as ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Entering the Super Eight round, the champions, Indiathey find themselves in the formidable Group 1. With an unblemished 4-0 record in the group stages, the Men in Blue are set for a tough road. South Africa, Zimbabweand West India. The journey begins with a marquee clash against the Proteas in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22. After that, India will lock horns with the Chevrons of Zimbabwe in Chennai on February 26 before wrapping up the stage against the West Indies in Kolkata on March 1.
Sanjay Bangar reveals three crucial stars for India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026
Speaking on the popular Star Sports show ‘Watch the Blues’,’ former Indian all-rounder and batting coach Sanjay Bangar Three players have been identified who will be the cornerstones of India’s success in the knockout competition. Topping his list is explosive Ishan Kishi. Bangar pointed out that with Abhishek Sharma struggling for rhythm at the top, the onus of providing lightning-fast starts has completely shifted to Kishan.
“After that, three players who will be extremely critical… men in form and I feel Ishan Kishan here, his style of batting… now the onus is on him to give those explosive starts.“, – noted Bangar.
Statistics support this claim; Kishan is already assembled 176 runs at an amazing strike rate of 202.29 in four innings.
Bangar’s second choice is always valid Suryakumar Yadav162 runs and anchors the middle order with an innate ability to read match situations. Finally, Bangar emphasized that while spin is the hottest topic, jasprit bumrah remains the last trump card. Despite having only four wickets so far, his elite economy rate of 6.00 ensures that he remains the captain’s go-to man when the match is on the line.
“The number two player is Suryakumar Yadav. He has consistently scored in most games with an understanding of the game situation. The third player will be Jasprit Bumrah. Everyone talks about the spin aspect of this Indian team, but I believe Jasprit Bumrah will hold the key when it comes to bowling when the match is on the line.” he added.
India’s group of death scenario in Group 1 of the Super Eight
India’s road to the semi-finals is not an easy one as Group 1 has a collection of tabletop masters and giant killers. Unlike typical draws, this group combines the dominant teams. South Africa enter the competition in 2024 as last year’s runners-up looking to avenge their last loss. Meanwhile, West Indies remain a perennial threat in the shortest format, especially with the power-hitters they possess.
The inclusion of Zimbabwe adds a layer of unpredictability. The African nation secured its place after a dramatic qualifying race in which Australia defeated perennial heavyweights. With every team in Group 1 capable of beating the other on their day, India cannot afford to lose a single one. The tactical battle is likely to revolve around how India’s form trio tackles the various challenges of Ahmedabad’s environment, Chennai’s innings and the iconic atmosphere of Eden Gardens.
