As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 enters its high-stakes Super Eight stage, the defending champions, India, find themselves in a formidable Group 1. With a flawless 4-0 record in the group stages, the Men in Blue are set to navigate a challenging path alongside South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the West Indies. The journey begins with a marquee clash against the Proteas in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22. Following this, India will lock horns with the “Chevrons” of Zimbabwe in Chennai on February 26, before concluding the phase against the West Indies in Kolkata on March 1.
Sanjay Bangar reveals three vital stars for India in ongoing T20 World Cup 2026
Speaking on the popular Star Sports show ‘Follow the Blues,’ former India all-rounder and batting coach Sanjay Bangar identified three players who will be the linchpins of India’s success in the knockout race. Leading his list is the explosive Ishan Kishan. Bangar noted that with Abhishek Sharma struggling for rhythm at the top, the responsibility of providing lightning-fast starts has shifted entirely to Kishan.
“From here on, three players who are going to be extremely critical… are going to be men in form, and that’s where I feel Ishan Kishan, the way he has been batting… the onus now falls on him to give those explosive starts,” Bangar remarked.
The statistics back this claim; Kishan has already amassed 176 runs in four innings at a staggering strike rate of 202.29.
Bangar’s second pick is the ever-reliable Suryakumar Yadav, who has anchored the middle order with 162 runs and an innate ability to read match situations. Finally, Bangar emphasized that while spin is a hot topic, Jasprit Bumrah remains the ultimate trump card. Despite having only four wickets so far, his elite economy rate of 6.00 ensures he remains the captain’s go-to man when the match is on the line.
“Player number two is Suryakumar Yadav. He has scored runs in most of the games on a consistent basis, understanding the situation of the game. The third player is going to be Jasprit Bumrah. Everybody is talking about the spin aspect of this Indian team, but I believe that Jasprit Bumrah is going to hold the key when the match is on the line as far as bowling is concerned,” he added.
India’s group of death scenario in Super eight group 1
India’s path to the semi-finals is anything but easy, as Group 1 features a collection of table-toppers and giant-killers. Unlike typical draws, this group assembles teams that have shown dominant form. South Africa enter the fray as last year’s runners-up, eager to avenge their 2024 final loss. Meanwhile, the West Indies remain a perennial threat in the shortest format, especially with the power-hitters they possess.
The inclusion of Zimbabwe adds a layer of unpredictability. The African nation secured their spot after a dramatic qualification run that saw perennial heavyweights Australia knocked out. With every team in Group 1 capable of beating the other on their day, India cannot afford a single slip-up. The tactical battle will likely revolve around how India’s in form trio handles the varied challenges of Ahmedabad’s ambience, Chennai’s turn, and the iconic atmosphere of Eden Gardens.
