T20 World Cup 2026: Will India, Pakistan clash on Holi? Know detailed equation for semi-finals

New Delhi: The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 has now reached its most crucial stage: the Super 8. The tournament, which began with 20 teams, has now been reduced to eight. The first Super 8 match was scheduled to be between Pakistan and New Zealand, but the match was abandoned without a single ball being bowled due to rain. It's becoming increasingly interesting to see who the four teams will be that will advance to the semi-finals. There's also a buzz surrounding the India-Pakistan match.

India and Pakistan played in the group stage on February 15th, which Team India won. Fans are now wondering whether the two teams will face each other again in this tournament. Let's answer that question.

Could India and Pakistan face each other again?

India and Pakistan were in the same group in the group stage of this tournament. The two teams also played each other, with India registering a resounding victory by defeating Pakistan by 61 runs. There was considerable controversy before the match. The Pakistan Cricket Board even threatened a boycott, and ICC officials even went to Lahore. But the match was eventually played, and India's dominance was evident on the field.

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India's 8-1 record against Pakistan in T20 World Cup history demonstrates its strength. India and Pakistan are now in different groups in the Super 8.

Also Read: T20 World Cup: What happens if a Super 8 match is abandoned due to rain? Learn the ICC rules

Group 1: Zimbabwe, South Africa, West Indies, and India
Group 2: New Zealand, England, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan

The rules for the Super 8 are clear. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals. Therefore, a rematch between India and Pakistan is possible only if both teams finish in the top two in their respective groups.

If India finishes first or second in Group 1 and Pakistan also finishes in the top two in Group 2, the two teams could meet in the semi-finals. This could lead to another high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan.

Also Read: New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 WC Highlights: Rain washes out first Super 8 match, New Zealand-Pakistan match cancelled

Where will the semi-finals be played?

According to the current schedule, if India reaches the semi-finals, they will play the second semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium on March 5th. This would have been a major advantage for India on home soil.

But there is a special condition here. If the semi-final is between India and Pakistan, the match will not be played in Mumbai. It will be shifted to Sri Lanka. Then, the match will be held on March 4th. This decision is part of a hybrid agreement between the two cricket boards, under which India-Pakistan ICC matches will be held at neutral venues until the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The implication is clear. If Pakistan fails to reach the semi-finals, India will play in Mumbai. However, if Pakistan qualifies and is scheduled to play against India, Team India will have to travel to Sri Lanka. Interestingly, if the India-Pakistan semi-final is held in Colombo, the Indian team will take the field on Holi. This means the match will be played on March 4th.