Former Pakistan speedster Mohammad Amir has once again stirred the pot with a bold and controversial forecast for the T20 World Cup 2026. Just days after his ‘slogger’ dig at Abhishek Sharma, a prediction that seemed to gain weight as the opener struggled with three consecutive ducks, Amir has now claimed that the defending champions and hosts, India, will fail to qualify for the semifinals.
Mohammad Amir explains why Suryakumar Yadav’s India won’t reach T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals
Speaking on the popular show ‘Haarna Mana Hai’, Amir suggested that India’s undefeated run in the group stages is a ‘mirage’ that will be exposed under the rising pressure of the Super 8s. Amir’s primary reason for backing India’s elimination centers on a perceived fragility in their batting lineup, particularly when faced with high-quality pace and movement.
Despite India finishing Group A with a perfect record, Amir pointed out that the team has relied far too heavily on individual brilliance rather than collective stability. He argued that except for the high-octane clash against Pakistan, the Indian batting unit has looked vulnerable and ‘collapsed’ in almost every game, often being rescued by the lower order or disciplined bowling. Using his full quotes to justify his skepticism, Amir stated:
“If you see their matches, the batting collapsed in all the games, barring the Pakistan contest. The pressure will rise in the Super 8 matches. The way in which South Africa and the West Indies have been playing, they can beat any team. I don’t think India will make it to the last four.” Amir said.
MOHD AMIR HAS PREDICTED THAT INDIA WON’T QUALIFY FOR THE WC SEMI FINAL 😭😭
We’ve already seen it before, the psychological impact of Amir’s statement on Abhishek Sharma.
Now It will be very difficult for India to reach the semis after this. pic.twitter.com/Tyx0v4goWY
— 𝐀. (@was_abdd) February 19, 2026
Also READ: Here’s why half of The Hundred teams might avoid signing Pakistani players in 2026
T20 World Cup 2026: India’s dominance in the group stage and roadmap for Super 8
Despite Amir’s grim outlook, India enters the next phase as the statistically dominant side of the tournament, having topped Group A with a flawless 4-0 record and a commanding net run rate of +2.500. The ‘Men in Blue’ navigated their group stage with professional ease, defeating the USA, Namibia and the Netherlands, alongside a marquee 61-run victory over arch-rivals Pakistan.
While the top order has faced criticism, the middle order, led by Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube, has shown remarkable depth, often recovering from early wobbles to post match-winning totals. However, as the tournament transitions from the league phase to the Super 8s, the margin for error has evaporated, and India finds themselves in a high-stakes Group 1 alongside perennial contenders and dark horses.
India’s journey to the final four begins with a massive clash against an unbeaten South Africa on February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, a match many consider a ‘litmus test’ for India’s title credentials. Following the opener, India will travel to Chennai to face Zimbabwe on February 26, a side that earned their spot by knocking out Australia and defeating co-hosts Sri Lanka. The group stage concludes with a high-voltage encounter against the West Indies at Eden Gardens on March 1. With three games in ten days across different conditions, India must balance their playing XI and address the ‘Abhishek Sharma slump’ to ensure they secure one of the top two spots and prove Amir’s ‘collapse’ theory wrong.
Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: R Ashwin reflects on India’s form, highlights bright signs before Super 8
