In the ongoing T20 Cricket Tournament, arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been drawn into different groups for the Super Eight stage of the competition.
The two South Asian nations share a history of intense political rivalry and diplomatic friction, which often extends to the sporting arena, with both countries frequently declining to play matches on each other’s soil. In the opening round of this tournament, both teams competed in Group A. India advanced to the second round as the group leaders after securing victories in all four of their matches. Pakistan qualified in second place, with their only defeat in the group stage coming at the hands of India. Notably, this high-stakes encounter took place following extensive deliberations involving the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Sri Lanka, after the Pakistani government had initially considered boycotting the fixture.
For the Super Eight stage, Group A comprises co-hosts India, alongside Zimbabwe, the West Indies, and South Africa. Group B consists of Pakistan, co-hosts Sri Lanka, England, and New Zealand.
The Super Eight matches are scheduled to commence on the 21st of this month. Pakistan’s campaign in this round will begin against New Zealand, followed by a fixture against England, before concluding their group stage matches against Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka will open their Super Eight campaign against England.
India is set to start their Super Eight journey against South Africa. They will then face Zimbabwe, before playing their final group match against the West Indies.
The top two teams from each group, based on points earned, will progress to the semi-finals of the tournament.
