EXPLAINED: Different T20 World Cup Super 8 scenarios for India, South Africa, Zimbabwe and West Indies

NEW DELHI: The ICC T20 World Cup semi-final race heats up. With three spots still to be filled and two coming from Super 8 Group 1, Thursday’s double header could go a long way in deciding the semifinalists from this group.

The first match features West Indies vs South Africa. The second game will see India take on Zimbabwe in what is a must win contest for both sides at the bottom.

T20 World Cup: India aim for strong comeback after hammering South Africa

At present, West Indies lead the table with two points and a towering net run rate of +5.350. South Africa are second with two points and +3.800. India and Zimbabwe are yet to register a win and are placed third and fourth with net run rates of -3.800 and -5.350 respectively.

With only one league match remaining for each team after today, net run rate could become decisive.

Possible qualification scenarios

Scenario 1: South Africa win and India win

• South Africa will move to four points and become strong favorites to qualify.
• India will move to two points and stay alive in the race.
• The final league match between India and West Indies would effectively become a knockout for the second semifinal spot, with net run rate potentially deciding the outcome.

Scenario 2: South Africa win and Zimbabwe win

• South Africa will move to four points almost qualifying.
• India will be eliminated after two defeats.
• The semi-final race will then be between South Africa, West Indies and Zimbabwe.
• Net run rate will play a crucial role, especially with South Africa and West Indies currently holding a big advantage.

Scenario 3: West Indies win and India win

• West Indies will jump to four points and be on the verge of qualification due to their massive net run rate.
• India will move to two points and their final clash against West Indies will become a virtual knockout.
• India would need a very big win to overturn the significant net run rate gap.

Scenario 4: West Indies win and Zimbabwe win

• West Indies will move to four points and become overwhelming favorites to qualify.
• India will be knocked out of the tournament.
• South Africa and Zimbabwe will then battle for the second semifinal spot, with net run rate again likely to be decisive.

England already through

Meanwhile, England have already become the first team to qualify for the semifinals. They sealed their spot after defeating Pakistan in a sensational contest powered by Harry Brook’s magnificent century, the first by an England captain in T20 World Cup history.