DUBAI, Feb 19 (Agencies): While most of the anticipated contenders reached the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup, Australia's early elimination emerged as the tournament's biggest surprise.
The West Indies were the first side to secure qualification for the next round, while Pakistan became the final team to book their place after defeating Namibia.
From Group A, India progressed in commanding fashion, winning all three of their matches against the United States, Namibia, and Pakistan.
Pakistan joined them in the Super 8s but had to wait until their final group match against Namibia, which they won comfortably on Wednesday, to confirm qualification. India play Netherlands in the last group match which is not of any consequence.
Group B produced a major twist, with hosts Sri Lanka advancing after claiming victories over Australia, Ireland, and Oman in their
opening three games. Zimbabwe, who stunned Australia earlier in the tournament, also moved through after their final league fixture against Ireland in Kandy was washed out. The shared points result knocked out the 2021 champions Australia.
In Group C, West Indies were dominant, securing four wins against Nepal, England, and Scotland and Italy on Thursday. England also progressed from the group, finishing their campaign with three victories.
Group D saw South Africa top the standings with four wins from four matches, advancing alongside New Zealand, who claimed three victories to finish second.
Which teams have qualified for the T20 World Cup Super Eight?
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, with the winner of each Super 8s
group facing the runner-up from the other. The final is slated on March 8.
Group 1:
India, Zimbabwe, South Africa and West Indies
Group 2:
Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and England
Will teams carry over their points and net run rates in the Super Eight?
Neither their points nor their net run rates will be carried over, giving each side a chance to start with a clean slate.
How do the Super Eight groups work?
Every team will play the other three teams once, and the top two teams at the end of the round of
matches will proceed to the semifinals.
As in the group stage, a win in the Super Eight will earn two points and a loss will earn none.
If a match is tied at the end of each team's 20 overs, a super over will be played until a result is determined.
What happens if it rains in a Super Eight match?
In case of poor weather, for a match to be considered completed, each team must play at least five overs each.
If the match is abandoned due to rain, both teams will walk away with a point apiece.
