The T20 World Cup 2026 group stage has delivered thrills beyond expectation, with smaller nations stealing the spotlight from cricket powerhouses. Hosted jointly by India and Sri Lanka, the tournament saw Zimbabwe clinch a Super 8 berth through sheer grit and tactical brilliance. Italy, in their debut appearance, left an indelible mark despite a single win. Afghanistan and USA also captivated fans with standout performances that punched above their weight.
Zimbabwe, under the astute leadership of Sikandar Raza, scripted two monumental upsets. They stunned pre-tournament favorites Australia by 23 runs in a match that knocked the Kangaroos out early. Not content with one scalp, they followed it up by defeating co-host Sri Lanka by six wickets in their final group game. This propelled them into the Super 8, a feat few predicted.
Zimbabwe’s batting lineup fired on all cylinders across four group matches. Brian Bennett emerged as a star, amassing 175 runs in three innings with consistent aggression. Captain Raza contributed crucially with both bat and ball, while pacer Blessing Muzarabani dominated with nine wickets in three games, sitting third on the tournament’s leading wicket-takers list. Their bowling attack dismantled oppositions repeatedly.
Italy, making their T20 World Cup debut, avoided any thrashings and notched a memorable 10-wicket rout of Nepal. Led by Harry Manenti, the brothers Justin and Anthony Mosca dazzled with their batting flair, etching their names in the tournament narrative.
The USA, though short of Super 8 qualification, began with a gritty challenge against India. Shadley van Schalkwyk’s 13 wickets in four matches highlighted their bowling prowess. They pushed Pakistan hard too, and better batting might have seen them advance further.
Afghanistan forced South Africa into two Super Overs in a historic clash, their batsmen shining brightly even as bowlers faltered. Nepal’s bold start against England showcased emerging talent on the global stage. These underdogs have redefined the tournament’s excitement.