After Zimbabwe Triumph, India Gear Up for Winner-Takes-All Battle with West Indies

New Delhi: T20 World Cup 2026 has now reached its most exciting point. Two teams have secured tickets for the semi-finals, while there is a tough competition between four contenders for the remaining two places. South Africa from Group-1 and England from Group-2 have made it to the last four. Now eyes are on India, West Indies, New Zealand and Pakistan.

Is the road still not easy even after the victory over Zimbabwe?

India has kept its hopes alive in the tournament by registering a big 72-run win against Zimbabwe. This match was like 'do or die' for India. After the win, Team India has 2 points in its account, but the net run rate is still slightly negative (-0.100). Now the last Super-8 match is to be played against West Indies in Kolkata on March 1. This match will be the real test for India.

What does the mathematics of the semi-finals say?

South Africa has already qualified from Group 1. Both India and West Indies have 2 points each, but West Indies has a much better net run rate with 1.791. The simple thing is that the match between India and West Indies is a virtual quarterfinal. The team that wins will reach the semi-finals. The journey of the losing team will end here. There is no equation for India now, only victory is the option.

How strong is New Zealand's position?

In Group-2, England is in the semi-finals with two wins. New Zealand has won one match and one was abandoned in rain. Its net run rate is 3.050, which is quite strong. If New Zealand beats England, their path will be cleared. But in case of defeat, the equations may change and Pakistan may get a chance.

On what are Pakistan's hopes pinned?

Pakistan currently has 1 point. He has to play Sri Lanka on 28th February. If it wins this match, it will get 3 points. But along with this it will also have to pray for New Zealand's defeat by England. If New Zealand loses and Pakistan wins big, it can move ahead on the basis of better net run rate. That means the path to Pakistan is certainly difficult, but not closed.

What next?

The picture will become completely clear in these few days. India has both an opportunity and a challenge. The path will open as soon as West Indies are defeated. This period is going to be very exciting for cricket lovers. The answer to which two teams will make it to the final four will now be found on the field.