How can India qualifiy for semi-final of Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 after loss to South Africa?
(Courtesy : BCCI)
India suffered a disappointing loss to South Africa in their last game of Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
India’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 suffered a setback after a six-wicket defeat to South Africa in Manchester. Despite posting a competitive total, Harmanpreet Kaur’s side failed to defend it as Marizanne Kapp’s unbeaten 81 guided the Proteas to a record chase in the tournament.
The result left Group A wide open, leaving Australia as the leader. Net Run Rate could be a decisive criterion to clinch the second semifinal berth if two or more teams put up an equal number of points; India, South Africa, and Bangladesh are all still in the hunt with four points each.
The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side won against Pakistan and the Netherlands. But, loss to South Africa, have put them in a spot of bother as they have tough challenge ahead of them.
India women’s qualification scenario for semi-final of Women’s T20 World Cup 2026
India’s next Group A game is against Bangladesh on June 25 at Old Trafford before playing Australia at Lord’s on June 28. The top two teams of each group will advance to the semifinals, with the final two games being critical contests for Harmanpreet Kaur’s team.
Australia have six points and a net run rate of +4.391 in Group A as things currently stand. India sit at second spot with +2.511 NRR, and South Africa sit level but are at the back of India on their NRR (-0.546).
India’s fate is in their own hands. They need to win over Bangladesh and Australia and also hope that South Africa drop at least one point in their remaining games. This would guarantee them a place in top-two.
If India lose even one of their remaining two matches, and Australia and South Africa win their remaining matches, then the Women in Blue will miss the semi-finals. In that case, Australia and South Africa would be at the top of Group A.
When is India’s next match of the Women’s T20 World Cup?
India women will play next on June 25 against Bangladesh.
Are India out of the semi-final race?
No, India are not out of the race, they have two more matches which will decide their fate.
Where to watch the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026?
JioStar and Star Sports are streaming the ongoing ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India.
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Anubha Anandita Pathak is a sports enthusiast with a strong passion for cricket and basketball, shaped by her experience as a district-level basketball and kabaddi player. A loyal Golden State Warriors supporter, she closely follows Stephen Curry’s style of play. With on-ground reporting experience covering the Indian Super League and Karnataka’s hockey circuit, Anubha brings both perspective and passion to her storytelling.