the semis alongside England.

Playing at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, Pakistan, needed a final over win to take home the two points. However, despite their narrow win, it was not enough for them to book a place in the semis with net run rate seeing the Kiwis through. 

Pakistan’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2026 came to an end on Saturday (Feb 28) despite their narrow five-run win over hosts Sri Lanka. Playing at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, Pakistan, needed a final over win to take home the two points. However, despite their narrow win, it was not enough for them to book a place in the semis with net run rate seeing the Kiwis through. Both Pakistan and New Zealand ended with three points, but NRR played a crucial role in Group 2 of the T20 World Cup Super 8 stage. Pakistan win battle, but lose war Needing to win by 65 runs to book a place in the semis, Pakistan could prevent Sri Lanka from giving a taste of their own medicine. Having set a target of 213 runs to win, Sri Lanka almost pulled off the biggest upset in recent times as Dasun Shanaka scored 22 runs in the final over despite needing 28 runs to win. Needing six runs of the final two balls, Shaheen Shah Afridi, who was hit for three consecutive sixes, bowled two wide yorkers to help his side win the match. However, the five-run margin was not enough for Pakistan as they exited alongside hosts Sri Lanka. For Sri Lanka, Pavan Rathnayake scored 58 off 37 while Shanaka remained unbeaten on 76 off 31. Despite healthy contributions from Kamil Mishara (26) and Charith Asalanka (26), it was not Sri Lanka’s day. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli What happened in Pakistan’s innings? Having been put into bat first, it was the pairing of Sahibzada and Fakhar Zaman that took the attack against Sri Lanka's bowlers. The pair was scoring runs left, right and centre as they scored 64 runs in the Powerplay. Sahibzada scored his fourth T20 World Cup fifty in the process and equaled Virat’s tally there as well. He and Zaman put together an opening stand of 176 runs, the highest for any wicket in a T20 World Cup edition. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds While Zaman was unfortunate to miss out after he was dismissed for 84, Sahibzada did not have the same misfortune. He scored his second T20 World Cup hundred, joining Brian Lara as the only other person on the list. In the end, Pakistan scored 212/8 in their 20 overs and gave Sri Lanka a tough target to chase in the quest for the semis. Pakistan need to win by 65 or more runs to qualify for the semifinal of the T20 World Cup or else New Zealand will take second spot and reach the semis alongside England.

Playing at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele, Pakistan, needed a final over win to take home the two points. However, despite their narrow win, it was not enough for them to book a place in the semis with net run rate seeing the Kiwis through.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup: Pakistan win battle, but lose war to New Zealand as Men in Green miss out on semis despite SL win

Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan toppled India’s Virat Kohli in a unique list as Pakistan continued their fight to reach semfinal of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Playing against Sri Lanka in the final Super 8 match of Group 2, Sahibzada scored his latest hundred to go past Virat Kohli for most runs in a single edition of the T20 World Cup. A 65-run win for Pakistan would see them qualify for the T20 World Cup semifinal; if not, New Zealand will take the second spot alongside England in Group 1.<h2>Sahibzada runs the show</h2>Having been put into bat first, it was the pairing of Sahibzada and Fakhar Zaman that took the attack against Sri Lanka's bowlers. The pair was scoring runs left, right and centre as they scored 64 runs in the Powerplay. Sahibzada scored his fourth T20 World Cup fifty in the process and equaled Virat’s tally there as well. He and Zaman put together an opening stand of 176 runs, the highest for any wicket in a T20 World Cup edition.&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;While Zaman was unfortunate to miss out after he was dismissed for 84, Sahibzada did not have the same misfortune. He scored his second T20 World Cup hundred, joining Brian Lara as the only other person on the list.<h3>Most runs in a T20 WC edition</h3>323* - Sahibzada Farhan in 2026*319 - Virat Kohli in 2014317 - T Dilshan in 2009303 - Babar Azam in 2021302 - M Jayawardene in 2010&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;In the end, Pakistan scored 212/8 in their 20 overs and gave Sri Lanka a tough target to chase in the quest for the semis. Pakistan need to win by 65 or more runs to qualify for the semifinal of the T20 World Cup or else New Zealand will take second spot and reach the semis alongside England.

Playing against Sri Lanka in the final Super 8 match of Group 2, Sahibzada Farhan scored his latest hundred to go past Virat Kohli for most runs in a single edition of the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan toppled India’s Virat Kohli in a unique list as Pakistan continued their fight to reach semfinal of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Playing against Sri Lanka in the final Super 8 match of Group 2, Sahibzada scored his latest hundred to go past Virat Kohli for most runs in a single edition of the T20 World Cup. A 65-run win for Pakistan would see them qualify for the T20 World Cup semifinal; if not, New Zealand will take the second spot alongside England in Group 1. Sahibzada runs the show Having been put into bat first, it was the pairing of Sahibzada and Fakhar Zaman that took the attack against Sri Lanka's bowlers. The pair was scoring runs left, right and centre as they scored 64 runs in the Powerplay. Sahibzada scored his fourth T20 World Cup fifty in the process and equaled Virat’s tally there as well. He and Zaman put together an opening stand of 176 runs, the highest for any wicket in a T20 World Cup edition. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds While Zaman was unfortunate to miss out after he was dismissed for 84, Sahibzada did not have the same misfortune. He scored his second T20 World Cup hundred, joining Brian Lara as the only other person on the list. Most runs in a T20 WC edition 323* - Sahibzada Farhan in 2026* 319 - Virat Kohli in 2014 317 - T Dilshan in 2009 303 - Babar Azam in 2021 302 - M Jayawardene in 2010 ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli In the end, Pakistan scored 212/8 in their 20 overs and gave Sri Lanka a tough target to chase in the quest for the semis. Pakistan need to win by 65 or more runs to qualify for the semifinal of the T20 World Cup or else New Zealand will take second spot and reach the semis alongside England.

Playing against Sri Lanka in the final Super 8 match of Group 2, Sahibzada Farhan scored his latest hundred to go past Virat Kohli for most runs in a single edition of the T20 World Cup.

T20 World Cup 2026: Sahibzada Farhan breaks Virat Kohli's THIS record as Pakistan fight for semis spot

Tensions escalated in West Asia on Saturday (Feb 28) as Israel and the US launched air strikes on Iran. Later declared as “preemptive strikes” by the Israeli defence ministry, tensions have risen seriously in West Asia (the Middle East for the US). In the middle of the chaos, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued contingency plans for stakeholders who are traveling to and from West Asia to different parts of the world.<h2>ICC reacts after strikes in West Asia</h2>“The safety and well-being of every individual connected to our event is the ICC’s highest priority. We have already mobilised our travel, logistics and security teams, and are working around the clock to ensure that all stakeholders can return home safely, with minimal disruption. We would also urge fans who have travelled or were planning to travel for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 to monitor closely and adhere to advisories being issued and consider all factors before undertaking any further international travel,” ICC Spokesperson said in a release.&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>No impact on T20 World Cup 2026</h2>While the crisis in West Asia has no direct bearing on the conduct of the tournament, the ICC acknowledged that a significant number of personnel - including players, team management, match officials, broadcast teams, and event staff - rely on Gulf hub airports, particularly Dubai (DXB), as key transit points for onward travel to their home countries upon concluding their commitments at the event.&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;“The ICC Travel and Logistics team is actively working with major international carriers to identify and secure alternative routing options, including connections through European, South Asian and South-East Asian hubs. The ICC security consultants are liaising with relevant authorities and will provide real-time advisories as the situation develops. A dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk has also been activated,” the ICC statement further added.

Declared as “preemptive strikes” tensions have risen seriously in West Asia (the Middle East for the US). In the middle of the chaos, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued contingency plans for stakeholders who are traveling to and from West Asia to different parts of the world.

Tensions escalated in West Asia on Saturday (Feb 28) as Israel and the US launched air strikes on Iran. Later declared as “preemptive strikes” by the Israeli defence ministry, tensions have risen seriously in West Asia (the Middle East for the US). In the middle of the chaos, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued contingency plans for stakeholders who are traveling to and from West Asia to different parts of the world. ICC reacts after strikes in West Asia “The safety and well-being of every individual connected to our event is the ICC’s highest priority. We have already mobilised our travel, logistics and security teams, and are working around the clock to ensure that all stakeholders can return home safely, with minimal disruption. We would also urge fans who have travelled or were planning to travel for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 to monitor closely and adhere to advisories being issued and consider all factors before undertaking any further international travel,” ICC Spokesperson said in a release. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds No impact on T20 World Cup 2026 While the crisis in West Asia has no direct bearing on the conduct of the tournament, the ICC acknowledged that a significant number of personnel - including players, team management, match officials, broadcast teams, and event staff - rely on Gulf hub airports, particularly Dubai (DXB), as key transit points for onward travel to their home countries upon concluding their commitments at the event. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli “The ICC Travel and Logistics team is actively working with major international carriers to identify and secure alternative routing options, including connections through European, South Asian and South-East Asian hubs. The ICC security consultants are liaising with relevant authorities and will provide real-time advisories as the situation develops. A dedicated ICC Travel Support Desk has also been activated,” the ICC statement further added.

Declared as “preemptive strikes” tensions have risen seriously in West Asia (the Middle East for the US). In the middle of the chaos, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued contingency plans for stakeholders who are traveling to and from West Asia to different parts of the world.

ICC activates contingency plans for stakeholders after US, Israel strikes in Iran; no changes in T20 World Cup

England have reached the semifinals of the 2026 T20 World Cup after winning all three of their Super Eight matches. However, in almost every game, they have faced tough moments, including Friday’s four-wicket win over New Zealand in Colombo. Will Jacks played a key role with both bat and ball, helping England secure the win. He said that despite the challenges, the team is enjoying themselves under captain Harry Brook.&nbsp;“I think this group is in the era of Harry Brook. He is our white-ball captain,” Jacks told reporters in Colombo. “And I think that is something that we’ve been really focusing on. He has got us to play a certain way, and I think the environment around the group led by him is absolutely brilliant. Hopefully, everyone can see that we’re having fun and we’re approaching the game in the right way. And I think that’s why we’ve had some success.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-lionel-messi-knocked-down-as-fans-invade-pitch-during-inter-miami-s-friendly-1772253724930">WATCH | Lionel Messi knocked down as fans invade pitch during Inter Miami’s friendly</a>&nbsp;In the match against New Zealand, Jacks first took two wickets for 23 runs as New Zealand scored 159/7. England then needed 43 runs from the last three overs with Jacks at the crease alongside Rehan Ahmed. He admitted he was nervous, knowing how New Zealand’s spinners had dominated the Sri Lankan batters on the same pitch just days earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I knew that was a big task,” Jacks said. “We’ve seen the Sri Lanka game two nights ago on this pitch and how well New Zealand were bowling, and I watched how our batters were finding it having bowled on it myself. I knew that was a lot of runs. So I knew we needed to do something special.” Jacks finished unbeaten with 32 runs from 18 balls.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-there-ll-be-some-nerves-mitchell-santner-on-nz-s-t20-world-cup-2026-semi-final-hopes-1772255696978">‘There’ll be some nerves’: Santner on NZ’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final hopes</a>&nbsp;England will now face either India or West Indies in the semifinals, with those two teams playing each other on Sunday. Jacks said the team will be ready for whoever comes through. “We’ll be watching their game ‌Sunday and ⁠we’ll see the outcome. We’ll be prepared and I think we’ll go into ​it with optimism and excitement.”

England will now face either India or the West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals, with the two teams playing each other on Sunday.

England have reached the semifinals of the 2026 T20 World Cup after winning all three of their Super Eight matches. However, in almost every game, they have faced tough moments, including Friday’s four-wicket win over New Zealand in Colombo. Will Jacks played a key role with both bat and ball, helping England secure the win. He said that despite the challenges, the team is enjoying themselves under captain Harry Brook. “I think this group is in the era of Harry Brook. He is our white-ball captain,” Jacks told reporters in Colombo. “And I think that is something that we’ve been really focusing on. He has got us to play a certain way, and I think the environment around the group led by him is absolutely brilliant. Hopefully, everyone can see that we’re having fun and we’re approaching the game in the right way. And I think that’s why we’ve had some success.” Also Read - WATCH | Lionel Messi knocked down as fans invade pitch during Inter Miami’s friendly In the match against New Zealand, Jacks first took two wickets for 23 runs as New Zealand scored 159/7. England then needed 43 runs from the last three overs with Jacks at the crease alongside Rehan Ahmed. He admitted he was nervous, knowing how New Zealand’s spinners had dominated the Sri Lankan batters on the same pitch just days earlier. “I knew that was a big task,” Jacks said. “We’ve seen the Sri Lanka game two nights ago on this pitch and how well New Zealand were bowling, and I watched how our batters were finding it having bowled on it myself. I knew that was a lot of runs. So I knew we needed to do something special.” Jacks finished unbeaten with 32 runs from 18 balls. Also Read - ‘There’ll be some nerves’: Santner on NZ’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final hopes England will now face either India or West Indies in the semifinals, with those two teams playing each other on Sunday. Jacks said the team will be ready for whoever comes through. “We’ll be watching their game ‌Sunday and ⁠we’ll see the outcome. We’ll be prepared and I think we’ll go into it with optimism and excitement.”

England will now face either India or the West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals, with the two teams playing each other on Sunday.

‘In the era of Harry Brook': Will Jacks hails captain as England reach T20 World Cup semi-finals

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said his team will be feeling nervous as they will be watching Pakistan’s final Super 8 match against Sri Lanka, since their tournament fate now depends on the result. New Zealand missed their own chance to secure a semi-final spot after England beat them by four wickets in Colombo, finishing at the top of Group 2 without losing a match. The Black Caps currently have three points from three matches and a good net run rate of +1.390. Pakistan, with one point from two matches, still have a slim but possible chance to qualify.&nbsp;Speaking after the match, Santner admitted that their faith is no longer in their hands and can only wait and see what happens next. He further added that it would have been much easier if they had won their final match, but now they will be anxiously watching the next match.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Pretty nervous. There'll be some nerves watching tomorrow, just to see what happens. But it's out of our control, we can't really do much,” Santner told reporters during the post-match press conference.&nbsp;“We are just going to wait and see, and either get on a plane to India or New Zealand. We would have made things a lot easier if we won tonight,” he added.&nbsp;With England already through to the semi-finals, attention now turns to Pakistan’s match against Sri Lanka in Pallekele, which will decide who joins them in the last four.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-lionel-messi-knocked-down-as-fans-invade-pitch-during-inter-miami-s-friendly-1772253724930">WATCH | Lionel Messi knocked down as fans invade pitch during Inter Miami’s friendly</a><h3>How New Zealand lost their chance</h3>New Zealand knew a win against England would guarantee them a semi-final spot, however, they could not handle the pressure and England limited them to 159 runs. Will Jacks played an important role, taking two wickets for 23 runs and later scoring an unbeaten 32 from 18 balls to help England chase the target. Because of this defeat, New Zealand must now depend on Pakistan’s result.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mca-to-pay-tribute-to-ravi-shastri-with-a-stand-named-after-him-at-wankhede-stadium-1772252290907">MCA to pay tribute to Shastri with a stand named after him at Wankhede stadium</a>&nbsp;Santner said the team performed well in many areas during the tournament but admitted they made small mistakes at important moments, whether in bowling, batting or fielding.&nbsp;“It’s always those little moments at the end or throughout an innings where you can be a little bit sharper whether it's execution or in the field,” he said.<h3>Semi-final spot on the line in Pallekele</h3>Pakistan still have a chance, but it will not be easy. They must beat Sri Lanka by a big margin to move ahead of New Zealand on net run rate. A win by around 65 runs, or chasing the target within 13 overs, could be enough.&nbsp;There is no rain expected in Pallekele and Sri Lanka have already lost three matches in a row. This gives Pakistan a real chance to fight for a semi-final place. For New Zealand, all they can do now is wait. Their place in the semi-finals depends on how Pakistan perform in their final match.

With England already through to the semi-finals, attention now turns to Pakistan’s match against Sri Lanka in Pallekele, which will decide who joins them in the last four.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said his team will be feeling nervous as they will be watching Pakistan’s final Super 8 match against Sri Lanka, since their tournament fate now depends on the result. New Zealand missed their own chance to secure a semi-final spot after England beat them by four wickets in Colombo, finishing at the top of Group 2 without losing a match. The Black Caps currently have three points from three matches and a good net run rate of +1.390. Pakistan, with one point from two matches, still have a slim but possible chance to qualify. Speaking after the match, Santner admitted that their faith is no longer in their hands and can only wait and see what happens next. He further added that it would have been much easier if they had won their final match, but now they will be anxiously watching the next match. “Pretty nervous. There'll be some nerves watching tomorrow, just to see what happens. But it's out of our control, we can't really do much,” Santner told reporters during the post-match press conference. “We are just going to wait and see, and either get on a plane to India or New Zealand. We would have made things a lot easier if we won tonight,” he added. With England already through to the semi-finals, attention now turns to Pakistan’s match against Sri Lanka in Pallekele, which will decide who joins them in the last four. Also Read - WATCH | Lionel Messi knocked down as fans invade pitch during Inter Miami’s friendly How New Zealand lost their chance New Zealand knew a win against England would guarantee them a semi-final spot, however, they could not handle the pressure and England limited them to 159 runs. Will Jacks played an important role, taking two wickets for 23 runs and later scoring an unbeaten 32 from 18 balls to help England chase the target. Because of this defeat, New Zealand must now depend on Pakistan’s result. Also Read - MCA to pay tribute to Shastri with a stand named after him at Wankhede stadium Santner said the team performed well in many areas during the tournament but admitted they made small mistakes at important moments, whether in bowling, batting or fielding. “It’s always those little moments at the end or throughout an innings where you can be a little bit sharper whether it's execution or in the field,” he said. Semi-final spot on the line in Pallekele Pakistan still have a chance, but it will not be easy. They must beat Sri Lanka by a big margin to move ahead of New Zealand on net run rate. A win by around 65 runs, or chasing the target within 13 overs, could be enough. There is no rain expected in Pallekele and Sri Lanka have already lost three matches in a row. This gives Pakistan a real chance to fight for a semi-final place. For New Zealand, all they can do now is wait. Their place in the semi-finals depends on how Pakistan perform in their final match.

With England already through to the semi-finals, attention now turns to Pakistan’s match against Sri Lanka in Pallekele, which will decide who joins them in the last four.

‘There’ll be some nerves...’: Mitchell Santner on NZ’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final hopes

Pakistan’s fate in the T20 World Cup 2026 could be sealed on Saturday (Feb 28) when they take on Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. Needing a win, Pakistan’s qualification to the knockouts depends on a certain set of calculations as they look to avoid an exit from the tournament. They were handed the opportunity to live another day after England beat New Zealand in a last-over thriller in Colombo on Friday.<h2>What does Pakistan need to secure semis spot?</h2>As things stand, Pakistan will enter the final Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a net run rate (NRR) of -0.461. They will have to topple New Zealand (with NRR of 1.390) for the second spot and require a strong show with both bat and ball if they are to feature in the semis. However, this equation will be largely influenced by the toss, as Pakistan’s qualification equation depends on what they will require in the second innings of the final Group 2 match against Sri Lanka.<h2>Scenario 1: When Pakistan bat first</h2>In case Pakistan bat first, they will need to win by at least 64 runs to improve their NRR and leapfrog New Zealand for the second spot. The equation will also change depending on how many runs the Men in Green score.&nbsp;<ul><li>In case Pakistan score 250 runs, they need to win by at least 66 runs</li><li>In case Pakistan score 200 runs, they need to win by at least 65 runs</li><li>In case Pakistan score 150 runs, they need to win by at least 64 runs</li><li>In case Pakistan score 100 runs, they need to win by at least 62 runs</li></ul><h2>Scenario 2: When Pakistan bat second</h2>In case Pakistan are asked to chase a total, they will have to be fluent with their batting display and register a quick-fire win. Again, like runs required, here also Pakistan will have to chase down the total quickly to stand any chance of reaching the semis.&nbsp;<ul><li>In case Sri Lanka score 250 runs, Pakistan need to win before 14.3 overs or less</li><li>In case Sri Lanka score 200 runs, Pakistan need to win before 13.5 overs or less</li><li>In case Sri Lanka score 150 runs, Pakistan need to win before 13.1 overs or less</li><li>In case Sri Lanka score 100 runs, Pakistan need to win before 12.2 overs or less</li></ul>The match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka will start at 7:00 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m. IST.

As things stand, Pakistan will enter the final Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a net run rate (NRR) of -0.461. They will have to topple New Zealand (with NRR of 1.390) for the second spot and require a strong show with both bat and ball if they are to feature in the semis.

Pakistan’s fate in the T20 World Cup 2026 could be sealed on Saturday (Feb 28) when they take on Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. Needing a win, Pakistan’s qualification to the knockouts depends on a certain set of calculations as they look to avoid an exit from the tournament. They were handed the opportunity to live another day after England beat New Zealand in a last-over thriller in Colombo on Friday. What does Pakistan need to secure semis spot? As things stand, Pakistan will enter the final Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a net run rate (NRR) of -0.461. They will have to topple New Zealand (with NRR of 1.390) for the second spot and require a strong show with both bat and ball if they are to feature in the semis. However, this equation will be largely influenced by the toss, as Pakistan’s qualification equation depends on what they will require in the second innings of the final Group 2 match against Sri Lanka. Scenario 1: When Pakistan bat first In case Pakistan bat first, they will need to win by at least 64 runs to improve their NRR and leapfrog New Zealand for the second spot. The equation will also change depending on how many runs the Men in Green score. In case Pakistan score 250 runs, they need to win by at least 66 runs In case Pakistan score 200 runs, they need to win by at least 65 runs In case Pakistan score 150 runs, they need to win by at least 64 runs In case Pakistan score 100 runs, they need to win by at least 62 runs Scenario 2: When Pakistan bat second In case Pakistan are asked to chase a total, they will have to be fluent with their batting display and register a quick-fire win. Again, like runs required, here also Pakistan will have to chase down the total quickly to stand any chance of reaching the semis. In case Sri Lanka score 250 runs, Pakistan need to win before 14.3 overs or less In case Sri Lanka score 200 runs, Pakistan need to win before 13.5 overs or less In case Sri Lanka score 150 runs, Pakistan need to win before 13.1 overs or less In case Sri Lanka score 100 runs, Pakistan need to win before 12.2 overs or less The match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka will start at 7:00 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 6:30 p.m. IST.

As things stand, Pakistan will enter the final Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a net run rate (NRR) of -0.461. They will have to topple New Zealand (with NRR of 1.390) for the second spot and require a strong show with both bat and ball if they are to feature in the semis.

T20 World Cup 2026: All you need to know about Pakistan's semifinal qualification scenarios

England registered a narrow last-over win against New Zealand to maintain their perfect record in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Friday (Feb 27). Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense.<h2>England keep New Zealand hanging</h2>With 43 runs needed in the last three overs and Will Jacks struggling to connect, Rehan Ahmed came to the crease after the dismissal of Tom Banton. Kiwi skipper Mitchell Santner gave the 18th over to Glenn Phillips, who started well with a single. But, Ahmed hit a six on the second delivery and took a single on the next. Will Jacks hit three boundaries in the next three deliveries to end the over with 22 runs.&nbsp;Now, 21 runs were needed, and Santner came to bowl. Jacks and Ahmed managed to extract 16 runs in the over with the help of two boundaries. Only five runs were needed in the last over, and Jacks hit the winning runs to help his team win once again in this tournament. He was named Player of the Match for his knock, his fourth in the tournament. He has joined Shane Watson (2012 edition) for the joint-most POTM awards in a T20 World Cup.&nbsp;Chasing a modest target of 160 runs on a slow surface, England lost their first two wickets by the second over as Phil Salt (2 off 4 balls) and Jos Buttler (0) failed to perform. Harry Brook came to bat at number three again and made 26 off 24 balls with the help of three fours and a six. Jacob Bethell also contributed with 21 runs. Tom Banton was the highest scorer for England with 33 runs off 24 balls, but it was Ahmed (19 off seven balls) and Jacks in the end who pulled off a dramatic victory in the end.&nbsp;Rachin Ravindra took three wickets while conceding 19 runs, while Phillips, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry shared one wicket each among them. After this win, Pakistan stayed alive in the race for the semi-final spot. Pakistan need to win their Saturday's Super Eights fixture against Sri Lanka with a big margin to qualify for the semi-final. The Men in Green need to win their next match either by more than 64 runs or chase the target in 13.1 overs.<h2>What happened in New Zealand innings?</h2>Earlier, New Zealand posted a fighting total of 159 after opting to bat first in the must-win match. The Black Caps recovered from a mid-innings slump after a brisk start by openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert. While the Black Caps looked set for a bigger score at one stage, England's bowlers, led by Adil Rashid and Will Jacks, struck at regular intervals to pull things back and restrict the visitors to a manageable total.&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;New Zealand started cautiously, scoring eight runs after the end of the second over. However, openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert shifted their gears and took the Black Caps to 54/0 after the end of the sixth over. During the last ball of the seventh over, leg-spinner Adil Rashid broke the 64-run partnership for the opening wicket. He dismissed Tim Seifert, who made 35 off 25 balls, with three fours and two sixes. In the following over, all-rounder Will Jacks removed Finn Allen for 29 off 19 balls, with three sixes. After the end of the 10th over, New Zealand scored 84/2.&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;During the first ball of the 12th over, Rehan Ahmed took the wicket of Rachin Ravindra, who made 11 off 13 deliveries, with one four. After the end of the 13th over, the Kiwis made 116/3. During the 15th over, Adil Rashid took the wicket of Mark Chapman, who made 15 off nine deliveries, with two fours. Liam Dawson then removed Daryl Mitchell for just three runs during the 17th over. In the next over, Will Jacks clean bowled Glenn Phillips for 29 runs as Black Caps slumped to 142/6. Towards the end, Cole McConchie (14 off 12 balls, with two fours) took the Black Caps to a fighting score of 159/7 in 20 overs.

Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense.

England registered a narrow last-over win against New Zealand to maintain their perfect record in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Friday (Feb 27). Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense. England keep New Zealand hanging With 43 runs needed in the last three overs and Will Jacks struggling to connect, Rehan Ahmed came to the crease after the dismissal of Tom Banton. Kiwi skipper Mitchell Santner gave the 18th over to Glenn Phillips, who started well with a single. But, Ahmed hit a six on the second delivery and took a single on the next. Will Jacks hit three boundaries in the next three deliveries to end the over with 22 runs. Now, 21 runs were needed, and Santner came to bowl. Jacks and Ahmed managed to extract 16 runs in the over with the help of two boundaries. Only five runs were needed in the last over, and Jacks hit the winning runs to help his team win once again in this tournament. He was named Player of the Match for his knock, his fourth in the tournament. He has joined Shane Watson (2012 edition) for the joint-most POTM awards in a T20 World Cup. Chasing a modest target of 160 runs on a slow surface, England lost their first two wickets by the second over as Phil Salt (2 off 4 balls) and Jos Buttler (0) failed to perform. Harry Brook came to bat at number three again and made 26 off 24 balls with the help of three fours and a six. Jacob Bethell also contributed with 21 runs. Tom Banton was the highest scorer for England with 33 runs off 24 balls, but it was Ahmed (19 off seven balls) and Jacks in the end who pulled off a dramatic victory in the end. Rachin Ravindra took three wickets while conceding 19 runs, while Phillips, Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry shared one wicket each among them. After this win, Pakistan stayed alive in the race for the semi-final spot. Pakistan need to win their Saturday's Super Eights fixture against Sri Lanka with a big margin to qualify for the semi-final. The Men in Green need to win their next match either by more than 64 runs or chase the target in 13.1 overs. What happened in New Zealand innings? Earlier, New Zealand posted a fighting total of 159 after opting to bat first in the must-win match. The Black Caps recovered from a mid-innings slump after a brisk start by openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert. While the Black Caps looked set for a bigger score at one stage, England's bowlers, led by Adil Rashid and Will Jacks, struck at regular intervals to pull things back and restrict the visitors to a manageable total. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds New Zealand started cautiously, scoring eight runs after the end of the second over. However, openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert shifted their gears and took the Black Caps to 54/0 after the end of the sixth over. During the last ball of the seventh over, leg-spinner Adil Rashid broke the 64-run partnership for the opening wicket. He dismissed Tim Seifert, who made 35 off 25 balls, with three fours and two sixes. In the following over, all-rounder Will Jacks removed Finn Allen for 29 off 19 balls, with three sixes. After the end of the 10th over, New Zealand scored 84/2. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli During the first ball of the 12th over, Rehan Ahmed took the wicket of Rachin Ravindra, who made 11 off 13 deliveries, with one four. After the end of the 13th over, the Kiwis made 116/3. During the 15th over, Adil Rashid took the wicket of Mark Chapman, who made 15 off nine deliveries, with two fours. Liam Dawson then removed Daryl Mitchell for just three runs during the 17th over. In the next over, Will Jacks clean bowled Glenn Phillips for 29 runs as Black Caps slumped to 142/6. Towards the end, Cole McConchie (14 off 12 balls, with two fours) took the Black Caps to a fighting score of 159/7 in 20 overs.

Playing at the R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, England won by four wickets against the Kiwis, keeping them hanging for a place in the semifinal of the T20 World Cup. The result means a win for Pakistan with a big margin will see them secure qualification for the semis at New Zealand’s expense.

T20 World Cup 2026: England keep New Zealand hanging with narrow Super 8 win, attention on PAK vs SL

In a big update for New Zealand Cricket (NZC), fast bowler Matt Henry has been given parental leave and he will &nbsp;leave the team camp after New Zealand’s important match against England to be present for the birth of his second child. The game against England is very important for the Black Caps, 6as if New Zealand win, they will move into the knockout stage of the tournament. If the team qualifies, there is a chance that Henry could return to the squad later in the competition.&nbsp;Head coach Rob Walter shared his support for Henry. He said the team is very happy for Matt and his wife as they get ready to welcome their second child. He added that this is a special time for their family and wished them well. Walter also said that while a lot still needs to happen in the tournament, the team hopes everything works out so that Henry can rejoin them for the final stages.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-final-j-k-near-historic-win-as-qamran-iqbal-leads-from-the-front-against-karnataka-1772195403400">Ranji Trophy final: J&amp;K near historic win as Qamran Iqbal leads from the front against Karnataka</a>&nbsp;“Firstly, we’re all very excited for Matt and Holly on the arrival of their second child. It’s a very significant moment for their family and we’re wishing them all the best.” said Walter in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There’s a lot of water to go under the bridge but we’re hopeful that the stars align for the team and for Matt and that we’ll see him back competing in the final phases of the competition," he added.&nbsp;In the Super 8 match at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first against England.&nbsp;At the toss, captain Mitchell Santner said the team decided to bat first because winning matches is necessary to win a World Cup. He mentioned that they had already played on this pitch recently and understood how it behaves.&nbsp;&nbsp;He noted that the surface looked similar to the last game and had turned more than expected. Santner added that if the pitch plays the same way, they will follow similar plans, but if it is flatter, they will adjust.&nbsp;“We're going to have a bat first. You have to win games if you want to win a WC. Nice to have a run on this wicket the other night. We know what it's going to do. Does look the same. Looked good last game and spun more than we thought. If it plays the same, we’ll stick to similar plans. But if it’s flatter, we’ll adjust accordingly. Yeah, we’re kind of used to that in New Zealand - playing with wind factors and different dimensions.. You try and use the dimensions in your favour. Same team,” Mitchell Santner said at the toss.

At the toss, captain Mitchell Santner said the team decided to bat first because winning matches is necessary to win a World Cup. He mentioned that they had already played on this pitch recently and understood how it behaves. 

In a big update for New Zealand Cricket (NZC), fast bowler Matt Henry has been given parental leave and he will leave the team camp after New Zealand’s important match against England to be present for the birth of his second child. The game against England is very important for the Black Caps, 6as if New Zealand win, they will move into the knockout stage of the tournament. If the team qualifies, there is a chance that Henry could return to the squad later in the competition. Head coach Rob Walter shared his support for Henry. He said the team is very happy for Matt and his wife as they get ready to welcome their second child. He added that this is a special time for their family and wished them well. Walter also said that while a lot still needs to happen in the tournament, the team hopes everything works out so that Henry can rejoin them for the final stages. Also Read - Ranji Trophy final: J&K near historic win as Qamran Iqbal leads from the front against Karnataka “Firstly, we’re all very excited for Matt and Holly on the arrival of their second child. It’s a very significant moment for their family and we’re wishing them all the best.” said Walter in a statement. “There’s a lot of water to go under the bridge but we’re hopeful that the stars align for the team and for Matt and that we’ll see him back competing in the final phases of the competition," he added. In the Super 8 match at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first against England. At the toss, captain Mitchell Santner said the team decided to bat first because winning matches is necessary to win a World Cup. He mentioned that they had already played on this pitch recently and understood how it behaves. He noted that the surface looked similar to the last game and had turned more than expected. Santner added that if the pitch plays the same way, they will follow similar plans, but if it is flatter, they will adjust. “We're going to have a bat first. You have to win games if you want to win a WC. Nice to have a run on this wicket the other night. We know what it's going to do. Does look the same. Looked good last game and spun more than we thought. If it plays the same, we’ll stick to similar plans. But if it’s flatter, we’ll adjust accordingly. Yeah, we’re kind of used to that in New Zealand - playing with wind factors and different dimensions.. You try and use the dimensions in your favour. Same team,” Mitchell Santner said at the toss.

At the toss, captain Mitchell Santner said the team decided to bat first because winning matches is necessary to win a World Cup. He mentioned that they had already played on this pitch recently and understood how it behaves.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: New Zealand’s Matt Henry leaves squad - Here’s why

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma here is a look at five batters with most runs in T20 World Cup knockout stage. The list also features the likes of Jos Buttler, Marlon Samuels and Tillakaratne Dilshan as the T20 World Cup knockout stage approaches. 

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, 5 batters with most runs in T20 World Cup knockout stage

Despite India's comfortable 72-run win over Zimbabwe in Chennai to stay in the race for the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2026, Faf du Plessis and Anil Kumble believe the team is still uncertain about certain player roles. They also feel India need a more reliable sixth bowling option. The team have five frontline bowlers, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel. Shivam Dube has been used as the sixth bowler, with Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh contributing occasionally. However, in this tournament, Dube has conceded 124 runs in 9.2 overs at a high economy rate of 13.28. Although he has taken five wickets, but he has not delivered any key performances.&nbsp;Anil Kumble said that over the last 18 months, India have tried to develop more bowling options in T20 cricket. Players like Tilak, Abhishek, Dube, Rinku Singh and even Suryakumar Yadav have bowled. While having many options is helpful, Kumble pointed out that on flat batting pitches, India may prefer playing eight batters instead of seven batters and five specialist bowlers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-no-longer-only-a-player-but-a-football-club-owner-in-spain-1772177590511">Ronaldo no longer only a player but a football club owner in Spain</a>&nbsp;"They certainly did all the right things to get the batters to bowl a bit through the previous World Cup to now," Kumble said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut show.&nbsp;&nbsp;"If you look at the last 18 months, where India played T20 cricket where they've won every single game, that Tilak Varma got to bowl, Abhishek Sharma got to bowl, Dube got to bowl. Then even Rinku Singh bowled, even Suryakumar Yadav bowled. So in that sense, you have options and that's great. But on a flat pitch, there will be challenges. India would ideally want the comfort of playing eight batters, rather than going in with seven batters and five specialist bowlers," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;While, South Africa great Faf Du Plessis agreed that other teams would likely target India’s sixth bowling option. He explained that opponents would try to handle India’s main bowlers, especially Bumrah and Varun and then attack the weaker bowling option, particularly on good batting tracks. If Dube is forced to bowl defensive deliveries, batters may look to score heavily off him.&nbsp;&nbsp;"100%. You look at it and ask: who are the danger bowlers? Most of the time, it's Bumrah. On the day, you make that call - if you can get on top of someone else early, then the sixth bowling option is going to have to come in.&nbsp;"If that happens, and he (Dube) is bowling wide yorkers or defensive lines, you can line him up."

In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, India have also made several changes to their playing XI. Against South Africa, they brought in Washington Sundar for Axar Patel to add an off-spinner and reduce the number of left-hand batters.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-don-t-smile-count-to-3-atx-open-offers-rage-room-to-players-what-is-it-and-how-players-will-benefit-1772167927953">ATX Open offers RAGE ROOM to players to deal with emotions away from camera</a>&nbsp;Against Zimbabwe, Sanju Samson was included to balance the top order and Kishan was moved to number three, and Tilak Varma was pushed down to number six. Due to these changes, Du Plessis said India’s batting roles seem unsettled compared to other successful teams that stick to a fixed line-up.&nbsp;"The team they would have planned before the World Cup and where they find themselves now feels very different from a role perspective," Du Plessis said prior to the start of the game against Zimbabwe.&nbsp;“Initially, the top three was going to be left-handed, and now you've got Sanju coming from five. Possibly to the top. You've got Tilak possibly going to five. It's a lot of movement in terms of role play and if you look at the teams that are doing well, it's a very set batting line-up,” he added.

If India beat West Indies on Sunday, they will be through to the semis to defend their T20 World Cup title, while the same applies to the West Indies.

Despite India's comfortable 72-run win over Zimbabwe in Chennai to stay in the race for the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2026, Faf du Plessis and Anil Kumble believe the team is still uncertain about certain player roles. They also feel India need a more reliable sixth bowling option. The team have five frontline bowlers, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel. Shivam Dube has been used as the sixth bowler, with Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh contributing occasionally. However, in this tournament, Dube has conceded 124 runs in 9.2 overs at a high economy rate of 13.28. Although he has taken five wickets, but he has not delivered any key performances. Anil Kumble said that over the last 18 months, India have tried to develop more bowling options in T20 cricket. Players like Tilak, Abhishek, Dube, Rinku Singh and even Suryakumar Yadav have bowled. While having many options is helpful, Kumble pointed out that on flat batting pitches, India may prefer playing eight batters instead of seven batters and five specialist bowlers. Also Read - Ronaldo no longer only a player but a football club owner in Spain "They certainly did all the right things to get the batters to bowl a bit through the previous World Cup to now," Kumble said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut show. "If you look at the last 18 months, where India played T20 cricket where they've won every single game, that Tilak Varma got to bowl, Abhishek Sharma got to bowl, Dube got to bowl. Then even Rinku Singh bowled, even Suryakumar Yadav bowled. So in that sense, you have options and that's great. But on a flat pitch, there will be challenges. India would ideally want the comfort of playing eight batters, rather than going in with seven batters and five specialist bowlers," he added. While, South Africa great Faf Du Plessis agreed that other teams would likely target India’s sixth bowling option. He explained that opponents would try to handle India’s main bowlers, especially Bumrah and Varun and then attack the weaker bowling option, particularly on good batting tracks. If Dube is forced to bowl defensive deliveries, batters may look to score heavily off him. "100%. You look at it and ask: who are the danger bowlers? Most of the time, it's Bumrah. On the day, you make that call - if you can get on top of someone else early, then the sixth bowling option is going to have to come in. "If that happens, and he (Dube) is bowling wide yorkers or defensive lines, you can line him up."

If India beat West Indies on Sunday, they will be through to the semis to defend their T20 World Cup title, while the same applies to the West Indies.

'You can line him up': Kumble, Du Plessis raise concerns over India’s sixth bowling option

India batter Rinku Singh's father Khanchand Singh passed away in wee hours of Friday (Feb 27) at a private hospital in Greater Noida in National Capital Region (NCR) of India. The cricketer's father was battling with prolonged ilness and was on ventilator support before breathing his last on Friday. Khanchand was suffering from stage 4 liver cancer and his condition deteriorated in the last three-four days. The cricketer, who is part of India's T20 World Cup 2026 squad, had left the team prior to match against Zimbabwe (Feb 26) to be with his family but had joined the squad in time for the contest.<h2>Rinku Singh's father no more</h2>Speaking about the demise of Rinku's father, Dr. Sunil Kumar, spokesperson of Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida, where Khanchand was receiving the treatment, said: "His condition had deteriorated significantly in recent days, following which he had been admitted to the hospital on February 21. He was placed on ventilator support and breathed his last early this morning," as reported by new agency PTI.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-don-t-smile-count-to-3-atx-open-offers-rage-room-to-players-what-is-it-and-how-players-will-benefit-1772167927953">'Don’t smile &amp; count to 3': ATX Open gets RAGE ROOM for players to deal with emotions away from camera</a>"He had been unwell for quite some time. He was suffering from liver cancer. For the past three to four days, he was on ventilator support," added Rinku's childhood coach Masood Amini as per PTi Videos.<h2>What next for Rinku Singh</h2>The cricketer, as informed by coach Amini, will attend his father's furneal which will take place in Aligarh - Rinku's home town where his father raised the family by working as a LPG gas cylinder distributor.With India's next in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 scheduled on Sunday (Mar 1), it is not clear as of now if Rinku will be available for selection or not. The match is a virtual quarter-final for both India and West Indies with the winner set to advance to the semis along with South Africa from Group 1.

With India's next in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 scheduled on Sunday (Mar 1), it is not clear as of now if Rinku will be available for selection or not. The match is a virtual quarter-final for both India and WI with the winner set to advance to the semis along with South Africa from Group 1.

India batter Rinku Singh's father Khanchand Singh passed away in wee hours of Friday (Feb 27) at a private hospital in Greater Noida in National Capital Region (NCR) of India. The cricketer's father was battling with prolonged ilness and was on ventilator support before breathing his last on Friday. Khanchand was suffering from stage 4 liver cancer and his condition deteriorated in the last three-four days. The cricketer, who is part of India's T20 World Cup 2026 squad, had left the team prior to match against Zimbabwe (Feb 26) to be with his family but had joined the squad in time for the contest. Rinku Singh's father no more Speaking about the demise of Rinku's father, Dr. Sunil Kumar, spokesperson of Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida, where Khanchand was receiving the treatment, said: "His condition had deteriorated significantly in recent days, following which he had been admitted to the hospital on February 21. He was placed on ventilator support and breathed his last early this morning," as reported by new agency PTI. Also Read - 'Don’t smile & count to 3': ATX Open gets RAGE ROOM for players to deal with emotions away from camera "He had been unwell for quite some time. He was suffering from liver cancer. For the past three to four days, he was on ventilator support," added Rinku's childhood coach Masood Amini as per PTi Videos. What next for Rinku Singh The cricketer, as informed by coach Amini, will attend his father's furneal which will take place in Aligarh - Rinku's home town where his father raised the family by working as a LPG gas cylinder distributor. With India's next in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 scheduled on Sunday (Mar 1), it is not clear as of now if Rinku will be available for selection or not. The match is a virtual quarter-final for both India and West Indies with the winner set to advance to the semis along with South Africa from Group 1.

With India's next in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 scheduled on Sunday (Mar 1), it is not clear as of now if Rinku will be available for selection or not. The match is a virtual quarter-final for both India and WI with the winner set to advance to the semis along with South Africa from Group 1.

India batter Rinku Singh's father passes away after prolonged battle with cancer

India are a win away from reaching the semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026 after thrashing Zimbabwe on Thursday (Feb 26) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The 72-run win means India just need a win on Sunday against the West Indies in their final Super 8 Group 1 match and take another step towards defending their T20 World Cup title. However, there could be one factor that could seal the fate for the Men in Blue on Sunday and it is not the form of their openers nor the opposition, the West Indies.<h2>THIS factor can stop India from reaching the semis</h2>After Thursday’s result, both India and the West Indies have two points each with a game in hand. However, for the time being, both teams are separated by the net run rate (NRR), with West Indies sitting above India. The Caribbean side has an NRR of 1.791 while India sit third with an NRR of -0.100. Since a win for either side will see them through on four points, NRR won’t be an obstacle for either 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;However, if rain plays spoilsport in Kolkata on Sunday (Mar 1) and the match is washed out, both teams will settle for one point each. In this case, even if Zimbabwe beat South Africa, both India and the West Indies will avoid the bottom spot and end with three points each.&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;In this scenario, the second spot in Group 1 will be decided by NRR, where the West Indies edge India. If the match is washed out, India will face elimination and will be hoping for no rain gods to be kind in their virtual quarterfinal.&nbsp;Considering the winner goes through to the semis and the loser goes home, the clash will be a virtual quarterfinal. The winner will join England, South Africa and one more team (most likely New Zealand) in the semis and challenge for the 2026 T20 World Cup title.

The 72-run win against Zimbabwe means India just need a win on Sunday against the West Indies in their final Super 8 Group 1 match and take another step towards defending their T20 World Cup title.

India are a win away from reaching the semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026 after thrashing Zimbabwe on Thursday (Feb 26) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The 72-run win means India just need a win on Sunday against the West Indies in their final Super 8 Group 1 match and take another step towards defending their T20 World Cup title. However, there could be one factor that could seal the fate for the Men in Blue on Sunday and it is not the form of their openers nor the opposition, the West Indies. THIS factor can stop India from reaching the semis After Thursday’s result, both India and the West Indies have two points each with a game in hand. However, for the time being, both teams are separated by the net run rate (NRR), with West Indies sitting above India. The Caribbean side has an NRR of 1.791 while India sit third with an NRR of -0.100. Since a win for either side will see them through on four points, NRR won’t be an obstacle for either side. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds However, if rain plays spoilsport in Kolkata on Sunday (Mar 1) and the match is washed out, both teams will settle for one point each. In this case, even if Zimbabwe beat South Africa, both India and the West Indies will avoid the bottom spot and end with three points each. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli In this scenario, the second spot in Group 1 will be decided by NRR, where the West Indies edge India. If the match is washed out, India will face elimination and will be hoping for no rain gods to be kind in their virtual quarterfinal. Considering the winner goes through to the semis and the loser goes home, the clash will be a virtual quarterfinal. The winner will join England, South Africa and one more team (most likely New Zealand) in the semis and challenge for the 2026 T20 World Cup title.

The 72-run win against Zimbabwe means India just need a win on Sunday against the West Indies in their final Super 8 Group 1 match and take another step towards defending their T20 World Cup title.

T20 World Cup 2026 scenarios: Not poor form, not West Indies, but THIS factor can stop India from reaching semis

No calculators will be required on Sunday (Mar 1) when India and the West Indies face off in the final Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026, as one semifinal spot remains up for grabs. With an eventful Thursday in the T20 World Cup, where India beat Zimbabwe and South Africa got the better of the West Indies, all eyes will be on Sunday, when Group 1 will be decided. With two more matches, we take a detailed look at who can seal semifinal qualification and who is out of the race.<h2>What we know so far?</h2>After Thursday’s results, South Africa (four points from two matches) are officially through to the semifinal of the T20 World Cup, joining England, who have sealed their qualification from Super 8 Group 2. Also in Group 2, Zimbabwe (no points from two matches) are officially out of the tournament, meaning only India (two points from two matches) and the West Indies (two points from two matches) have the opportunity to join South Africa in the semis from Group 1.&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>What needs to happen for India to seal semis spot?</h2>As things stand, both India and the West Indies will go head-to-head in the final Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup on Sunday. While India have a negative net run rate (NRR) and the West Indies have a positive NRR, it won’t be part of the equation unless rain washes out the match in Kolkata on Sunday. If India beat West Indies on Sunday, they will be through to the semis to defend their T20 World Cup title, while the same applies to the West Indies.&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;The clash will be a virtual quarterfinal, considering the winner goes through and the loser goes home.&nbsp;In another scenario, the winner of the India vs West Indies match will have the opportunity to topple South Africa for the top spot, but that remains a rarity considering the type of cricket the Proteas are playing. This scenario also needs South Africa to lose to Zimbabwe, which remains out of the window for now.

After Thursday’s results, South Africa (four points from two matches) are officially through to the semifinal of the T20 World Cup, joining England, who have sealed their qualification from Super 8 Group 2. 

No calculators will be required on Sunday (Mar 1) when India and the West Indies face off in the final Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026, as one semifinal spot remains up for grabs. With an eventful Thursday in the T20 World Cup, where India beat Zimbabwe and South Africa got the better of the West Indies, all eyes will be on Sunday, when Group 1 will be decided. With two more matches, we take a detailed look at who can seal semifinal qualification and who is out of the race. What we know so far? After Thursday’s results, South Africa (four points from two matches) are officially through to the semifinal of the T20 World Cup, joining England, who have sealed their qualification from Super 8 Group 2. Also in Group 2, Zimbabwe (no points from two matches) are officially out of the tournament, meaning only India (two points from two matches) and the West Indies (two points from two matches) have the opportunity to join South Africa in the semis from Group 1. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli What needs to happen for India to seal semis spot? As things stand, both India and the West Indies will go head-to-head in the final Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup on Sunday. While India have a negative net run rate (NRR) and the West Indies have a positive NRR, it won’t be part of the equation unless rain washes out the match in Kolkata on Sunday. If India beat West Indies on Sunday, they will be through to the semis to defend their T20 World Cup title, while the same applies to the West Indies. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds The clash will be a virtual quarterfinal, considering the winner goes through and the loser goes home. In another scenario, the winner of the India vs West Indies match will have the opportunity to topple South Africa for the top spot, but that remains a rarity considering the type of cricket the Proteas are playing. This scenario also needs South Africa to lose to Zimbabwe, which remains out of the window for now.

After Thursday’s results, South Africa (four points from two matches) are officially through to the semifinal of the T20 World Cup, joining England, who have sealed their qualification from Super 8 Group 2.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026 scenarios: NO CALCULATORS NEEDED! Here's how India can seal semifinal spot vs West Indies

India officially eliminated Zimbabwe in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 as they now sit a win away from the semifinal of the tournament. Playing on Thursday (Feb 26) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the Men in Blue beat Zimbabwe by 72 runs and will now battle out against the West Indies in a virtual quarterfinal on Sunday at the Eden Gardens. The winner of the final Super 8 clash between India and the West Indies will go through to the semis, while the winner will also have the opportunity to top their group in case South Africa lose to Zimbabwe.<h2>India eliminate Zimbabwe</h2>Tasked with chasing 257 runs to win the Super 8 clash, Zimbabwe gave a good account of their batting unit but were ultimately undone. Opener Brian Bennett was the star of their innings as he scored 97 runs and salvaged pride for the African nation. His innings consisted of 8 fours and 6 sixes, impressing with his batting display.&nbsp;However, no big partnership and a lack of support saw Zimbabwe fall short of the target. Captain Sikandar Raza scored 31 off 21, while Tadiwanashe Marumani scored 20 runs. However, no other batters got going as Zimbabwe lost the match and were eliminated from the tournament.&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>What happened in India’s innings?</h2>Asked to bat first, Sanju Samson (24 off 15) and Abhishek Sharma (55 off 30) gave a decent start to the Men in Blue. Samson yet again failed to impress with the bat and was dismissed in the Powerplay and could not make the most of his opportunities. On the other hand, Abhishek scored 55, helping him regain his form while going on a barren run in the T20 World Cup.&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;After Abhishek’s dismissal, Ishan Kishan(38 off 24) and captain &nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav (33 off 13) added to the team’s cause. However, it was the impressive batting display from underfire Tilak Varma (unbeaten 44) and Hardik Pandya (50 off 23) that caught the eye. The duo’s explosive hitting in the log overs saw India post 256/4 in their 20 overs.India now take on the West Indies on Sunday, with the winner going through to the semis while the loser faces elimination at the Eden Gardens.

Playing on Thursday (Feb 26) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the Men in Blue beat Zimbabwe by 72 runs and will now battle out against the West Indies in a virtual quarterfinal on Sunday at the Eden Gardens. 

India officially eliminated Zimbabwe in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 as they now sit a win away from the semifinal of the tournament. Playing on Thursday (Feb 26) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the Men in Blue beat Zimbabwe by 72 runs and will now battle out against the West Indies in a virtual quarterfinal on Sunday at the Eden Gardens. The winner of the final Super 8 clash between India and the West Indies will go through to the semis, while the winner will also have the opportunity to top their group in case South Africa lose to Zimbabwe. India eliminate Zimbabwe Tasked with chasing 257 runs to win the Super 8 clash, Zimbabwe gave a good account of their batting unit but were ultimately undone. Opener Brian Bennett was the star of their innings as he scored 97 runs and salvaged pride for the African nation. His innings consisted of 8 fours and 6 sixes, impressing with his batting display. However, no big partnership and a lack of support saw Zimbabwe fall short of the target. Captain Sikandar Raza scored 31 off 21, while Tadiwanashe Marumani scored 20 runs. However, no other batters got going as Zimbabwe lost the match and were eliminated from the tournament. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli What happened in India’s innings? Asked to bat first, Sanju Samson (24 off 15) and Abhishek Sharma (55 off 30) gave a decent start to the Men in Blue. Samson yet again failed to impress with the bat and was dismissed in the Powerplay and could not make the most of his opportunities. On the other hand, Abhishek scored 55, helping him regain his form while going on a barren run in the T20 World Cup. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds After Abhishek’s dismissal, Ishan Kishan(38 off 24) and captain Suryakumar Yadav (33 off 13) added to the team’s cause. However, it was the impressive batting display from underfire Tilak Varma (unbeaten 44) and Hardik Pandya (50 off 23) that caught the eye. The duo’s explosive hitting in the log overs saw India post 256/4 in their 20 overs. India now take on the West Indies on Sunday, with the winner going through to the semis while the loser faces elimination at the Eden Gardens.

Playing on Thursday (Feb 26) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the Men in Blue beat Zimbabwe by 72 runs and will now battle out against the West Indies in a virtual quarterfinal on Sunday at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: India eliminate Zimbabwe to keep semifinal hopes alive; Abhishek, Hardik star with bat

It will be “D-Day” for Pakistan on Friday (Feb 26) as England and New Zealand square off at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo in the Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026. With fate not in their hands and belief in their hearts, Pakistan will be at England’s mercy if they are to retain any chances of playing in the semifinal of the tournament. So here’s what needs to happen for the 2009 T20 World Cup champions if they are to qualify for the semis.<h2>What is the current scenario?</h2>At the time of writing on Thursday (Feb 26), Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with four points) and New Zealand (with three points) square off on Friday. In this scenario, if New Zealand beat England, the former will book its place in the semis and end Pakistan’s quest. This will also mean Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (already eliminated) will be a dead-rubber clash on Saturday.&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;For Pakistan to qualify, England must beat New Zealand by a big margin, which will keep the Kiwis at three points after playing all their Super 8 matches. On the other hand, Pakistan should beat Sri Lanka by a big margin, meaning they will also end their campaign on three points.&nbsp;According to ICC guidelines, the teams ending on the same points will be differentiated on the basis of head-to-head records. However, since the New Zealand vs Pakistan match was washed out, the team with the better net run rate will go through.&nbsp;As things stand, no specific win margin can be determined for Pakistan as New Zealand and England are yet to face.&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;Possible scenario 1If England score 200 and New Zealand lose by 100 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of -1.065. In this case, Pakistan will simply have to win their match against Sri Lanka on Saturday and not worry about the NRR.&nbsp;Possible scenario 2If England score 150 and New Zealand lose by 10 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of 1.275. In this case, Pakistan will have to score 200 in their match against Sri Lanka and win by a 60-run margin and attain an NRR higher than that of the Kiwis.&nbsp;Note: The scenarios are assumptions and not final values and will be only effective in case New Zealand lose to England.

At the time of writing on Thursday, Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with 4 points) and New Zealand (with 3 points) square off. 

It will be “D-Day” for Pakistan on Friday (Feb 26) as England and New Zealand square off at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo in the Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026. With fate not in their hands and belief in their hearts, Pakistan will be at England’s mercy if they are to retain any chances of playing in the semifinal of the tournament. So here’s what needs to happen for the 2009 T20 World Cup champions if they are to qualify for the semis. What is the current scenario? At the time of writing on Thursday (Feb 26), Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with four points) and New Zealand (with three points) square off on Friday. In this scenario, if New Zealand beat England, the former will book its place in the semis and end Pakistan’s quest. This will also mean Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (already eliminated) will be a dead-rubber clash on Saturday. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli For Pakistan to qualify, England must beat New Zealand by a big margin, which will keep the Kiwis at three points after playing all their Super 8 matches. On the other hand, Pakistan should beat Sri Lanka by a big margin, meaning they will also end their campaign on three points. According to ICC guidelines, the teams ending on the same points will be differentiated on the basis of head-to-head records. However, since the New Zealand vs Pakistan match was washed out, the team with the better net run rate will go through. As things stand, no specific win margin can be determined for Pakistan as New Zealand and England are yet to face. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Possible scenario 1 If England score 200 and New Zealand lose by 100 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of -1.065. In this case, Pakistan will simply have to win their match against Sri Lanka on Saturday and not worry about the NRR. Possible scenario 2 If England score 150 and New Zealand lose by 10 runs, New Zealand will have an NRR of 1.275. In this case, Pakistan will have to score 200 in their match against Sri Lanka and win by a 60-run margin and attain an NRR higher than that of the Kiwis. Note: The scenarios are assumptions and not final values and will be only effective in case New Zealand lose to England.

At the time of writing on Thursday, Pakistan sit third in Group 2 of the Super 8 and need a huge favour from England. Pakistan have one point with one match in hand against Sri Lanka on Saturday, while England (already qualified with 4 points) and New Zealand (with 3 points) square off.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan at England's mercy! Here's how Salman Agha's men can still qualify for semifinal

West Indies were dismantled by South Africa in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match on Thursday (Feb 26) by 9 wickets which makes their match against India on Sunday (Mar 1) a virtual quarter-final. India, shall they manage to win against Zimbabwe, will also be in the same position come Sunday, also thanks to South Africa. Shai Hope's side, which relied on batting, was ripped to pieces by South African bowlers before a world-record partnership for the 8th wicket between Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd. In reply, SA skipper Aiden Markram hit unbeaten 82 off 46 as they chased 177-run target with ease to stay unbeaten in the tournament so far.<h3>Shai Hope reacts on Super 8 match vs India after South Africa loss</h3>"Next game will be quarter-final," said Hope after the match about the India contest. He was not too worried about the loss and said: "It was one of those days. I thought we didn't get enough runs on the board, and it was hard for the bowlers to pull it back. Everything will not be easy. The way we play our cricket, there will be a loss, aim was to get it out early."West Indies are two-time T20 World Cup champions - in 2012 and 2016 and are one of only three teams, along with India (2007 &amp; 2024) and England (2010 &amp; 2022), to achieve the milestone.<h3>Qualification scenario for India, West Indies, and South Africa</h3>The win against West Indies took South Africa to four points in two matches, putting their one foot in the semis with a net run rate of +2.890. The SA win makes India vs West Indies a virtual semi-final on Mar 1 with the winner reaching to four points and booking a place in the final four as well, given India beat Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

The SA win makes India vs West Indies a virtual semi-final on Mar 1 with the winner reaching to four points and booking a place in the final four as well, given India beat Zimbabwe. 

West Indies were dismantled by South Africa in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match on Thursday (Feb 26) by 9 wickets which makes their match against India on Sunday (Mar 1) a virtual quarter-final. India, shall they manage to win against Zimbabwe, will also be in the same position come Sunday, also thanks to South Africa. Shai Hope's side, which relied on batting, was ripped to pieces by South African bowlers before a world-record partnership for the 8th wicket between Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd. In reply, SA skipper Aiden Markram hit unbeaten 82 off 46 as they chased 177-run target with ease to stay unbeaten in the tournament so far. Shai Hope reacts on Super 8 match vs India after South Africa loss "Next game will be quarter-final," said Hope after the match about the India contest. He was not too worried about the loss and said: "It was one of those days. I thought we didn't get enough runs on the board, and it was hard for the bowlers to pull it back. Everything will not be easy. The way we play our cricket, there will be a loss, aim was to get it out early." West Indies are two-time T20 World Cup champions - in 2012 and 2016 and are one of only three teams, along with India (2007 & 2024) and England (2010 & 2022), to achieve the milestone. Qualification scenario for India, West Indies, and South Africa The win against West Indies took South Africa to four points in two matches, putting their one foot in the semis with a net run rate of +2.890. The SA win makes India vs West Indies a virtual semi-final on Mar 1 with the winner reaching to four points and booking a place in the final four as well, given India beat Zimbabwe.

The SA win makes India vs West Indies a virtual semi-final on Mar 1 with the winner reaching to four points and booking a place in the final four as well, given India beat Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'The way we play, there'll be a loss...': West Indies skipper Hope reacts to 'quarter-final' vs India after SA loss

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 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

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