The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026co-hosted India and Sri Lankareached its most critical point: the Super 8 stage. After a high-octane group stage that saw a shock performance from the former champions AustraliaThe eight finalist teams are divided into two groups of four. The Super 8 stage starts today, February 21, 2026 and will continue until March 1.
The early rounds brought drama, upsets and nerve-wracking finishes, setting the stage for a tight battle between the remaining heavyweights. With the lines thinning and the pressure mounting, every game from here on out could determine the path to the final.
Super 8 Groups and format explained
The Super 8 stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup consists of two strong groups determined by a combination of group stage performance and pre-tournament seeding.
Group 1 is a high stakes bracket consisting of India and South Africatogether with West India and a surprise package Zimbabwedefeated Australia in one of the biggest shocks of the tournament and secured his place. Meanwhile, Group 2 is putting together a formidable lineup Pakistan, England, New Zealandand co-hosted by Sri Lanka.
In this round-robin stage, each team plays the other three teams in its group once. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Semi-Finals scheduled for March 4 and 5. With only three matches per side, there is almost no room for error. If the teams finish level on points, net run rate could once again play a decisive role.
Mohammad Kaif, Yuzvendra Chahal and others reveal their top four picks
As anticipation builds ahead of the Super 8 clash, former cricketers and pundits have shared their predictions for the semi-finalists – while some names are common, there are a few bold calls.
In a chat on Star Sports, the former India batsman Muhammad Kaif He supported India, South Africa, England and New Zealand to reach the final four. Kaif’s selections reflect a mix of current form and tournament pedigree, with an emphasis on balanced squads that can handle pressure in tight situations.
India’s highest cap spinner in T20Is, Yuzvendra ChahalKaifin repeated his choices. Chahal also named India, South Africa, England and New Zealand as semi-finalists, stressing that he believes these four teams have both the depth and experience to make it through the Super 8 stage. But not everyone agreed.
Former Indian pacer Come on Aaron made the boldest prediction. India went with the West Indies, England and Pakistan – notably leaving out South Africa and New Zealand. Harun’s selection of West Indies signals faith in their explosive brand of T20 cricket, especially in subcontinental conditions.
Meanwhile, the former head coach of India Sanjay Bangar Pakistan, backed by India, South Africa and Sri Lanka, offered an interesting combination to reach the last four. Bangar’s inclusion of Sri Lanka shows confidence in the hosts, who capitalized on home advantage at the crucial stage.
Also READ: NZ vs PAK, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8: Colombo Weather Forecast and Raw Factor
