3 times underdog teams advanced beyond group stage in T20 World Cup

The T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, is nearing the Super Eight stage, with seven teams already through. While Full Member nations often dominate global tournaments, underdog sides have occasionally stunned the cricketing world.

On three memorable occasions, the seemingly underpowered teams have progressed beyond the group stage, defying expectations on the big stage, with the latest being in the ongoing edition. CricTracker has a look at all three such instances today.

Here are 3 underdog teams who qualified for Super Eights in T20 World Cup history

1. Ireland: 2009

Ireland became the first Associate nation to move beyond the group stage in the 2009 edition. They were placed alongside India and Bangladesh and produced a stunning performance against Bangladesh in their opening match. Bangladesh posted 137/8, with Mashrafe Mortaza top-scoring with 33. Ireland’s Trent Johnson delivered an outstanding spell, picking up 3/20.

In reply, Ireland chased the target in 18.2 overs, with Neil O’Brien leading the way with 40 runs. Although they lost to India in their second game, Bangladesh’s defeat in both matches ensured Ireland’s qualification. However, they could not replicate their heroics in the next stage.

2. United States of America: 2024

The USA enjoyed a dream run in their maiden T20 World Cup appearance in 2024. They began with a seven-wicket win over Canada, chasing down 194 in 17.4 overs. Andries Gous scored 65, while Aaron Jones smashed a remarkable unbeaten 94 to seal the victory.

Their biggest statement came against Pakistan. After both sides finished on 159, the match went into a Super Over. The USA scored 18 in the tie-breaker and restricted Pakistan to 13, pulling off a historic upset. Though they could not dominate in the Super Eight stage, their campaign marked a significant milestone for Associate cricket.

3. Zimbabwe: 2026

In the ongoing 2026 edition, Zimbabwe have added their name to the list. Their victories over Oman and Australia along with an abandoned match against Ireland, secured their Super Eight qualification.

They beat Oman comfortably by eight wickets and later stunned Australia. Brian Bennett’s unbeaten 64 guided Zimbabwe to 169, and Blessing Muzarabani’s four-wicket haul restricted Australia despite Matt Renshaw’s 65. Zimbabwe now head into the Super Eight with momentum and belief, hoping to continue their impressive run.