The 2026 T20 World Cup has entered its most electrifying phase, with both India and Pakistan confirming their Super 8 berths and a potential blockbuster clash between the two rivals now firmly on the horizon — possibly as early as the semi-finals on March 4.

Friday's final group stage fixture — Australia vs. Oman — is a dead rubber, with both sides already eliminated. All eyes now shift to the Super 8s, where every match carries knockout-level stakes and a single misstep could end a team's campaign.

Eight teams have been divided into two groups for the Super 8 stage, with each side playing three matches. The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, making every encounter a must-watch.

Group 1: India, South Africa, West Indies, Zimbabwe

Group 2: Pakistan, New Zealand, England, Sri Lanka

A total of 12 matches will be played across the two groups before the semi-finalists are decided.

The action begins on February 21 with New Zealand taking on Pakistan at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium — a crucial early marker in Group 2. The following day sees India face South Africa at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, in what promises to be a marquee Group 1 encounter. India's subsequent fixtures are against Zimbabwe in Chennai on February 26 and West Indies in Kolkata on March 1. Pakistan's matches are expected to be largely hosted on Sri Lankan grounds.

The clash that has captured the imagination of fans worldwide hinges on the Super 8 standings. Under the tournament's crossover rule, if India tops Group 1 and Pakistan finishes as Group 2 runners-up — or vice versa — the two sides could meet in the semi-finals in Colombo on March 4. A final showdown, should both sides win their respective semis, remains an equally tantalising possibility.