India and West Indies face a virtual quarter-final in the final Super 8 match of the tournament, with a semi-final spot on the line. With both teams locked on two points, only a win at Eden Gardens will guarantee progression in the competition.
Match details
Venue: Eden Gardens
Date: Sunday, March 01, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM IST | 6:30 PM PST | 1:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
India entered the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as defending champions and clear favourites, but their Super 8 campaign has been a test of character. After cruising through the group stage with four wins, the Men in Blue suffered a heavy 76-run defeat against South Africa in their opening Super 8 fixture. That loss ended their long unbeaten run in T20 World Cups and placed immediate pressure on their remaining matches.
India responded in emphatic fashion by thrashing Zimbabwe by 72 runs, keeping their semi-final hopes alive. That victory showcased their batting depth and ability to rebound under pressure. However, consistency remains a concern, particularly against top-tier opposition. With net run rate not coming into play unless the match is abandoned, India know that only a win will secure qualification.
West Indies have looked like a revitalised side throughout the tournament. They progressed through the group stage unbeaten, including an impressive win over England, and began the Super 8 phase with a commanding 107-run victory against Zimbabwe. Although they fell to South Africa by nine wickets, their batting recovery after a collapse underlined the resilience that has defined their campaign.
For the Windies, this match represents an opportunity to re-establish themselves as genuine contenders on the global stage. They hold a net run rate advantage, but that will only matter if rain intervenes. A win, however, removes all doubt and sends them into the semi-finals on merit.
Key players
India will look towards Suryakumar Yadav, who has been one of their most consistent batters in the tournament with 213 runs. His ability to dominate the middle overs could prove decisive on a surface that rewards timing and placement. Ishan Kishan, with 214 runs, has also been crucial at the top, providing early momentum.
With the ball, Varun Chakaravarthy leads India’s attack. The mystery spinner has taken 11 wickets and ranks among the leading wicket-takers of the competition. His performance against a power-packed West Indies batting lineup could shape the contest.
For West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer stands out as their most reliable batter, scoring 221 runs and sitting among the top run-getters of the tournament. His six-hitting ability makes him a major threat, particularly at Eden Gardens. All-rounder Romario Shepherd adds balance with both bat and ball and holds the best individual bowling figures of the competition with 5 for 20. Spinner Gudakesh Motie, with 10 wickets at an economy of 7.75, has been their most effective bowler across matches.
Head-to-head record
India and West Indies share a competitive T20I rivalry. India have dominated several phases historically, but recent meetings favour the West Indies, who have won three of the last five T20Is between the sides. Notably, West Indies remain unbeaten against India in T20Is at Eden Gardens, adding an intriguing subplot to this high-stakes clash.
Pitch report
Eden Gardens traditionally offers a true batting surface with even bounce, especially under lights. Batters who play through the line can score freely, while spinners often find assistance as the ball grips in the middle overs. Given both teams average over 10 sixes per match in the tournament, a high-scoring encounter looks likely unless early swing or spin changes the pattern.
Probable playing XIs
India: Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy
West Indies: Brandon King, Johnson Charles, Shai Hope (wicketkeeper and captain), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Gudakesh Motie, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph
Probable match scenarios
If India bat first, they will aim to maximise the powerplay through Kishan and Sharma before allowing Suryakumar Yadav to control the middle overs. A total above par could put pressure on West Indies, given India’s bowling depth.
If West Indies bat first, their aggressive top order may look to attack early, with Hetmyer anchoring the innings. India will rely on spin in the middle overs to slow scoring and force errors.
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will be broadcast on official ICC partner television channels and streamed on the tournament’s authorised mobile apps and websites. Viewers in Pakistan can watch through licensed sports channels carrying ICC events and their digital platforms. In the UK, coverage will be available on approved sports television networks and streaming services. Australian audiences can follow the match via official ICC broadcast partners. Global viewers can access the game through authorised ICC television networks and digital streaming platforms.
Match prediction
India enter the contest as favourites on paper, but West Indies’ recent form against them and their power-hitting depth make this an evenly balanced clash. With both teams boasting explosive batting lineups, a high-scoring game appears likely. India’s experience in pressure situations may give them a narrow edge, but West Indies possess the firepower to cause an upset if they execute their plans effectively.