Last Updated on 2 months ago by Charbel Coorey
Pre-tournament favourites India were in danger of missing the 2026 T20 World Cup semi-finals. Their heavy 76-run defeat to an impressive South Africa side, plus the West Indies’ huge 107-run win over Zimbabwe, meant Suryakumar Yadav’s side faced a fight to make the final four.
However, South Africa’s win over West Indies and India’s win over Zimbabwe on Thursday means we have a virtual quarter-final on March 1. Here is a look at the scenarios.
2026 T20 World Cup Super 8 Group 1 scenarios: South Africa through, India or West Indies to take other spot
South Africa
- Points: 4
- Net run rate:+2.890
- Match remaining: Zimbabwe in Delhi.
The impressive Proteas put on a show against both India and West Indies in Ahmedabad. They beat both teams comfortably to seal their passage through to the semi-finals. Victory over Zimbabwe in their final game will confirm top spot.
West Indies and India
West Indies:
- Points: 2
- Net run rate: +1.791
- Match remaining: India in Kolkata.
India:
- Points: 2
- Net run rate: -0.100
- Match remaining: West Indies in Kolkata.
A Shimron Hetmyer-led demolition of Zimbabwe put the West Indies in a strong position. However, a heavy defeat to South Africa – plus India’s victory against Zimbabwe – means the two teams will face off in a virtual quarter-final in Kolkata on Sunday to determine who goes through.
India’s inferior net run rate does not matter as the winner moves to four points.
Zimbabwe (eliminated)
- Points: 0
- Net run rate: -4.475
- Match remaining: South Africa in Delhi.
Zimbabwe had to win their final two matches to stand a chance at qualifying given their heavy defeat against West Indies. Unfortunately for the Chevrons, defeat to India means they are officially eliminated from the tournament as one of India or West Indies will finish with four points.
