India will face Zimbabwe in Match No. 48 of the Super Eight (Group A) in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on February 25 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. India topped their group in the initial stage, registering victories over Pakistan, Namibia, USA, and the Netherlands. However, they suffered a 76-run defeat against South Africa in their first Super Eight fixture in Ahmedabad, failing to chase down the target. The Men in Blue now find themselves in a must-win situation to remain in contention for a semi-final berth.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, entered the Super Eight as one of the surprise packages of the tournament. They remained unbeaten in the group stage, defeating Sri Lanka, Australia, and Oman. However, their momentum was halted by a heavy defeat against the West Indies in their Super Eight opener. They will be eager to bounce back strongly against India in Chennai.
Here are three Zimbabwe players to watch out for in Match No.48 of the T20 World Cup 2026:
Sikandar Raza
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza remains the backbone of the side. He has scored 102 runs in the tournament so far and picked up one wicket, but his overall impact goes beyond numbers. Raza’s highest score came against Sri Lanka, where he made 45, and he also delivered with the ball by returning figures of 1/17 against Oman. With the Chennai pitch expected to assist spinners, his four overs could play a crucial role.
Raza’s ability to vary his pace and extract turn may trouble India’s middle order at key stages. Overall, in 131 T20Is, he has scored 2985 runs and taken 103 wickets, underlining his value as a genuine all-rounder. He possesses the ability to change the course of a match quickly, making him one of Zimbabwe’s most important players in this must-win clash.
Brian Bennett
Opener Brian Bennett has been one of the standout performers of the tournament. The right-hander is in sublime form, having scored two half-centuries in three matches while remaining unbeaten in all three innings in the group stage. He began with a steady 48* against Oman, followed by impressive knocks of 64* against Australia and 63* against Sri Lanka.
His performances were instrumental in Zimbabwe’s shock victory over Australia, which ultimately knocked the former champions out of the tournament. Although he failed to replicate that form against the West Indies, Bennett’s ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when required makes him a key figure at the top of the order. A strong start from him will be essential against India’s potent bowling attack.
Blessing Muzarabani
Right-arm pacer Blessing Muzarabani has been equally influential with the ball. The tall fast bowler has claimed 10 wickets in four matches, using his pace, bounce, and disciplined lines to trouble batters. He began the tournament with figures of 3/16 against Oman and followed it up with a match-winning 4/17 against Australia.
Although he was slightly expensive against Sri Lanka and managed just one wicket against the West Indies at the Wankhede, Muzarabani’s ability to strike early remains crucial. His new-ball spell could set the tone for Zimbabwe’s bowling effort against India.
Zimbabwe squad for T20 World Cup 2026:
Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Bradley Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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