T20 World Cup 2026: What happens if rain washes out the India vs West Indies Super 8 match? Who advances to the semi-final?

T20 World Cup 2026: India have won the first of the two must-win games on Thursday when they defeated a sturdy Zimbabwe by 72 runs in Chennai. This victory by India and South Africa's commanding win over West Indies has simplified the equation for Suryakumar Yadav's men in the context that there is less likelihood of Net Run Rate deciding the top two teams of Group 1. An ideal result over the Windies on March 1 in Kolkata will take the Men-in-Blue to the semis.

What will happen if rain washes out India vs West Indies match?

However, as per the Weather update, there are chances that it may rain on Sunday in Kolkata. Therefore, as so many matches in the history of the game have been abandoned due to rain, what will happen if this one also goes down in the bracket?

As India and the West Indies have played two matches in the Super 8 stage and have won one apiece, carrying 2 points respectively, they are now left to play each other. The situation has made the March 1 contest a virtual knockout. This means the winner will without any halt proceed to the semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026.

However, if rain washes out the match, then the unwanted factor of Net Run Rate will come into the picture once again. India would want the rain gods to have mercy on the team as West Indies possess a superior NRR of +1.791. India made a stride towards recovery following the abysmal performance against South Africa, but their NRR is still poor. As per the updated points table, India's NRR is -0.100.

Hence, in case rain hampers play and the match ends in a no-contest, the points will be shared, and West Indies will proceed to the semifinal, owing to a better Net Run Rate. Notably, there is no reserve day for the match as that provision is only available for semifinals and finals.

There are chances but less likely to rain on Sunday

For now, the forecast is for sunny and clear weather in Kolkata on Sunday, March 1. The temperature is expected hover around 34 Degrees Celsius during the daytime, and it may decrease to 25-26 Degrees Celsius by the time the match gets underway. A clearer forecast will emerge on the day of the match.

Beating the West Indies would be a tough ask

The matchup against the West Indies will be an intriguing one as they have been nothing short of brilliant this tournament. Even in the game against South Africa, they showcased their perseverance and got to 176/8 in 20 overs despite reeling earlier at 83/7 in 13 overs. India, on the other hand, is still searching for that one convincing performance where they will topple the opponents in every department. However, one positive they will take away from the Zimbabwe match is that all the batters got runs.