Only four teams remain in the T20 World Cup as the semi-finalists prepare for decisive clashes this week. The tournament has narrowed from 20 teams to just four serious title contenders.
South Africa will face New Zealand in Kolkata on Wednesday. Defending champions India will take on England in Mumbai the following day. The winners will advance to the final.
Here is a closer look at the four semi-finalists and their chances.
South Africa
South Africa are the only unbeaten team in the competition. Led by Aiden Markram, they have won all seven matches so far. They secured important victories over India and the West Indies in the Super Eights.
The batting lineup is strong. Markram has scored 268 runs in seven matches. Quinton de Kock, Dewald Brevis, and David Miller add firepower. Lungi Ngidi leads the bowling with 12 wickets. Spinner Keshav Maharaj controls the middle overs.
However, past failures in major tournaments remain a concern. South Africa were runners-up in 2024 and have often fallen short at crucial moments.
New Zealand
New Zealand reached the semi-finals on net run-rate after a close Super Eights stage. They lost to England but advanced ahead of Pakistan.
Captain Mitchell Santner provides leadership and spin strength. Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra offer balance. Lockie Ferguson adds pace, while Ish Sodhi strengthens the spin attack.
Among the semi-finalists, New Zealand may lack big match-winners. They have also lost twice in the tournament.
England
England, led by Harry Brook, improved after a mixed group stage. They defeated Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the Super Eights.
Brook scored a century against Pakistan. All-rounder Will Jacks has been consistent. Jofra Archer has regained form with the ball.
Jos Buttler’s poor form remains a weakness. He has scored only 62 runs in seven matches.
India
India are defending champions and strong at home. They found rhythm in the Super Eights with wins over Zimbabwe and the West Indies.
Sanju Samson has strengthened the top order. Jasprit Bumrah continues to lead the pace attack. Varun Chakravarthy has taken 12 wickets.
Among the semi-finalists, India benefit from home support in Mumbai. However, Abhishek Sharma’s inconsistent form could be a concern.
As the semi-finals begin, all four semi-finalists remain strong contenders. The coming matches will decide who lifts the T20 World Cup trophy.
In other news read more about: Here’s How Pakistan Can Still Qualify for Champions Trophy Semi-Finals After Loss to India
