The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 has delivered thrilling action in the group stage's final matches, with surprise upsets, dominant wins, heartfelt tributes,
and key records. Zimbabwe and West Indies topped their groups unbeaten, while other teams wrapped up campaigns or sparked discussions ahead of the Super 8s.
Zimbabwe stun Sri Lanka with epic victory
Zimbabwe produced a stunning upset by defeating co-hosts Sri Lanka by six wickets in Colombo, chasing 179 with three balls to spare to finish Group B unbeaten and top the table. Brian Bennett anchored with an unbeaten 63, while captain Sikandar Raza blasted 45 off 26 balls, including crucial sixes. Their bowlers restricted Sri Lanka to 178/7 despite Pathum Nissanka's 62. This win follows their earlier shock over Australia.
Afghanistan end campaign with win over Canada
Afghanistan concluded their T20 World Cup group stage on a high with an emphatic 82-run victory over Canada in Chennai. Ibrahim Zadran smashed an unbeaten 95 off 56 balls as they posted 200/4. Mohammad Nabi then starred with 4/7 to bowl Canada out for 118/8. It was a morale-boosting farewell for outgoing coach Jonathan Trott, securing Afghanistan's second win despite earlier exits.
Zadran dedicates POTM award to coach Trott
Ibrahim Zadran dedicated his Player of the Match award to departing head coach Jonathan Trott after Afghanistan's commanding win over Canada. Scoring an unbeaten 95, Zadran praised Trott for his support and encouragement throughout ICC events. He expressed gratitude, noting Trott's teachings and wishing him well in his future endeavors, calling it a touching moment on Trott's last day with the team.
Italy bow out as West Indies advance to Super 8
West Indies secured an unbeaten group stage by defeating Italy by 42 runs in Kolkata, advancing to the Super 8s. Batting first, they posted 165/6 with Shai Hope's 75. Shamar Joseph took 4/30 and Matthew Forde 3/19 as Italy were bowled out for 123 in 18 overs despite efforts from Ben Manenti (26). West Indies dominated with four straight wins.
Shadab Khan warned by Ex-Pakistan players
Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan faced backlash and a warning from the Pakistan Cricket Board after remarks targeting former players. Following a strong performance against Namibia, he claimed legends couldn't match recent feats like beating India in a World Cup. The PCB, via team manager, advised him to respect greats-including his father-in-law Saqlain Mushtaq-and avoid harsh language, warning of potential disciplinary steps.
India mull over Sanju-Abhishek conundrum
India face a selection dilemma ahead of Super 8s due to Abhishek Sharma's poor form, including three consecutive ducks in the World Cup (five in 2026 T20Is total), equaling Sanju Samson's unwanted record for most ducks by an Indian in a calendar year. With Abhishek struggling at the top, discussions arise on whether to replace him with Samson, though India's wins continue despite batting concerns.
Sikandar Raza breaks Rohit Sharma record
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza broke Rohit Sharma's record as the oldest captain to win a Player of the Match award in an ICC event during the win over Sri Lanka. At 39 years and 301 days, he surpassed Rohit's mark from the 2025 Champions Trophy. Raza's all-round show (45 off 26 and economical bowling) earned him POTM, also boosting his T20I accolades and Zimbabwe's historic campaign.
