With their campaign hanging in the balance, India will be eager to respond with a strong performance tonight in Chennai.
Sanju Samson is playing only his second game in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 after making an appearance against Namibia
Business Standard looks at the possible outcomes and how the result of the West Indies vs South Africa match could shape India's semifinal chances.
The surface in Chennai is typically batting-friendly, and totals in the 170-180 range are often within reach.
The Men in Blue began their Super Eight campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a comprehensive 76-run defeat against South Africa national cricket team.
India's press conference on the eve of the match at 4 PM IST is likely to shed more light on the XI but before that Business Standard take a look at cues from the practice session.
ICC T20 World Cup HIGHLIGHTS: South Africa, with four points, are now at the top of the Group 1 points table
The top spot in the Group 1 points table of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 round will be on the line when West Indies take the field against South Africa
A win for South Africa against West Indies will put them in the semi-finals as the second team alongside England
The surface in Ahmedabad promises excellent conditions for a high-scoring contest.
Both India and Zimbabwe suffered defeats in their previous matches - India against South Africa and Zimbabwe against the West Indies - making Thursday's fixture crucial for semi-final qualification
With both unbeaten teams packed with some tremendous power-hitters, there is an expectation of a high-scoring contest
New Zealand had slumped to 84/6 in 12.1 overs after losing four wickets in a dramatic middle-order collapse
Shanaka apologised to his country for the disappointing ouster from the Super Eight stage after a 61-run loss to New Zealand, following a 51-run defeat at the hands of England
While dismissing panic, Kotak acknowledged that selection conversations are active. "There can be changes, yes," he admitted when asked about possible alterations involving Samson and Axar
A 2-wicket win courtesy of a Harry Brook hundred for England on the night meant that the Three Lions have confirmed their qualification into the semi-final with 2 wins in as many games.
Pakistan currently have just one point from a shared result, leaving them with two must-win games against heavyweights England and co-hosts Sri Lanka.
ICC T20 World Cup HIGHLIGHTS: Sri Lanka has become the first team to be eliminated from the Super 8 round of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Sri Lanka are under immediate pressure following a heavy 51-run loss to England national cricket team in their Super Eight opener.
New Zealand's Super Eight opener against Pakistan was washed out without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain in Colombo.