Kolkata: The line-up for the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has been finalised, with India, England, South Africa and New Zealand booking their spots in the last four after a gripping Super 8 stage.
India confirmed their semi-final berth with a five-wicket win over the West Indies in the final Super 8 fixture on Sunday at Eden Gardens. Chasing 195, India reached the target with four balls to spare, with Sanju Samson playing a crucial hand in the chase to guide the defending champions into the knockouts.
The result knocked the two-time champions West Indies out of the tournament and set up a blockbuster semi-final clash between India and England, repeating their rivalry from the previous edition.
South Africa, meanwhile, head into the semi-finals as the only unbeaten team in the tournament so far, after extending their winning streak with a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in Delhi. The Proteas finished on top of Group 1 and will face New Zealand in the first semi-final.
Captain Aiden Markram has been in excellent form, leading both with the bat and as skipper, as South Africa aim to go one step further after finishing runners-up in the last edition.
New Zealand sealed their place in the semi-finals after Pakistan failed to beat Sri Lanka by the required margin in their final Super 8 match, while England topped Group 2 with three wins in three games to comfortably qualify for the knockouts.
Semi-final schedule
March 4: South Africa vs New Zealand – Eden Gardens, Kolkata
March 5: India vs England – Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
The winners will meet in the final on March 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where the 2026 champion will be crowned.
With South Africa unbeaten, India in strong form, England dominant, and New Zealand consistent, the race for the T20 World Cup title is set for a thrilling finish.
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