Great former fast bowler of Pakistan wasim akram has shared his early predictions for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, naming four teams he believes have the strongest chances of reaching the semi-finals. Akram’s choice has sparked discussion among fans and experts alike, especially due to the absence of traditionally strong sides. England And Pakistan From his list.
Wasim Akram names top-4 teams for T20 World Cup 2026
India advised to proceed in domestic circumstances
According to NDTV, Akram feels this way India Will be at the forefront, mainly due to the advantage of familiar circumstances. India will jointly host the 2026 T20 World Cup Sri LankaDue to which Indian players get a clear understanding of the pitches, weather and playing patterns. According to Akram, India’s biggest strengths are their deep batting lineup and versatile spin attack, which are vital in subcontinent conditions. He believes that if India manages their workload well and field a settled XI, they can dominate the tournament from the early stages.
Australia’s nature comes to the fore in big matches
While discussing Australia, Akram highlighted their remarkable consistency in ICC tournaments. AustraliaHis history of performing well under pressure makes him a dangerous opponent in knockout competitions. Akram pointed out that Australian players are mentally strong, tactically disciplined and rarely get overwhelmed by high-risk scenarios. This calm approach, coupled with his power-packed batting and aggressive fast bowling options, makes him an almost automatic contender for the semi-finals in their view.
Also read: Rohit Sharma predicts the finalists of T20 World Cup 2026
South Africa’s balanced unit earns Akram’s trust
Akram also supported South AfricaGiven his steady rise in white-ball cricket over the last few years. He praised their balanced team, which blends exciting young talent with experienced campaigners. In particular, Akram believes that South Africa’s pace attack can be a major weapon, capable of destabilizing even the strongest batting lineup on any surface. He believes that if they maintain consistency and handle the difficult moments better, South Africa have a real chance of progressing in the tournament.
New Zealand labels silent artists
Akram’s list is getting completed new zealandWhom he described as a ‘silent artist’. Despite often flying under the radar, New Zealand has built a reputation for punching above its weight at global events. Akram praised his clarity in roles, sharp fielding and ability to adapt quickly to different situations. He believes these qualities make New Zealand serious semi-final contenders, even if they may not always attract the headlines.
Akram’s favorite group spotlight
Notably, India headline Group A, where they face arch-rivals Pakistan along with USA, Netherlands and Namibia. Australia have been drawn in Group B, facing co-hosts Sri Lanka as well as Ireland, Zimbabwe and Oman. Meanwhile, both South Africa and New Zealand have been drawn in Group D, making it a high-profile clash between them, with Afghanistan, UAE and Canada eliminated from their pool.
Also read: Jacques Kallis explains why South Africa have a real chance of winning the T20 World Cup 2026