Zimbabwe and the West Indies square off in a compelling Super Eights contest as two in-form sides look to strengthen their semifinal chances in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Match 44 at Mumbai brings together Zimbabwe’s fairytale run and West Indies’ power-packed dominance in what promises to be a tightly fought encounter.
Match details
Venue: Wankhede Stadium
Date: Monday, February 23, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, 1:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe have emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the tournament, producing consistent performances throughout the group stage. They opened their campaign with a convincing eight-wicket win over Oman and followed it up with a memorable 23-run victory against Australia. A rain-abandoned match against Ireland failed to halt their momentum, as Zimbabwe returned strongly to chase down 178 against Sri Lanka with six wickets in hand. Unbeaten in the group stage, their success has revolved around disciplined bowling and a dependable top order. Brian Bennett has played the anchor role effectively, while Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl have added momentum during the middle overs. Their pace unit, spearheaded by Blessing Muzarabani, has regularly struck at key moments.
West Indies
West Indies have looked equally commanding, topping their group with four comprehensive victories. They brushed aside Scotland, England, Nepal, and Italy with a combination of aggressive batting and controlled bowling. The batting unit has fired collectively, with Shai Hope providing stability at the top and Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell injecting power in the middle and death overs. Having already featured in Mumbai earlier in the tournament, the Caribbean side will feel confident about adjusting quickly to conditions at the Wankhede once again.
Key players
For Zimbabwe, Brian Bennett’s consistency at the top has set the tone for their innings, while Sikandar Raza continues to influence games with both bat and leadership. Blessing Muzarabani remains their standout bowler, using bounce and pace to trouble batters across phases.
West Indies will rely heavily on Shai Hope’s composure and form at the top of the order. The middle order, packed with power hitters, provides depth and flexibility, while the bowling unit has complemented the batting with timely breakthroughs.
Head-to-head record
Zimbabwe and West Indies have faced each other four times in T20 internationals. Zimbabwe have recorded 21 wins, while West Indies have won 13 matches, with one game ending in a tie or no result. The first-ever meeting took place on February 28, 2022, and the most recent fixture was played on October 19, 2022.
Pitch report
Six matches have been played at the Wankhede Stadium during the 2026 T20 World Cup so far. The average first-innings score has hovered around 160. Teams batting first have won three games, while chasing sides have secured two victories. Unlike its traditionally high-scoring IPL reputation, the surface has offered assistance to bowlers. Batters need time to settle before accelerating, making shot selection and patience crucial.
Probable match scenarios
If Zimbabwe bat first, they will aim to post a competitive total through steady top-order batting and calculated acceleration later. West Indies, while chasing, will back their explosive middle order to take advantage once the ball softens. If West Indies bat first, Zimbabwe’s bowlers will focus on early wickets to prevent the game from drifting away and keep the total within reach.
Probable playing XIs
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wicketkeeper), Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza (captain), Dion Myers, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Brad Evans, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani
West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope (wicketkeeper and captain), Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will be broadcast live on JioStar Network channels and streamed on the JioHotstar app and website.
In Pakistan, viewers can watch the match on PTV Sports and A Sports, with digital streaming available via official platforms.
In the United Kingdom, live coverage will be available on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Go.
In Australia, fans can stream the match live on Prime Video.
Global audiences can follow the action through official ICC broadcast partners and regional digital platforms carrying the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Match prediction
Both teams arrive unbeaten and full of confidence, which sets up a fascinating Super Eights clash. West Indies bring power and experience, while Zimbabwe rely on discipline and momentum. With conditions offering assistance to bowlers, the toss could play a decisive role. Based on recent trends at the venue, the team bowling first holds a slight advantage in this contest.
