Abhishek Sharma‘s bad patch remains a focal point ahead of the India vs South Africa Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026. Abhishek Sharma sustained three ducks in a row, which marked the latest low in his professional cricket career.

Ahead of the match, which is scheduled to be held on February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, South Africa, batting coach Ashwell Prince reacts to the Indian opener’s ongoing off form.

During an exclusive interview with Times Now, Ashwell Prince did not want to make any direct comment for any players of the opposing team. He clearly stated that his team’s focus is completely on the upcoming games.

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The India vs South Africa match will be equally crucial for both of the teams. The winner will take a stride forward into the semifinals, and the defeated side will have to win the rest of the two games to keep the hope for the semifinals alive.

Despite Abhishek Sharma’s back-to-back ducks, the former South Africa opener praised the Indian batter, describing him as a fantastic player. Prince explains that every individual player has highs and lows; Abhishek Sharma, a young batter, will experience a lot of these.

Abhishek Sharma is a fantastic player: South Africa batting coach

“I obviously don’t want to make too many comments about any individuals in the Indian team. At the end of the day, he’s a young man, and he will learn that in his cricket career. He will have highs, and that will happen a lot more in the future as well; not only once in your life will that happen”, Prince said.

“But he’s a fantastic player, and we know how dangerous he can be. But from our side, know, our focus is not on one of the Indian players,” the South Africa batting coach opined.

Ashwell Prince, 48, emphasized that their sole focus is on the entire Team India, not only on any individual. Acknowledging India’s batting strength, he said that the Proteas put their efforts into surpassing the opposition’s total.

“They have got a strong lineup. So we have to focus on the whole lineup and the whole team and try and see how we can score one run more than them. That’s the goal. So as I say, the focus on the Indian team is not only on one player,” he further added.

Prince explained about their game plane

The former international believes that all three matches in the Super 8 will be highly competitive. Apart from India, they will have to face the West Indies and New Zealand, who topped their respective groups. But for now, South Africa is paying attention only to the India match.

“It is a big match tomorrow, but so are the matches, the rest of the matches in the Super 8s, against the West Indies, who also topped their group, and against Zimbabwe, who also topped their group. So the three matches as a whole, they will all be tough matches. The focus for now is tomorrow’s match against India,” Ashwell Prince concluded.

Read More: South Africa coach opens up on Dewald Brevis’ poor form ahead of India clash

India and South Africa will be again standing against each other on February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This time for a Super 8 match of the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

The memories of the T20 World Cup 2024 are still fresh among the cricket fans, and perhaps among the cricketers as well. But Quinton de Kock clearly said that they are not fond of recollecting painful moments.

India won the final of 2024 T20 WC defeating South Africa

In the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup, it was another India vs South Africa clash. The Proteas were very close to breaking their trophy jinx in the ICC events. Experienced David Miller was there in the middle during the closing moments of the match as well.

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But it was the Men in Blue who snatched the silverware right in front of the Aiden Markram-led side. India won the match in the final over of the summit clash by 7 runs and left South Africa heartbroken.

Hardik Pandya and Virat Kohli turned the table

On June 29, 2024, at the Kensington Oval, Barbados, Bridgetown, India went to bat first after winning the toss. Powered by Virat Kohli’s 76 and Axar Patel‘s 47, India posted 176 for 7 in 20 overs, which was not among the best totals posted by the team.

In the second innings, Quinton de Kock (39) provided South Africa a strong start. Later, Heinrich Klaasen (52) and Tristan Stubbs (31) drove the team near to the finish line. In the crucial phase of the run chase, Hardik Pandya took the matter on his shoulder and picked up a couple of wickets in the form of Klaasen and Miller; both of them were set batters. Miller’s departure left South Africa without any proper batter on the pitch, and they eventually lost the match by only a few inches.

We just forgot about it: Quinton de Kock

After the match, more than a year has passed away; teams went through ups and downs and transition phases as well. But the South Africans are maintaining their mentality—leave the bad memories behind, and move forward.

“To be honest, after that game, we just forgot about it. In all honesty, none of us wanted to speak about it. We went home and went through our own processes about how to deal with it. That’s pretty much it. We have never really spoken about it,” Quinton De Kock said in the pre-match press conference of their upcoming fixture with India.

The upcoming match is equally crucial for both of the teams. The winner of the match will increase their chances to play in the semifinals by a few marks, while for the losing side, the remaining two matches will be must-win events to stay in the title race.

Read More: IND vs SA Preview – Match 43, Super 8 Group 1: Free Live Streaming, Pitch & Weather Report, Head-to-head | T20 World Cup 2026

Former Pakistan skipper Mohammad Hafeez lashed out at Pakistan’s men’s cricket team head coach Mike Hesson for making some comments over Babar Azam’s strike rate in the format. For Hafeez, Hesson’s comments made no sense.

The former cricketer claimed that he went through Mike Hesson’s comments multiple times but couldn’t decode the meaning of them.

Why there are noises around Babar Azam

During an interaction season with Game On Hai, Hafeez criticized the coach heavily. Hesson, in the pre-match press for their Super 8 match with New Zealand, stated that Babar Azam’s strike rate is not suitable for top-order batting when the team needs to score runs at a quick pace.

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After being demolished by Team India, Pakistan had no option but to outclass Namibia in their final group clash. During the must-win match with Namibia, while Pakistan’s opener Sahibzada Farhan scored a splendid century, Babar Azam, who was assigned to bat at number 4, did not come to bat because of management’s decision.

Pakistan head coach criticised Azam’s strike rate

Pakistan’s win over Namibia was not enough to distinguish the doubts around Babar Azam’s role in the team. The right-handed batter, who has been struggling with form in the format, still holds the top spot in the list of most runs in a career in T20Is with 4571 runs in 144 matches.

“I think he’s well aware that his strike rate in the powerplay in (T20) World Cups is less than 100. “So clearly, that’s not a role that we think we need here,” Mike Hesson said in the press conference when he was asked about Azam’s role in the setup.

“We think he’s a fine player through the middle, if required, in terms of if we’re in a little bit of trouble. Or as we saw against the USA, once he gets himself set, he can increase his strike rate at that point. So, we brought Babar back in for a specific role post the Asia Cup. We wanted some batsmanship through the middle, and he certainly brought that for us,” he continued.

Hafeez raised a question against Mike Hesson

Hesson’s comments did not go well with Mohammad Hafeez. The former skipper questioned, If the batter is not for the strategy, then why is he in the playing combination?

“He (Mike Hesson) said neither he’s a powerplay batter because his strike rate is 100… I read this statement 15 times, but I didn’t understand, which is why I am asking you, because you are like an elder brother, maybe you’ll understand. He said that Babar can’t bat in the first six overs, because his strike-rate is quite low; he gave that stat, nor could he bat after the 10th over. Toh vo khel kyu raha hai? (Why is he playing?)” Hafeez straightaway said.

Read More: A positive that Abhishek Sharma has got three zeros: Ravi Shastri offers bizarre verdict on India opener’s poor form

England’s limited-overs captain Harry Brook has voiced his strong disapproval regarding reports that Pakistan players are being excluded from the Hundred 2026 auction by franchises under Indian ownership. Speaking from the T20 World Cup 2026 on February 21, 2026, Brook emphasized that the absence of such high-caliber talent would be a massive detriment to the competition’s quality and global appeal.

‘It would be a shame’: England captain Harry Brook calls for inclusivity

Addressing the media just a day before England’s high-stakes Super 8s match against Sri Lanka, the 26-year-old skipper was vocal about the importance of having the world’s best players, regardless of nationality. Brook expressed high regard for Pakistan’s cricketing prowess and the unique energy their players bring to any tournament.

“Pakistan have been a great cricket nation for many years and have some awesome players, some of the best players in the world. I think there’s about 50 or 60 players in the auction and it would be a shame to not see some of them in there. There’s some amazing cricketers and they bring some great crowds as well. So it would be a shame to not see some of the Pakistan players in there and make the tournament and competition even better.” Brook was quoted as saying by BBC Sports.

The controversy erupted following a BBC Sport investigation revealing that the four franchises recently acquired by Indian Premier League (IPL) owners, Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers Leeds—are unlikely to consider Pakistan players during the March 11–12 auction.

Also READ: Michael Vaughan faces backlash after urging ECB to curb Indian owners over Pakistan players’ snub from The Hundred 2026

The Hundred 2026: Brook’s new role at Sunrisers Leeds

Despite the friction surrounding his team’s ownership, Brook remains the face of Sunrisers Leeds (formerly Northern Superchargers). He is set to become the tournament’s highest-paid player with a staggering £465,000 (approx. ₹5.26 crore) fee, yet he has made the strategic decision to relinquish the captaincy to focus on his batting and international leadership.

“I am staying away from that stuff and will let the head coach and whoever is in charge control that. My main focus at the minute is to play the T20 World Cup.” Brook concluded.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has joined the outcry, urging the ECB to intervene immediately. Vaughan argued on social media that “the ECB need to act fast… they own the league and this should not be allowed to happen. The most inclusive sport in the country is not one that allows this to happen.” With the auction weeks away, the pressure is mounting on the ECB to ensure their anti-discrimination policies are upheld.

Also READ: Here’s why half of The Hundred teams might avoid signing Pakistani players in 2026

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, has reached its most critical juncture: the Super 8 stage. Following a high-octane group phase that saw the shock exit of former champions Australia, the final eight teams have been divided into two groups of four. The Super 8 phase begins today, February 21, 2026, and will run through March 1.

The early rounds delivered drama, upsets and nerve-wracking finishes, setting the stage for an intense battle among the remaining heavyweights. With the margins getting thinner and pressure mounting, every game from here on could define the road to the final.

Super 8 Groups and format explained

The Super 8 stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup features two powerhouse groups determined by a combination of group-stage performance and pre-tournament seedings.

Group 1 is a high-stakes bracket consisting of India and South Africa, along with the West Indies and the surprise package Zimbabwe, who secured their spot by knocking out Australia in one of the biggest shocks of the tournament. Meanwhile, Group 2 brings together a formidable lineup of Pakistan, England, New Zealand, and co-hosts Sri Lanka.

In this round-robin phase, each team plays the other three in their 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 virtually no room for error. Net run rate could once again play a decisive role if teams finish level on points.

Also READ: Richard Kettleborough and Chris Gaffaney to oversee India vs South Africa clash as ICC announces T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 officials

Mohammad Kaif, Yuzvendra Chahal and others reveal their top four picks

As anticipation builds ahead of the Super 8 clashes, former cricketers and experts have shared their predictions for the semifinalists — and while some names are common, there are a few bold calls.

In a chat on Star Sports, former India batter Mohammad Kaif backed India, South Africa, England and New Zealand to progress to the final four. Kaif’s picks reflect a blend of current form and tournament pedigree, with emphasis on balanced squads capable of handling pressure in crunch situations.

India’s highest wicket-taking spinner in T20Is, Yuzvendra Chahal, echoed Kaif’s choices. Chahal also selected India, South Africa, England and New Zealand as his semifinalists, underlining the belief that these four teams possess both depth and experience to navigate the Super 8 stage successfully. However, not everyone agreed.

Former India pacer Varun Aaron made arguably the boldest prediction. He went with India, West Indies, England and Pakistan — notably leaving out both South Africa and New Zealand. Aaron’s selection of the West Indies hints at faith in their explosive T20 brand of cricket, especially in subcontinental conditions.

Meanwhile, former India coach Sanjay Bangar offered an interesting combination, backing Pakistan, India, South Africa and Sri Lanka to reach the last four. Bangar’s inclusion of Sri Lanka suggests confidence in the hosts leveraging home advantage during the decisive phase.

Also READ: NZ vs PAK, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8: Colombo Weather Forecast and Dew Factor

The opening fixture of the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 stage ended in frustration on February 21, 2026, as persistent tropical rain in Colombo forced the highly anticipated clash between Pakistan and New Zealand to be abandoned. Despite the best efforts of the ground staff at the R. Premadasa Stadium, the heavens opened immediately after the toss, leaving fans and players in a prolonged, sodden wait.

This ‘No Result’ means both teams share a single point, a result that adds immense pressure to their upcoming fixtures against Group 2 heavyweights England and Sri Lanka. With no reserve day allocated for this round, the weather has effectively turned the remaining Super 8 matches into must-win knockout encounters for both sides.

Colombo rain denies Pakistan and New Zealand a T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 fast-start

The R. Premadasa Stadium transformed into a sea of blue tarpaulins as monsoon-like weather completely derailed the start of Group 2’s Super 8 proceedings. Following the toss at 6:30 PM, where Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha confirmed a tactical shift by bringing in the experienced Fakhar Zaman for Khawaja Nafay, a steady drizzle quickly intensified into a heavy downpour.

New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, back in the side after a stomach bug, had opted for a spin-heavy attack featuring Ish Sodhi and Lockie Ferguson, but the tactical battle never materialized as the drainage system was eventually overwhelmed by the volume of water. As the cut-off time of 10:16 PM approached for a minimum five-over game, the umpires held several inspections, but the sodden outfields and continuous puddling near the boundary ropes made play impossible.

The match was officially called off at 9:10 PM IST, leaving the ‘Men in Green’ and the ‘Black Caps’ to share the points without a single ball being delivered. This washout is particularly bittersweet for Pakistan, who entered the match with high momentum after a thumping win over Namibia, only to have their strategy stalled by the elements. For the Kiwis, the shared point is equally frustrating, as they sought to exploit the spin-friendly Colombo tracks with their returning veterans.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Is there a reserve day for Pakistan vs New Zealand Super 8 game? Here’s what we know

What lies ahead for Group 2 after Pakistan vs New Zealand clash washed out

The abandonment of the Colombo opener has drastically shifted the qualification math for Group 2, leaving both Pakistan and New Zealand with zero margin for error in their final two matches. Pakistan now travels to the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy for a high-voltage clash against England on February 24, a team they have historically struggled against in T20 World Cups.

This match is now essentially a quarter-final; a loss would leave Pakistan needing a miracle to reach the semi-finals, especially with a looming final group game against co-hosts Sri Lanka on February 28. Similarly, New Zealand faces a grueling path, starting with a match against a formidable Sri Lankan side on February 25 back at the R. Premadasa Stadium, followed by a showdown with England on February 27.

The shared point leaves both teams tied for second in the live standings, but with England and Sri Lanka yet to play their opening game tomorrow in Kandy, the pressure is on the “washout teams” to keep pace with the winners of that encounter. Fans will be keeping a close eye on the Pallekele weather forecast, as another rain-affected game could turn Group 2 into a chaotic scramble decided by Net Run Rate or even higher-seeded pre-tournament rankings.

Here’s how fans reacted: 

NZ probably the team Pak feared the most in Group B, so perhaps a good point for them. But this was the only Super 8 game they were playing at the Premadasa. Their spinners may not have such a big say in Kandy..#PAKvNZ #T20WorldCup

— Hemant (@hemantbuch) February 21, 2026

Pak vs NZ called off, abandoned without a ball being bowled.
Kiska nafa? Kiska nuksan?#PakvsNZ #ICCT20WorldCup2026

— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) February 21, 2026

Official! One point each.
Not the ideal way to finish a contest, but in tournaments every point counts. If Pak stay sharp with their net run rate and execution in the next games, this shared point could still prove valuable in the bigger picture.#PAKvNZ #T20WorldCup

— Mansoor Rana (@mansoorrana205) February 21, 2026

So the match between Pakistan and New Zealand is officially andondend !!! Rain has given it’s call and it’s over !! 1 point for each team !!#PAKvsNZ #PAKvNZ #T20WorldCup #T20WorldCup2026 #T20WC2026 pic.twitter.com/gd0rElzAtb

— Laiba Khan (@TheLaibaKhan) February 21, 2026

Everyone thought matches in SL will always have risk of rain interruption before the start of this #T20WorldCup. It didn’t bother much in the group games but it’s not the case for the first super 8 game. Such games would have huge impact in this group #PAKvNZ #NZvPAK https://t.co/UGuW7QPRXc

— Gaurav Jindal (@gauravgjindal) February 21, 2026

Officially called off. 1 point each for Pakistan & New Zealand.

— Aatif Nawaz (@AatifNawaz) February 21, 2026

Pakistan and New Zealand both got 1 point each as match called off due to rain . Now Pakistan must has to win from either Sri Lanka or england to qualify . Pak vs Nz pic.twitter.com/EmdGMQHNtN

— Khan (@ccricket713) February 21, 2026

Hard luck for New Zealand. They had to share a point with Pakistan due to rain. That one extra point might now help them qualify for the semifinals.

— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) February 21, 2026

Rain saving Pakistan yet again pic.twitter.com/dqvoHmxSWs

— Haydos🛡️ (@GovindIstSTH) February 21, 2026

🌧️ RAIN STOPS PLAY, NOT RESPECT!

Salman Ali Agha & Mitchell Santner exchange handshakes 🤝

A classy end to a washed-out game 🏏#PAKvsNZ #colombo #Pakistan #T20WorldCup #cricket #NewZealand #T20WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/o6qrpiYmFx

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 21, 2026

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Harbhajan Singh predicts Team India’s playing XI for Super 8 clash against South Africa

The Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is heating up, and one of the most anticipated contests sees India take on South Africa in a high-stakes encounter. With both teams carrying strong momentum into the second phase, the fixture is being viewed as a potential preview of the final.

India, the defending champions, have looked composed and confident so far, while South Africa have once again showcased their depth in both departments. When these two cricketing giants collide, margins are slim and moments of brilliance often determine the outcome. The clash is expected to test India’s batting depth against South Africa’s versatile bowling attack on a surface that could offer assistance to seamers early on.

With knockout implications looming, every session, every over and every tactical decision will carry enormous weight.

Varun Aaron on biggest threat for Team India for South Africa clash

Former India pacer Varun Aaron believes South Africa’s left-arm quick Marco Jansen could pose the biggest threat to India’s top order in this crucial Super 8 fixture.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Aaron pointed out that Jansen’s unique attributes make him particularly dangerous against India’s opening pair. According to him, Jansen does more than just extract bounce from his towering height — he also generates sharp deviation off the surface, especially moving the ball away from left-handed batters.

Aaron specifically highlighted how the angle and movement away from Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma could create problems. While both batters are aggressive and capable of taking the game away in the powerplay, Aaron noted that deliveries that “nibble away off the deck” can occasionally trouble them.

“I just feel with their bowlers, I think Marco Jansen poses the biggest threat because he’s somebody who just doesn’t get bounce. He also gets a lot of deviation off the surface, especially away to Ishan and Abhishek. And if you talk about Ishan and Abhishek, they’re really good players, but if as a bowler you can get the ball to nibble away off the deck away from them, that’s where they slightly struggle,” said Aaron.

He emphasized that if India manage to neutralize Jansen’s early spell and blunt his impact with the new ball, they would significantly improve their chances of dominating the contest. In a match where early wickets could shift momentum dramatically, handling Jansen’s threat could be the key to setting up or chasing a competitive total.

South Africa’s bowling attack, featuring experienced campaigners and quality seam options, adds another layer of challenge. But in Aaron’s view, Jansen’s combination of height, seam movement and ability to exploit conditions makes him the standout danger man for India.

“So I feel if they can negate that Jansen threat, I think they’ll be flying,” added Aaron.

Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar predicts one change in India’s playing XI for the Super 8 clash against South Africa in T20 World Cup 2026

Expectations high from defending champions

As the Super 8 stage begins, the tournament has undeniably entered its most serious phase. Expectations are sky-high from defending champions India, who carry both the confidence of past success and the pressure of living up to it.

Led by the dynamic Suryakumar Yadav, India boast a line-up packed with match-winners. The squad includes explosive batters, versatile all-rounders and a pace attack capable of delivering under pressure. Players like Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah add balance and experience, while the young core provides fearlessness and flair.

Fans believe this team has the tools to shine on the big stage once again. However, the Super 8 phase demands adaptability and composure against elite opposition. South Africa will not make things easy, and India must bring their A-game to maintain their title defence momentum.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Shaun Pollock names two key bowlers for India in the Super 8 game against South Africa

The Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to witness a high-voltage encounter as India lock horns with South Africa in Ahmedabad on February 22. The fixture carries added spice, as both sides were finalists in the previous edition, where India emerged victorious to lift the trophy.

This time around, the stakes feel just as high. Both teams have entered the Super 8 phase as strong title contenders and are widely tipped to go deep into the tournament once again. With a place in the knockout stage on the line and pride at stake, fans are expecting nothing less than a thriller when these two heavyweights collide at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

India have shown composure and depth in their campaign so far, while South Africa have displayed their trademark aggression and discipline. The rematch of the last final promises intensity, tactical battles, and moments of individual brilliance that could define the tournament’s trajectory.

Harbhajan Singh picks India’s playing XI for South Africa game

Team combination is likely to play a decisive role in Ahmedabad, a venue known for offering assistance to both batters and bowlers depending on conditions. With that in mind, former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has shared his predicted playing XI for the crucial encounter.

Speaking on Star Sports, Harbhajan emphasized that India should avoid unnecessary changes. According to him, continuity has been one of India’s biggest strengths in the tournament. He believes the side that featured earlier against the USA was “absolutely correct” and should largely remain intact for the South Africa challenge.

The only alteration he foresees is the return of Axar Patel. Harbhajan highlighted Axar’s importance as vice-captain and as a dependable all-round option who can deliver regardless of whether a left-hander or right-hander is at the crease. His presence adds balance to the side, offering control in the middle overs and depth with the bat.

Harbhajan’s probable XI for the clash includes: Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Varun Chakaravarthy.

It’s a line-up packed with firepower at the top, versatility in the middle order, and a bowling unit capable of defending or restricting totals on a big stage.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: India vs South Africa Super 8 Ticket Prices, Booking Details

Superstars set for a spectacle at Narendra Modi Stadium

There is no shortage of star power on either side. India will bank on the flair of Suryakumar Yadav, the fearless strokeplay of Abhishek Sharma, and the all-round influence of Hardik Pandya. With the ball, the lethal pace of Jasprit Bumrah and the control of Axar Patel could prove decisive.

South Africa, however, possess a formidable arsenal of their own. Captain Aiden Markram brings calm leadership and power-hitting ability, while Quinton de Kock can take the game away in the powerplay. Their bowling attack, featuring Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Keshav Maharaj, ensures they remain competitive in any situation.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Shaun Pollock names two key bowlers for India in the Super 8 game against South Africa

The tension at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is palpable as the opening Super 8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026 remains in a state of limbo. While Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and elected to bat first, the weather had other plans, with a heavy downpour forcing the ground staff to bring the covers on before a single ball could be bowled. The “waiting game” is now in full swing, and both teams are currently confined to their dressing rooms as the rain intensity fluctuates. Fans are glued to the radar, hoping for a window of play in what is a crucial encounter for Group 2.

T20 World Cup 2026: Is there a reserve day for the Pakistan vs New Zealand game?

To the immense frustration of fans and tacticians alike, there is strictly no reserve day available for the Pakistan vs. New Zealand Super 8 fixture. The ICC tournament regulations for 2026 are explicit: reserve days are an exclusive luxury for the Knockout Stage, meaning only the two semi-finals and the grand final have a 24-hour backup plan. If the clouds do not break and the pitch remains under covers tonight, there is no option to resume the contest tomorrow; the game will be recorded exactly as it stands, or fails to stand.

“According to International Cricket Council (ICC) rules, reserve days are kept only for the knockout matches. The semifinals and the final have one reserve day each in the T20 World Cup 2026. At least a five-over match is required for a result to come out.”

The match officials have activated an additional 90-minute buffer to compensate for the delay, but the time for a full 20-over game has already evaporated. We are now approaching the critical 8:10 PM IST mark, after which overs will begin to be deducted systematically.

T20 World Cup 2026: What happens next if Pakistan vs New Zealand is washed out?

If the rain continues to lash the R. Premadasa Stadium and the match is officially abandoned, the consequences for Group 2 will be seismic. Per ICC rules, a “No Result” declaration means both Pakistan and New Zealand will share 1 point each. While this keeps both teams on the board, it is a nightmare scenario in a group that includes heavyweights England and Sri Lanka, where every decimal point in the Net Run Rate (NRR) and every outright win is worth its weight in gold.

“In case the Pakistan vs. New Zealand clash gets washed out due to rain, both teams will share points, which will further dent their chances of a semifinal entry. The final time for a five-overs-per-side contest is 10:16 PM IST.”

A washout would essentially turn the remaining two matches for both sides into “must-win” virtual quarter-finals. Pakistan would head into their February 24 clash against England under massive pressure, knowing that any further slip-up would end their World Cup dreams. For now, all eyes are on the 10:16 PM IST cut-off—the absolute latest moment a 5-over-a-side “sprint” can begin to determine a winner on the field rather than in the points table

As the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 shifts into high gear, the Super 8 stage presents a mouth-watering clash between two undefeated heavyweights: India and South Africa. Set to take place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22, this fixture carries significant weight for the Men in Blue as they look to defend their crown. Amidst the tactical buzz, former Indian wicketkeeper-batter and renowned commentator Deep Dasgupta has weighed in on the selection headaches facing the Indian management, specifically regarding the balance of the bowling attack.

Deep Dasgupta reveals his India XI choices for the Super 8 clash against South Africa

Dasgupta believes that India’s final XI will hinge on two “interconnected” decisions, primarily involving the choice between spin-bowling all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. According to Dasgupta, the selection is not just about the individual players, but how they facilitate the usage of India’s spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah.

“If Arshdeep Singh is playing, they might go with Axar Patel,” Dasgupta noted during an interaction on Star Sports. However, he argued that if the team decides to bench Arshdeep to bolster another department, Sundar becomes the primary choice. The rationale lies in Sundar’s proficiency with the new ball. By having Washington bowl the initial powerplay overs, captain Suryakumar Yadav gains the “freedom” to preserve Bumrah’s four overs for high-impact phases later in the innings.

Dasgupta also pointed out that South Africa’s batting lineup—featuring left-handers like Quinton de Kock, Ryan Rickelton, and David Miller—makes a compelling case for Washington’s off-spin. He observed that Washington was likely given a game against the Netherlands specifically to get into the groove for this specific tactical matchup. Importantly, Dasgupta reassured fans that opting for Sundar over Axar wouldn’t hurt the team’s batting depth, stating that “Washington is no mug with the bat either” at the number eight position.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: R Ashwin reflects on India’s form, highlights bright signs before Super 8

India’s dominant path with an unbeaten streak to the Super 8s

India enter the Super 8 stage riding a massive wave of momentum, having finished the group stage with a perfect record. Their journey through Group A was a testament to their clinical consistency, securing four wins in as many matches.

The Men in Blue kicked off their campaign with a 29-run victory over the USA, followed by a dominant 93-run win against Namibia. The high-voltage clash against arch-rivals Pakistan in Colombo saw India emerge victorious by 61 runs, a result that effectively sealed their progression. In their final group game against the Netherlands in Ahmedabad, India posted a formidable 193/6, headlined by Shivam Dube’s explosive 66 off 31 balls. Despite a spirited chase from the Dutch, India held their nerve to win by 17 runs, extending their T20I winning streak to an incredible 12 matches.

This unbeaten run has been defined by a different “Player of the Match” in nearly every game, from Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya to Ishan Kishan and Dube, showcasing a squad where everyone is contributing to the collective goal.

Deep Dasgupta’s predicted India XI:

Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

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