Wasim Akram predicts T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finalists

Legendary former Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has shared his first predictions for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, naming four teams he believes have the greatest chance of making the semi-finals. Akram’s choices have sparked discussion among fans and pundits, particularly due to the absence of traditionally strong teams such as England And Pakistan from his list.

Wasim Akram names top 4 teams for T20 World Cup 2026

India should prosper in its domestic conditions

According to NDTV, Akram believes that India will be among the favorites, largely thanks to the advantage of familiar conditions. The T20 World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lankagiving Indian players a clear understanding of pitches, weather and patterns of play. According to Akram, India’s greatest strengths lie in their deep batting range and all-round attacks, both crucial in sub-continental conditions. He believes that if India manages their workload well and fields a well-established XI, they could dominate the tournament from the early stages.

Australia’s big-match temperament stands out

Speaking about Australia, Akram highlighted their remarkable consistency in ICC tournaments. Australia‘s history under pressure makes it a dangerous opponent in knockout competitions. Akram stressed that Australian players are mentally strong, tactically disciplined and rarely overwhelmed by high-stakes scenarios. This calm approach, combined with their power batting options and aggressive fast bowling, makes them, in his opinion, an almost automatic semi-final contender.

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South Africa’s balanced unity deserves Akram’s trust

Akram also supported South Africanoting their steady rise in white-ball cricket over recent years. He praised their balanced team, which combines experienced campaigners with exciting young talent. In particular, Akram believes South Africa’s fast-paced attack could be a major weapon, capable of destabilizing even the strongest batting line-ups on any surface. If they stay consistent and handle critical moments better, he believes South Africa have a real chance of going deeper in the tournament.

New Zealand has qualified mute artists

Akram’s list is completed by New Zealandwhom he described as “silent performers”. Although it often goes unnoticed, New Zealand has built a reputation for playing in the big leagues at world events. Akram admired the clarity of their roles, their precise alignment and their ability to adapt quickly to different conditions. He believes these qualities make New Zealand a serious semi-final contender, even if they don’t always attract the attention.

Spotlight on Akram’s choices

India notably tops Group A, where it will face its main rival, Pakistan, alongside the United States, the Netherlands and Namibia. Australia were placed in Group B, competing against co-hosts Sri Lanka, as well as Ireland, Zimbabwe and Oman. Meanwhile, South Africa and New Zealand were both drawn into Group D, sparking a high-profile clash between them, with Afghanistan, the United Arab Emirates and Canada completing their pool.

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