Legendary former Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram The ICC has shared its preliminary predictions for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, naming the four teams it believes have the strongest chance of reaching the semi-finals. Akram’s selections have sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, particularly due to his lack of traditional strengths. England and Pakistan from his list.
Wasim Akram announced the names of the top-4 teams for the T20 World Cup 2026
India began to develop at home
According to NDTV, Akram feels it India will be among the front-runners, mainly due to the advantage of familiar conditions. The 2026 T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by India Sri Lankagiving Indian players a clear understanding of pitches, weather and playing patterns. According to Akram, India’s biggest strengths lie in their deep batting line-up and versatile spin attack, both crucial in subcontinental conditions. He believes that if India manage their workload well and field a determined XI, they can dominate the tournament from the first round.
Australia’s big game temperament stands out
While discussing Australia, Akram highlighted their remarkable consistency in ICC tournaments. Australia‘s history of passing under pressure makes them a dangerous opponent in knockout competitions. Akram pointed out that Australian players are mentally strong, tactically disciplined and rarely get involved in high-risk scenarios. That calm approach, coupled with strong batting and aggressive fast bowling options, makes them almost automatic contenders for the semi-finals, he believes.
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South Africa’s balanced division earns Akram’s confidence
Akram also supported South Africahas marked a steady rise in white-ball cricket over the past few years. He praised the balanced cast, which combines experienced promoters with exciting young talent. Akram, in particular, believes South Africa’s pace attack can be a key weapon that can trouble even the strongest batting line-up on any surface. He feels South Africa have a real chance of going deep into the tournament if they maintain consistency and handle the crunch better.
New Zealand tagged silent performers
Completes Akram’s list New Zealanddescribed as ‘silent performers’. Despite often flying under the radar, New Zealand has developed a reputation for punching above its weight at global events. Akram admired their clarity of roles, sharp pitch, ability to quickly adapt to different conditions. In his opinion, these qualities make New Zealand a serious semi-final contender, if not always in the spotlight.
The center of attention of Akram’s chosen groups
It should be noted that India leads Group A, where they will face their arch-rivals Pakistan along with USA, Netherlands and Namibia. Australia have been drawn in Group B against hosts Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe and Oman. Meanwhile, South Africa and New Zealand have both been drawn in Group D, setting up a high-profile clash with Afghanistan, the UAE and Canada.
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