India face West Indies in a virtual quarterfinal at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Sunday, with a semifinal spot on the line.
The reigning champions must win to stay alive, while West Indies can advance even if rain washes out the match due to their superior net run rate.
India bounced back strongly in their Super 8s campaign with a 72‑run win over Zimbabwe after losing to South Africa. West Indies, meanwhile, crushed Zimbabwe by 101 runs, giving them a net run rate of +1.791 compared to India’s ‑0.100. Both teams currently have two points, making this clash decisive.
If rain forces abandonment, both sides will finish with three points, but West Indies will qualify for the semifinals thanks to their stronger net run rate. India would be eliminated despite their recent win.
According to Accuweather, conditions in Kolkata are expected to remain clear. Temperatures will range between 24°C and 31°C, ensuring fans can expect a full match without weather interruptions.
South Africa have already qualified for the semifinals, while New Zealand secured their spot after Pakistan failed to improve their net run rate. The Group 1 topper will face New Zealand in the first semifinal, while the second‑placed team will meet England in the other semifinal.
India and West Indies share a long rivalry in T20Is. Out of 30 matches, India have won 19, West Indies 10, with one ending in no result. The Eden Gardens clash adds another chapter to this storied contest, with knockout stakes at their highest.
