India entered the Super 8 stage as defending champions.
But things went wrong quickly.
They suffered a crushing 76-run defeat to South Africa in Ahmedabad. That loss badly damaged India’s net run rate.
South Africa boosted their NRR to +3.800 after that dominant win.
In tournaments like this, net run rate often decides semi-final spots. That’s why fans are nervous.
Why Fans Are Panicking
After West Indies’ massive win, the Super 8 Group 1 table looks tight.
Zimbabwe dropped to the bottom with a -5.350 net run rate. West Indies jumped to the top with +5.350.
India now sit in a tricky position.
Even if India win their next two matches, qualification is not guaranteed. They must win big and improve their net run rate significantly.
Fans on X (formerly Twitter) have started calculating different scenarios. Some are hopeful. Others believe India may already be on the verge of elimination.
What India Must Do to Qualify
India face Zimbabwe on Thursday, February 26, in Chennai.
They then play West Indies on Sunday, March 1.
To stay alive:
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India must win both matches.
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They must win by strong margins.
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They need help from results in the South Africa vs West Indies clash.
If South Africa defeat West Indies and then beat Zimbabwe, India’s chances improve.
But if West Indies continue their dominance, India could be knocked out despite winning.
That uncertainty is what worries fans the most.
The Bottom Line
India are not out of the T20 World Cup 2026 yet.
But their path to the semi-final is no longer in their control.
Everything now depends on big wins and other match results.
The next two matchdays will decide whether the Men in Blue can defend their title — or head home early.
